By David Lawrenson

When it comes to selling property, people really can do the strangest things and incredible meanness and downright stupidity is often the order of the day. And, this is especially true when it comes to fixtures and fittings.

According to the Halifax, 4% of vendors remove the number plate, 8% remove all light bulbs and 26% remove plants.

There have been many cases where the sale of property valued in the millions nearly falls through because someone wants to charge £1,000 for an item that is only worth £50. Sales have regularly come unstuck over carpets and even pot plants.

It's enough to make even an estate agent weep -and lose all faith in human nature.