Time for your next tenancy? Here's everything you need to consider 

Start your search 

Finding a letting agent is a good first step. They will be able to advise you on the entire process and keep you on the right path. Finding the right property can be a swift process or may take longer than anticipated. But, when you do find the right place, you will have the option of putting down a holding deposit. This is usually one week's rent and is refundable, and will help you make your move seamless and ensure you get the property you want. 

Book some viewings 

Getting out and seeing potential properties is important. It’s tempting to rush this process but when you're emailed a potential property, it’s a good idea to be ready to view it. On the other hand, you may decide to clear your calendar to book multiple viewings. Some homes will surpass expectations, while others may not. Calculating potential bills can create some pleasant surprises in more energy-efficient homes, so it is worthwhile checking the energy rating of your potential property. 

Moving out and moving in 

Communication and planning are key to a smooth move. Setting a moving-out date for your old place and a moving-in date for your new home on the same day is important. You don’t want to leave things to chance. Pin each party down to exact dates and times, then prepare your belongings and organise removal firms or ask your friends to help. Don’t forget to update your new address for the electoral register, your bank, and the DVLA. Then, inform your energy suppliers and take meter readings of what will become your previous address, and any other parties that need to know you are moving. 

Checking the inventory 

You should do this whether you are moving out or moving in. Paying attention to this process will help you get your deposit returned at the end of your tenancy. Don’t be afraid to be thorough. The inventory will give details on the condition of everything, from walls and ceilings to appliances. You will want to get your entire deposit back so cleaning your old home and leaving it as you found it is important. But, it is also important to check your new property as soon as you move in. 

Using an agent makes the paperwork so much easier 

The beauty of using an agent is that they can take care of your deposit, reference checks, and give you a clear understanding of your tenancy agreement. You don’t need an agent to place your deposit in a deposit protection scheme; however, having someone to guide you helps make the process more straightforward. Fully managed properties benefit from 24-hour maintenance support should any issues arise. A good lettings team is always easy to get in touch with to guide you before, after, and during your tenancy to help you in any way they can. 

Make your new place your own  

With a good letting agent on your side, you can concentrate on enjoying your new home. Adding the little details that make a home your own makes a big difference and you may decide to decorate. If you are organised and well ahead of time you can plan your new layout and discuss any plans you have for decorating with your agent before you move in. After you have handed back the keys to your old home and got your new keys, you know because you have used an agent that the property is compliant. When all the necessary paperwork is in order, your home is decorated nicely, and you know you are supported by your agent, you can relax and make the most of your new life.  

Are you looking for a fresh start? Get in touch with us to start your property journey.:

Looking for your perfect home? Here’s some top tips    

Even perfection can be improved and perhaps it is this that makes you want to move. What was once your ideal home has now become too small, lacking the location you truly love or maybe you just fancy a change for the better.  

A word about the market 

The good news is that moving conditions are favourable right now, which is why lots of homeowners are getting on the move. According to Rightmove, sales agreed were 13%* higher than the same time last year. Average house prices increased by 1.5% reflecting an 8%* increase in buyer demand compared to last year. With mortgages becoming cheaper, reasonable pricing, and strong equity levels, buying conditions are not imperfect. All of this puts you closer to finding your perfect property. 

Is the price right? 

If numbers aren’t important, congratulations. For most people, price is one of the biggest determining factors when buying. Combining favourable market conditions with strong levels of equity and homes priced at reasonable levels makes moving now very tempting. House prices are set at more normal levels thanks to the slowdown in the market last year. But this is a good thing because you will get more house for your money while having a great deposit for your perfect home, thanks to all that equity you have gained.  

Consider the location carefully   

You may already have your heart set on a specific location. The reasons you love it may vary, from the picturesque landscape to being close to family, work or transport links. But it’s important to keep a sense of adventure while searching for your perfect property. For example, being close to cycle paths or rivers and mountains may encourage hobbies you have previously put off pursuing. This is why moving is exciting and can change your life. In this sense, your perfect property can discover you. Looking in new locations can offer many pleasant surprises. 

Keep your mind open to potential 

Even if you watch all the home improvement programmes or are a well-seasoned property developer, it always pays to consider new ideas. That may involve stepping outside your comfort zone and trying a new buying approach. That could mean moving into a property that does not need a lot of work. Perhaps you want to make your home your own with the little details, or by investing in art, and opulent interiors. Maybe you are planning ahead and want to create a greener, more efficient home. 

The importance of viewings 

You may get a good feeling from your perfect property from the first kerb view image you see of it. On the other hand, appearances can be deceptive. Some properties can be misleading, like the two-bedroom terraced house with a hugely spacious and stunning garden. You never really know how you truly feel about a property until you step inside. Finding your ‘perfect’ home may involve multiple viewings, and making an inspired choice sometimes involves the input of loved ones and even a good agent. 

Get a good agent on your side 

Agents are not just there to make a commission, so use them as much as you can. Most pride themselves on providing a service that guides you in every aspect of your move. In many ways, agents are matchmakers, and sometimes a fresh perspective can give you real insights into what you are looking for. Use agents' market knowledge, contacts, experience, and input as much as you can. Ultimately, it’s your decision, but people who are ears deep in the property market year-round can make a massive difference in finding your perfect property. 

Contact us and allow your perfect property to find you:

Time for your next tenancy? Here's everything you need to consider 

Start your search 

Finding a letting agent is a good first step. They will be able to advise you on the entire process and keep you on the right path. Finding the right property can be a swift process or may take longer than anticipated. But, when you do find the right place, you will have the option of putting down a holding deposit. This is usually one week's rent and is refundable, and will help you make your move seamless and ensure you get the property you want. 

Book some viewings 

Getting out and seeing potential properties is important. It’s tempting to rush this process but when you're emailed a potential property, it’s a good idea to be ready to view it. On the other hand, you may decide to clear your calendar to book multiple viewings. Some homes will surpass expectations, while others may not. Calculating potential bills can create some pleasant surprises in more energy-efficient homes, so it is worthwhile checking the energy rating of your potential property. 

Moving out and moving in 

Communication and planning are key to a smooth move. Setting a moving-out date for your old place and a moving-in date for your new home on the same day is important. You don’t want to leave things to chance. Pin each party down to exact dates and times, then prepare your belongings and organise removal firms or ask your friends to help. Don’t forget to update your new address for the electoral register, your bank, and the DVLA. Then, inform your energy suppliers and take meter readings of what will become your previous address, and any other parties that need to know you are moving. 

Checking the inventory 

You should do this whether you are moving out or moving in. Paying attention to this process will help you get your deposit returned at the end of your tenancy. Don’t be afraid to be thorough. The inventory will give details on the condition of everything, from walls and ceilings to appliances. You will want to get your entire deposit back so cleaning your old home and leaving it as you found it is important. But, it is also important to check your new property as soon as you move in. 

Using an agent makes the paperwork so much easier 

The beauty of using an agent is that they can take care of your deposit, reference checks, and give you a clear understanding of your tenancy agreement. You don’t need an agent to place your deposit in a deposit protection scheme; however, having someone to guide you helps make the process more straightforward. Fully managed properties benefit from 24-hour maintenance support should any issues arise. A good lettings team is always easy to get in touch with to guide you before, after, and during your tenancy to help you in any way they can. 

Make your new place your own  

With a good letting agent on your side, you can concentrate on enjoying your new home. Adding the little details that make a home your own makes a big difference and you may decide to decorate. If you are organised and well ahead of time you can plan your new layout and discuss any plans you have for decorating with your agent before you move in. After you have handed back the keys to your old home and got your new keys, you know because you have used an agent that the property is compliant. When all the necessary paperwork is in order, your home is decorated nicely, and you know you are supported by your agent, you can relax and make the most of your new life.  

Are you looking for a fresh start? Get in touch with us to start your property journey:

Zoopla* 

When you’re a landlord, it can sometimes become difficult to manage properties as well as own them as you struggle to define your work-life balance. Many letting agents offer property management as a service to make your life as a landlord easier. In this article, we discuss the benefits of having property management in place and key points that need to be achieved when managing property. 

What is property management? 

Property management is the constant management and oversight of rental properties. When you’re a landlord, it can become difficult to manage all your properties, so we recommend having the support of a letting agent. Having the middleman in place allows a professional relationship to be maintained between the landlord and tenant, creating a pathway of clear communication. When managing property, you are regularly juggling multiple issues from different properties or tenants; this can range from maintenance problems to collecting late rent. 

Verify your tenants 

When managing a property, you need to discover the correct tenants that suit your property. Having assistance and support from a letting agent makes this process much simpler. To ensure you find the right tenants and that they are who they say they are, you will need to verify their income and identification before agreeing to a tenancy. It is important to check if your potential tenant has the right to rent in England and that they can supply references from previous landlords, helping you identify if they are the best fit for you and your property. 

Legal requirements 

When managing property, it is vital to ensure that the property is up-to-date with all the legal requirements before letting it out to tenants. 

This includes: 

• An energy performance certificate 
• Fitting smoke and carbon monoxide alarms 
• Gas and electrical safety certificates 
• Checking your insurance policies 

By having these requirements in place allows you to get your property on the market efficiently, reducing its vacant standing period. Having a good tenancy agreement is also an important part of being a property manager. The written agreement provides clear rules, preventing potential misunderstandings and conflict, all while allowing a professional relationship to be maintained. 

Establish a professional relationship 

When managing tenants, you need to ensure you maintain a professional relationship throughout your agreement, allowing you to deal with problems at face value and not have a bias towards or against your tenants. You want your tenants to be able to approach you with issues and have trust and respect within you all while maintaining good, clear communication. When you're a landlord, there's a chance it can become too personal with tenants, potentially breaking the professional relationship you are meant to maintain. This is why it is always good to hire a letting agent to provide this service, creating fewer complications. 

Regular property checks 

Once you have filled your property with tenants, it is vital to maintain regular inspections. This allows you to ensure they are caring for the property to your standard and meeting all their responsibilities as tenants. The regular checks allow you to identify any maintenance and safety issues throughout the property and give you the chance to discuss any issues with the current tenants. When performing these checks, you need to give the tenants notice and they should take place at three or four monthly intervals. 

Market trend updates 

When managing property, it is key to stay up-to-date and on top of what is happening within the rental market. This allows you to keep competitive rental rates, ensuring you adjust yours with the market and maintain happy tenants. This also allows you to stay up-to-date on certain requirements that may be needed in the future, giving you plenty of time to prepare and allowing you to keep your property constantly on the rental market. 

Discover a trusted letting agent 

As a landlord, it can become hard to manage all the different daily tasks of being a property manager, so it is important to find a trusted letting agent to help delegate these tasks. These tasks could involve collecting rent, finding tenants, conducting property checks, achieving legal certificates, and property maintenance. So having the help of a letting agent allows you, as a landlord, to focus on building your property portfolio and letting the agent complete the hard work for you. 

Contact us today for support on managing your rental property:

Zoopla*