Landlord guide
Everything you need to know...
We understand how important it is for landlords to have their properties occupied with quality tenants. We also appreciate that most want hassle free lets. Below is our guide to letting your property successfully.
1. How much rent will my property achieve?
Simply book an appointment with our lettings manager and we will carry out a FREE, no obligation rental valuation. This is the perfect opportunity for our lettings manager to advise you on all aspects of letting your property and details of all our services and fees. Contact the branch to book your valuation. You can also request a rental valuation online by clicking here.
2. Choosing the right agent
Always choose an estate agent that has a strong reputation. Remember agents are there to help you, not the other way round. Before we offer any of our services, we will always ask “How can we help you?”. Make sure the agent has tenants waiting, ready to view and demonstrates strong marketing methods for your property.
3. Creating the WOW factor
Although there is normally strong demand by tenants, it is advisable not to leave anything to chance. Make sure your property is presentable, particularly if it has been let out before. Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms. Once you have instructed Harvey Brooks we will put together an effective marketing and communication plan. This will include quality colour details and brochures that will be emailed and posted to pre-qualified potential tenants; plus promotion on our website and leading property portals. Your property will also be included in our new ‘Moving’ magazine, which is just one of our innovative marketing initiatives currently creating the Wow Factor.
4. Successful viewings
In most cases we will accompany the tenant to your property as we want to be on hand to answer any questions they may have. This normally results in a much quicker process and the property is let much sooner.
5. Agreeing a let
Once an applicant expresses an interest in a property, we will agree the key terms of the let (subject to contract). Namely the monthly rent, timescales, restrictions such as pets, smokers etc. and details of the security deposit.
6. The reference process
Harvey Brooks commission stringent referencing on any potential tenants. Typically this will include income verification, credit history and affordability checks.
7. Pre-completion checks
We will ensure all the necessary paperwork is undertaken including an inventory and condition report, the Tenancy Agreement, Energy Performance Certificate and a gas safety record. All of these can be arranged with our lettings manager.
8. Tenants move in
The tenants will attend our office in order to sign the Tenancy Agreement and pay the first month’s rent in advance, plus the security deposit. All tenants must sign a standing order to instruct their bank to pay the monthly rent in advance.
9. Post completion
Once the tenants have moved into your property we will forward to you a statement of account, a copy of the Tenancy Agreement and any other associated paperwork.
10. Property management
Full property management offers a number of advantages. If you would like us to act as your managing agent, you can rest assured that our professional property managers will deal with all issues that may arise on your behalf. Increasingly tenants are requesting managed properties as they appreciate the peace of mind.