Looking to rent a new home? Whether you’re a novice or it’s just been a while since last time, these simple steps will help you land there safely.
1. Use trusted estate agents
You might not own the property you are moving to, but it should still be your perfect home – or as close to it as you can get. So, take your search seriously by making full use of all the free listing
services agents make available via their own websites.
2. Make contact with lettings agents
But it’s not all about online. Presenting your criteria and
establishing a personal rapport with local lettings agents
could put you at the front of the queue when an ideal home
comes up for rent. They’re people after all, just like you!
3. Be ready to jump
When you’ve found your perfect rental home, make sure you are ready to jump and seal the deal. You’ll also have to be ready with your paperwork, so dig out your passport as well as recent bills which show your current address. Lettings agents or landlords will contact your employer to check you earn what you say you do,
so be prepared for this too. They should also contact your bank to make extra certain you’re able to meet the rental obligations. It might not be required, but getting a glowing reference from your current or previous landlord and presenting it upfront won’t do any harm, especially if there are several tenants all vying for the same
property. Finally, make sure you are aware of any notice you need
to give on your current rental contract. That way you can present a fixed move-in date which will stand you in good stead.
4. Be prepared
Costs associated with renting a home can be surprisingly expensive if you’re not careful. You’ll need to be able to lay
your hands on a deposit which is usually equivalent to one
month’s rent. You’ll need to pay this sum in addition to the first month’s rent up front. So if you’re not careful this can make a big
dent in your bank balance. Your deposit is, in effect, your money held by the lettings agent or landlord for the duration of the lease term / tenancy. You should make sure that at the beginning of the tenancy you have checked the condition of the property and agreed it with the agent – a bit like when you hire a car – check for dents, scratches etc and ensure that you aren’t then liable for these when your lease ends.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
A good lettings agent is there to help you. They have the knowledge, the expertise and should be able to guide you through the entire process from start to finish. If you’re not sure of anything,
don’t be afraid to ask them. Understanding your obligations from the start is such an important part of letting a property, of making
sure you’re happy in your new home.
Tim Groves
Black Grace Cowley
tim@blackgracecowley.com
(01624) 645555
