Firstly, you can be sure you'll have access to the most recent listings possible. The listings published in newspapers are out of date as soon as the issue hits the stand, whereas with online listings, you can be sure you've got access to all the properties on offer right at that second. What's more, you may be the first to see a property that's been added - giving you a competitive advantage against all those other house/flat-hunters out there.

Secondly, using online listings means you can keep your search in one place - no faffing about with apps, papers, magazines etc. You know you've got all the information you need right there.

It's convenient, too, as with some listings offered by internet estate agents, you have the ability to book a viewing right there and then. There's no waiting around to call your bricks-and-mortar estate agent, or (more frustratingly) waiting for them to call you! You can check your diary, get it booked and then focus on other activities.

Utilising online listings generally gives you more information on each property as well. With newspaper listings, you may see one picture of the property; two if you're lucky. The same goes for magazines, or the listings used in bricks-and-mortar agents... However online listings for buildings, if they're of good quality, will offer you a range of images and likely far more detailed information on the property's features. Having lots of choice leaves you best-placed to make an informed decision, so this is a crucial benefit to online listings.