We have done both. Over the past 2 decades we have moved a lot - averaging every 3-4 years. We have just started the next chapter moving to South Wales.
We found lots of properties ticking our needs including 2 which I found were also being sold (one via mumsnet and the other when turning up today!). This information was not forthcoming despite me querying about rental length and I have found that estate agents tend to be ruder and generally are not forthcoming with information. I generally get the feeling of being looked down on. This could be projection but when examining my objective experience I do feel there has been a noticeable difference.
On one property today that we all loved it was only when we got there was there a for sale sign. When I rang the EA and couldn't get through to rental (another issue - find I can get through for sale a lot more quickly) I selected to be put through to sales. The demeanor was completely different and straight away when asking why the property was being advertised as rental they reassured me it was short term (they tvpuggt I was a potential buyer) but then when I spoke with the rental team last week and asked about rental length, they didn't give me a straight answer?
I feel annoyed that there is a palpable difference in attitude, release of information and general communication.
What's peoples thoughts? Anyone got any insight? Or have you had similar experiences?