Choosing a letting agent

Finding a reputable and reliable letting agent

It is always advisable to choose a letting agent who is a member of a professional organisation, such as the Association of Residential Letting Agents, the National Association of Estate Agents or the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. All are bound by a code of practice. You can search for a letting agent right now on PrimeLocation.

Personal recommendation is a good way to find a suitable letting agency. Ask for advice from someone you know who has experience of dealing with local agents.

The extent of the services may vary from agent to agent and much will depend on what your own requirements are. For example, do you just want an agent to find you a tenant, or do you want an agent to manage the whole term of the rental agreement from start to finish?

The majority of letting agencies will offer both letting and full management services, but talk to several and negotiate and understand their terms before deciding which agent or agents to instruct. Make sure you know which services you are getting and what you're paying for, either as part of a package or as extras.

As most letting agents operate on a 'no let, no fee' basis, appoint more than one agent to increase the chance of letting your property (some agents charge a fee to have a property included on their list). It is important to remember that agents offering low charges are not necessarily the best agents to use. Opt for those who provide a comprehensive service and can demonstrate success in the local market. Choose a letting agent which lets properties similar to yours, and which you think would attract the right kind of tenant with suitable references and achieve the highest possible rental price.

Provide your letting agent with as much information as possible about the type of tenant you want. Stipulate whether you want a young professional or married couple, a personal or a corporate let, and whether you are looking for a long term tenant. Landlords benefit by having long term tenants as it excludes voids (periods when the property is empty).