A move often starts long before a property is officially listed. If selling within the next few months is becoming a realistic possibility, September is a good time to work out what needs to happen first.

Autumn activity is returning to the property market, but affordability continues to shape decisions. We look at the latest prices, buyer demand, mortgage figures and what they mean for movers.

If moving is starting to feel more realistic, September is a useful time to prepare. Understanding your budget, priorities and local property search now could make things much easier when the right home appears.

Hoping to be in your next home by Christmas? With property transactions taking months rather than weeks, October is the time to understand what’s realistic — and why it can still pay to get moving.