SELLING and buying property can be a life changing experience. It’s no doubt one of the biggest decisions you will ever have to make.

Unlike any other purchase, you’re not given 28 days to return it if you decide you don’t like it. Make a list of all your wants and needs for a new home. Obviously, you will have to set the budget for your purchase and roughly know the style you’re looking for and the amount of rooms needed.

Essentially the location is important, particularly with young children for school. Moving into the country may be ideal for us folk wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of town life but if the public transport is limited, who is going to run your teenage children to their social events? Instantly, your travel and fuel costs increase.

The size of the garden might matter to a keen gardener, but think - in the long term the upkeep of a large plot might become too demanding. Then again, settling for a small courtyard may prove frustrating for a growing family with a collection of pets and limited space for entertainment especially during the summer. The design in patio furniture available is excellent. Ranging from traditional hard wood styles to funky metal and glass. There is also an abundance of lighting and water features to choose from.

Land next to a property for parking or even the possibility of extending in future is a bonus. Parking vehicles safely is not only favourable to you but car insurance companies much prefer off-road parking. It’s also not much fun having to carry heavy shopping bags from half way down the street.

You’ve seen a house that has grabbed your attention in the estate agent’s window or in the paper, ring and ask for more details so you can tick off the pros and cons against your wish list. It saves time on your part and the vendors. There is nothing more disconcerting for a seller if viewers arrive half interested but thought they’d look anyway.

Staging your property to help it sell is simple, just use your common sense. Nobody wants to enter a dirty house, so clean it from top to bottom. Minimise your personal effects and clutter. Make the path through your house flow without obstruction. It’s comforting to know that a property has been cherished and cared for.

* Deveda Tann is an interior decor advisor and house doctor. She can be contacted at ‘deveda designs’. Tel: 01732 847147