A late-night maintenance emergency showed Claire that the real cost of self-managing wasn't just the repair bill. In this week's article, Katie explores the hidden cost of let-only management, why full management offers more than convenience, and why so many landlords wish they'd made the switch sooner.

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.

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.