15
May
LANDLORDS...HOW DO YOU KNOW YOU HAVE PICKED THE RIGHT AGENT?
With the sales market continuing to struggle more and more
homeowners are turning to renting out their properties until the
market picks up.
So how will you know that your beloved home is being looked after
while its being rented?
Well the answers simple!....PICK THE RIGHT AGENT!
Here’s how;
Does the agent have a good reputation and do they receive good
reviews? Recommendations speak louder than any amount of
advertising so do some research, find out what other people thought
of their service or ask to see references.
How long has the agent been in business? Are they well
established? A well established business is peace of mind to
tenants and landlords alike. It will also mean that they know the
area, the market and will be able to value your property
realistically.
Independent or chain? Well this is entirely dependent on what
you prefer. But a good agent, whether they are independent or chain
should offer a fantastic service, comply to letting legislation and
offer great internet coverage for your property. Just because a
business may be independent doesn’t mean that they are not
dominate in the lettings market.
Ask what services the agent offers and ensure you pick the right
service for your needs.
If you pick a fully managed service does the agent include
property inspections? If so do they do them regularly? Property
inspections on fully managed properties are vital – you need
to know that your property is being looked after.
Where will the agent advertise your property? Your property
needs to be noticed to be let. The right marketing strategies
should be used by your agent to give the property maximum exposure.
These days Newspaper advertising may not be essential, but internet
advertising most certainly is!
How much will the agent charge you? This can vary from agent to
agent so do some research on this. But remember cheap isn’t
always the best option! Look for companies which offer great
service and reasonable fees.
If your tenant doesn’t pay their rent what is the
agent’s procedure? You need to know this as unfortunately
most landlords rely on this rent to pay the mortgage. You need to
be sure that the agent will act promptly to resolve the situation
quickly.
Is the agent a member of a deposit protection scheme? This is
now the law so ensure that they are sticking to the lettings
legislation
Are they a member of any organisations that promote good business
practise and letting legislation? This is not a legal requirement,
but if a agent is a member of UKALA or ARLA it’s that extra
piece of mind for yourself and your tenants.
The above is a good selection of questions that you should ask
an agent.
We at Newlife Lettings, Farnborough expect to be asked all of
the above questions, and more.
We feel that landlords should be sure in their decision when
choosing a letting agent, after all your trusting us with the most
valuable thing you will ever own.
So why not call us and give us the twenty questions, we will be
glad to answer them honestly and truthfully.