What’s everyone up to today? Are you viewing properties, working on a refurb, doing the kids football run or having a lazy one? Tonight I’m off to the Co-op Arena after being invited by one of our lenders Together. It’s a good reminder that property isn’t just about deals and numbers. You build those relationships by turning up being straight with people and doing what you say. So drop a comment and tell us: 1. What are you up to today? 2. Which relationship has made the biggest difference to your property journey?

Most of you will buy a property that's empty, whether it's ready to let or needs some work before tenants move in. Something worth being aware of is that not all unoccupied property insurance provides the same level of cover. Some policies offer very basic protection, sometimes limited to fire, lightning, explosion and aircraft damage, which does not give you any real protection! Depending on the policy, you could be missing cover for: Storm damage, Flood damage or Theft or malicious damage. When getting quotes, don't just compare the price. Ask whether Full Cover or Enhanced Cover is available. It might cost a little more, but could make a big difference if something goes wrong. Also, pay attention to the policy conditions. Some insurers require regular inspections, additional security measures or other precautions whilst the property is empty. Every insurer is different, so it's important to understand exactly what you're covered for. The cheapest policy isn't always the best value! When buying an empty property, do you normally arrange a basic policy or look for wider cover?

I said there’s only 2 months left of the year. Don’t be the person who gets to January saying you’ll finally start then. What’s the one thing you can do this week that you’ve been putting off? A call, viewing, offer, setting up that meeting, looking at how much equity you can release whatever it is put it below and get it done this week.

A seller we have bought from previously has come back to us with a flat in Wakey he currently leases to a provider who has given him notice. We saw it 2 years ago and there are 55 years left on the lease. He wants us to confirm by Monday if we want it so he can go back to the provider and confirm the termination. He has also told us the valuation he has been given by a “we buy any house” company which makes us think there is wiggle room. Before we make an offer our ideal plan is to see the flat when we get back from holiday and find out the cost to extend the lease as going in blind would be a huge no…and the lease extension would impact the back end remortgage. We’ve always stayed away from flats and ideally would rather own the freehold but we feel there could be an opportunity here. Is there anything else we should be looking out for when buying leasehold? Cheers

How’s everyone’s week been? What’s one thing you’ve got done this week that moves you closer to where you want to be no matter how small? Drop it below. It’s easy to focus on what hasn’t happened but progress is progress.