Make an offer in writing

Email the estate agent your offer, for proof in writing. This provides a clear record of your offer amount & the date you made it. If you are chain-free (all first time buyers) or are a cash buyer, put this in the email too as it will make your offer more attractive.

If there is a lot of competition & you want to make your offer look more attractive, consider attaching:

• A bank statement showing you have a deposit.
• A mortgage in principal, if you chose to get one.

This will prove you are a serious buyer, who is organised & has funds. You will also need to provide these as "proof of funds" to the estate agent soon after your offer anyway, so they can comply with anti-money laundering regulations.

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Know your rights

• Estate agents are legally obliged to show any offers to the seller. If you're worried they haven't, post your offer through the seller's door.
• It's illegal for estate agents to require you to talk to their recommended mortgage broker. The only proof they need of your finances is proof of your deposit, and a mortgage in principle. Get your mortgage broker to email the estate agent if they are being difficult.