Time-consuming, complex, stressful that's moving, which may account for the increasing number of buyers who are employing relocation agents to manage their home move for them.

Unlike estate agents who are employed by the seller, a relocation agent works on behalf of the buyer and, as a result, is able to offer an individually tailored service to match the client's requirements.

A good relocation agent can take care of everything from finding you a property and negotiating a price to organising interior designers and removal companies.

They can also deal with solicitors, surveyors and even mortgage lenders on your behalf, and many agencies have long contact lists of recommended companies to give that extra bit of peace of mind.

One of the main services provide by relocation agents are the home-finding services. Agents will spend time getting to know your exact requirements, not just for the house you want and the budget, but also for details such as the area, local schools or transport links.

Then, once they have an accurate picture of the home you are looking for, they will use their expertise to narrow down the search.

They will do all the leg-work for you, carrying out lots of viewings to weed out the unsuitable properties until they have a shortlist of properties for you to visit that hopefully match all the requirements on your wish list.

This really can save a lot of time and, once you have found that perfect property, the relocation agent can then step in and deal with the price negotiations on your behalf.

Relocation agents usually charge a fee of around 1.5 per cent (+VAT) of the purchase price of the home you are buying. And this could turn out to be a great investment as agents are often expert negotiators whose knowledge of the local property market helps them to maintain a strong bargaining position which could end up saving you a packet.

Once the sale is agreed, relocation agents are able to assist with the entire conveyancing process if the client wants.

Many also offer services to help the move itself go smoothly by arranging and overseeing the transfer of utilities, arranging removals, project management or even building and interior design, all of which can be particularly helpful if you are moving a long way or if you are short of time.

Moving house is a big investment, both financially and emotionally, and although some people enjoy the process of finding a property and organising the move, for everyone else anything that can reduce the stress levels is bound to be welcome.

For more information about relocation agents visit the Association of Relocation Professionals' website at www.relocationagents.com.