Are you thinking of moving?

If you're buying in a town you already know, then you'll have a good idea of which parts of it you'd rather avoid living in. However, if it's an area that's new to you, then make sure you do a lot of research. Asking the estate agents is not really very reliable as they have a vested interest in making a sale because of the commission they'll get from the seller.

Buy the local newspaper and read it thoroughly for a few weeks. This will give you a good idea of important things such as how the council runs its services, and the sort of complaints the locals have about the area. You'll also be able to gauge the crime levels (and in which parts of town they were committed).

In particular, if you're moving to a totally new area, then consider renting for six months so you have a chance to get to know your way around. Find out before you buy what transport, health care and school facilities are available.

You may not need these now, but you may in future if your circumstances change. Check out the shopping, entertainment and sports facilities. Are they adequate for your needs, or are you going to have to drive 25 miles to get to the nearest cinema? It's also a good idea to visit the property at different times and both on weekdays and weekends.

All these things will be considered by a future buyer of yours too. You may be prepared to put up with poor services and facilities just because you've fallen in love with the house you've looked at, but how many others will want to buy it from you when it comes to selling your home?

However the prices come from Land Registry documents, the information is often a month or two behind the actual sale dates.