this might sound a bit odd but do you think you are at a disadvantage by living in a different country to the one you are trying to publishe in?
For instance I live in Africa, my novel is based in the UK, and I'm approaching UK agents. It was suggested to me that I am at a disadvantage because UK agents might not want authors who don't live in the UK.
Any thoughts or experience on this?
While there are a few agents who prefer to only work with people in the UK, they are very much in the minority. I can think of more who've openly said they don't mind where an author lives than those who specify UK only.
The main issue I would have as a writer is market familiarity. If you are writing for the UK market, make sure you are up to date with what's being published in your genre (as well as what deals are being made).
A secondary issue I'd have is writing accurately. I read a book some time ago which was set in the UK but it was obvious the author wasn't British - the language was all wrong, basic lifestyle things were wrong (everybody drank coffee with cream, for instance). It may or may not matter, but it's something to think about. Try and find somebody British to do a read through to catch those type of errors.
Good luck.