[Siobhan Muntner]

Hi

Just wondering if anyone has any opinions on the real estate market, e.g. is it a worthwhile investment in London and who are the reputable agents in this field?

[Bluey]

Siobhan,

Like any query, the answer depends on the the research you undertake which unfortunately tends to contradict each other.

I always enjoy Private Eye's take on the property market. This satirical magazine publishes articles like

"Today, property experts have reported that the housing market will cool/ stay the same/rise in value. Home owners can therefore be satisfied that the value of their home will decline/stay the same/rise in value. Therefore, demand from buyers and vendors will decline/stay the same/increase."

This forum is the last place on earth I would seek investment advice. It's full of uninformed amateurs (myself included) and scammers.

Find specialist buy-to let- websites for advice or at least pop by the following forum.

http://www.landlordzone.co.uk/forums/

[Bluey]

Hi,

I assumed that you were only interested in buy to let as you used the word 'investment' but I realise you may mean the purchase of a property for personal use.

I am not sure that the words 'reputable' and 'agent' are mutually agreeable.

Remember that estate agents actually represent the vendor - their contract and interest is with them - not the buyer.

Bluey