Finding a property
As a tenant it is vital to choose a Landlord and/or letting agent that you can trust – you will be renting a home from them which is a big and long-term decision. The Hunters network of over 200 branches are trained under The Hunters Training Academy learning programmes which are endorsed by the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA PropertyMark). This means our agents operate under strict standards of professional and ethical practice. The majority of our branches are also voluntary members of safeagent (was NALS) and ARLA which offers further reassurance that you are in good hands.
We encourage our lettings agents to work towards their HNQ qualifications from our Hunters Training Academy as well as being members of safeagent (National Approved Letting Scheme) and ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents) reassuring you that your money is in safe hands. A rental valuation on your property will help determine the appropriate rent to charge your future tenants.

Think about the location you'd like to live in
- Near your preferred school catchment area
- Local amenities
- Recreational facilities
- Transportation: near bus stops, motorway access
- Near your workplace
Consider the 'must haves'
- Balcony
- Parking
- Garden
- En-suite
- Fast internet speeds
- Furnished or unfurnished
Ask what IS and/or ISN'T included - some white goods might be left at the property but ask your agent to make sure.
What is your budget?
- Most agents will have an income criteria as part of the referencing
- £rent pcm x 30 - would give you an approximate guide to what your annual salary should be in terms of affordability
- Where there are, for example, two people sharing a property which seems out of your original budget, it may well be more within your reach
How long do you need the rental for?
- Many landlords prefer a long-term tenant, so ask your agent what the current intentions are; on the flip side, some landlords prefer shorter agreements, so ask, just to make sure.
- Use your agent to negotiate around how lonf you will live there - taking into consideration your needs as well as those of the landlords.
When would you like to move in?
- Properties on the rental market can often be available to view around six to eight weeks before they are ready, so work to this timescale.
- Start your search as soon as you know you need to move, up to 8 weeks prior
- Most agents will register you as an applicant and keep you updated on new properties during this time.
You can begin your property search with the agent online, over the phone or in branch, but once you've discussed your needs and the agent narrows down the shortlist, the agent should then arrange a viewing appointment for you.
Hunters Top Tip
Make allowances for not just your rent each month but also for your energy, water and council tax bills. Plus your normal day to day living expenses.

Want to to start your property search?
Contact your local branch today!