Autumn may not be the first season that comes to mind when people think about moving, but it can be a surprisingly strong time to sell. Buyers who are still active at this stage of the year tend to be serious about completing before Christmas or the new year. With the right preparation, your home can stand out and attract motivated buyers even as the nights draw in.

If you’re house hunting, you’ve probably heard about a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) — sometimes called a Decision in Principle (DIP). It can feel reassuring to have one in your pocket, but it’s important to know what it really means. Important to know: it doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the mortgage.

Finding the right house to turn into your home and sanctuary isn’t an easy job, so before you start your search, consider these seven tips on how to find the perfect home.

When you think of the busiest time to sell a home, you might picture spring — fresh flowers, sunny gardens, and “For Sale” signs popping up everywhere. But here’s a little insider secret: Autumn can be some of the most successful months to sell your property.