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.

Are you spending your time growing your portfolio, or simply running it? In this week's article, Katie explores the difference between being a landlord and being a property investor, and why shifting your focus from day-to-day management to long-term strategy could transform both your returns and your lifestyle.

A fresh coat of paint can help, but missing paperwork can delay a sale for months. Use August to prepare the information buyers and solicitors will need before an offer is agreed.

The rental market is still growing, but the way properties are managed has changed. August is a useful time for landlords to review tenancies, rent processes and record-keeping.