This week, the EDP asked if we could shed some light on the mysterious world of a mortgage lender's valuer (In 150 words). Unlike a building survey or homebuyers report, unless something goes wrong, most buyers will have zero contact with their mortgage companies appointed valuer, you usually won't even get a copy of the report. So how do they come to their opinion of the value? Will they tell you if the place is falling down? Why do they sometimes not visit at all? Click here for a glimpse behind the wizards curtain...

Want to extend your home, or a property that you are planning to buy? Here's how to do it without having to submit a planning application. Permitted development rights enable homeowners to make certain building works on a property without planning permission from the local council and without approval from a neighbour.