The Free Valuation / Appraisal

We will initially view the property to assess its rental value. At this point we will answer any questions you may have and determine the most suitable service to meet your requirements. We will also be able to make recommendations where necessary that could potentially increase the rental value of your property. Our advice at this point is completely free and aimed at making sure you have a firm understanding of all your obligations before proceeding to let your property.

Marketing the Property

Once you have decided to appoint us as your agent, one of our representatives will visit the property to take some internal and external photographs. We then use the photographs and the information we have collected to create an attractive advert to display whilst marketing your property.

In order to maximise property exposure, our website is updated daily and our properties are listed on market leading property portals.

Our highly trained and efficient staff will make sure that the best service is delivered to both the landlord and tenant.

Presenting the Property

As the lettings market becomes more and more competitive, it is important that the property is presented in the best way possible. Without this, the property could remain empty for longer, as well as affecting its rental value.

To help a rental property appeal to a wider market, we would suggest the following:

• Keep the colours in the property neutral
• Gardens must be kept maintained (when a tenant occupies the property, the maintenance of the garden becomes their responsibility)
• Keep the equipment provided and furnishings as contemporary as possible (can still basic)
• Check for any grouting issues in places such as the bathroom. Any mould issues here can really effect a prospective tenant’s decision to rent the property
• If the property is a flat with a communal entrance and hallway, make sure that for the benefit of all tenants that this area is kept tidy and clear of debris at all times
• Double glazing and gas central heating is another popular feature amongst prospective tenants
• In general, try to find and rectify any damages around the property that can be easily seen or experienced

Obtaining the Tenants and Referencing

Arguably the most important factor when letting the property is the prospective tenant. The whole success of letting depends on finding the right tenant. If an applicant wishes to proceed with a tenancy, we will assess their suitability.

The references aim to check that each tenant is creditworthy by for example checking for CCJ’s and arrears and obtaining employer, landlord and character references. Once references have been received, we will contact you to confirm the results of this and advise of the proposed checking in date.

All necessary legal paperwork, including an inventory (dependent on package) will be prepared and signed and any outstanding balances settled by the tenant before the tenancy commences.

Legislation & Legal Obligations for Landlords

Letting out a property is now heavily legislated and rightly so. Unless you are fully aware of the very latest legislations we would highly recommend you use an experienced agent. Ignorance is not an excuse when it comes to the laws of the land, so if you don’t want to leave yourself open to heavy fines or potentially much worse, a reputable agent is your next step.

Some Legislations to be aware of Include:

• Gas Safety Certification
• Right to Rent Checks on tenants
• Fire Safety Laws – Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
• Legionella Risk Assessments
• Electrical Safety Legislations
• Furniture Fire Safety Guidelines
• Tax Implications
• Overseas Landlords Tax Implications

If you let out a property, you as the landlord have a legal responsibility to act within the guidelines of the law. Failure to act within these guidelines is a serious offence and could lead to huge fines and criminal prosecution.