22 December 2023
Quick Tips for those looking to rent a property in 2024
Prepare: Think about when you want to move and the areas you want to rent in. Take a good look at your search area and the properties in your price range.
Spend time drawing up a clear budget on your monthly outgoings and remember to include council tax, utility bills and consider moving costs. It’s also worth making a list of letting agents and check out their reviews online. Work with an agent who will make the process run smoothly for you and make those agents aware of your search criteria.
Viewings: The chances are you’ll look at a few different places, in fact by doing so you will gauge what you like and what is a definite no. It’s worth having your phone to hand to take photographs of the positives and negatives of each property, this will help you decide.
Act: When you have found a property you want to rent, act quickly. Good properties get snapped up so be decisive and submit your application quickly, ensuring forms are fully completed so they can be discussed with the landlord.
References: To proceed with a tenancy, the letting agent will need to carry out some reference and financial checks. Along with identification such as a photo ID, national insurance and Right to Rent checks. It’s always worth informing your employer and personal referees in advance the letting agent will be getting in touch as this helps speed up the process.
Tenancy Agreement: Once your references have been successfully processed you will be asked to read and sign the written tenancy agreement. This exists to protect both you and your landlord and if you do not understand anything within your tenancy pack please ask. Reputable agencies want both parties to be happy and clear about their obligations under the tenancy.
You will also be required to pay a deposit which the agent is legally bound to put into a tenancy deposit scheme. This scheme makes sure you’ll get your deposit back when you move out if you looked after the property and paid your rent. You will also be given suppliers’ details for water, electricity, gas and council tax. In most cases it is up to you to deal with suppliers direct throughout your tenancy.
Make a ‘to do’ list: Prepare a list of everything you need to do to help the move go smoothly, such as giving the correct notice period to your current landlord or letting agent, plan ahead and book removals or van rental, arrange mail redirection. Do let us know your letting needs, call 01743 277069 or email paulawells@balfours.co.uk
