DIARY
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.I am flicking through Country Life's fantasy house ads because I am contemplating a change of scene. But dealing with estate agents these days is a sobering experience. Please, I find myself praying, practice your selling techniques on me. I phoned one to make an appointment to view a converted coach house with paddock. "Do you know the area? Have you visited the village? Do you like the local schools? I must point out that part of the Downs can be very cold," warned a battle-hardened voice.
"No; that's why I want to view it," I replied.
"We suggest that before you see the house you spend time driving around the area," he said tartly. There then followed an inquisition: was our house up for sale (well, no, we needed to find something we liked), and had we had it recently valued, since prices had changed (he meant dropped) radically. I hung up, defeated.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments