Owning your own home

Ring your solicitors every 48 hours for an update chat.

If you are the most annoying customer they will sort you out first. There will always be someone else who nags more than you unless you try to be that person.

This is an extremely valuable piece of advice, because it then allows you to go into the office and ask: "Why are you avoiding my calls?"

Alternatively, try and deal with the sales or branch manager. Better still, if they're using a "deal chaser" deal with them solely. Don't bother with the agent any more.