They do say it will keep falling this year, maybe 5%. So it might be good to buy end of the year… however the negative forecasts may also mean there are less buyers out there – so may be some bargains around! Personally I would start looking once you have the deposit, look at a lot of places and get a good idea of value and if a bargain comes up you'll be ready.
Don't worry about looking like a cheapskate, agents have heard cheeky offers all before and all the best investors haggle! It's not about the starting price (asking price), but more about how it compares with other properties on the market and how motivated they are to sell. The "price" is only set when the sale occurs. Look out for signs of a highly motivated seller (needs to sell as has bought elsewhere, is in financial strife, has had property for sale for ages and wants to get out, or is getting divorced!) as this can be a sign you can start negotiating at a lower price, especially if you know your finances are in order for a straightforward sale.
