Viewing and securing a property
The rental market moves fast so if you see the perfect property with an Agent, you have to act quickly to secure it. Arrange a viewing, or multiple viewings, as soon as you can and try to view properties in quick succession so it’s easier to make a decision.
Hunters top tips for viewings: ask lots of questions!
- Space: does it meet your needs? Will your furniture fit or does it have the furnishings you need? What about storage?
- Parking: does it come with a parking space or garage? Does the parking space cost more on top of the rent? Do you need a permit?
- Decor: you won't necessarily be able to re-paint without permission, so does it match your preferences? Also ask about putting up pictures/mirrors - are there existing hooks for these?
- Ask about mobile phone reception, cable/ satellite dish, broadband availability and electrical sockets
- Who is looking after the tenancy once someone moves in? Is it the agent or the landlord?
- If you like the property and are considering renting it, ask about any works being done (or not done) before someone moves in. If there is something you'd like doing before moving in, ask if it is a possibility as this will help you make your final decision.
Making a decision & making an offer
Choosing and securing your property of choice can sometimes be a competitive business, so it is best to tell the landlord/agent that you are interested as soon as you are ready. Provide as much information as possible to speed things up:
- Are you paying the advertised rental amount?
- When do you want to move in?
- How long do you want to sign up for?
- How many people will be living there?
- Do you have any pets?
- What is your employment status?
Hunters top tip for securing a property
Once you have found the right flat or house, you’ll need to put a holding deposit down to state your intention and show good faith, this will be equal to 1 weeks rent.
You should be able to check the website and branch for a list of all potential charges & terms. Before you move in, you will most likely have to pay the first month’s rent and a deposit so make sure you have cleared funds available.
The Landlord/Agent will need to carry out checks on key pieces of information to make sure the property is affordable for you; they must also cover off various legal requirements. To speed this along, be prepared with relevant documents such as a form of identification and confirmation of your address. The Agent will ask for proof of your “Right to Rent” under the Immigration Act (England ony).
Your Agent at this point should also make sure you are aware of certain “terms and conditions” as well as useful information to read through so you know exactly what is happening. You should be provided with the following:
- Draft Tenancy Agreement - Gives you a good opportunity to read through what the final contract will say.
- Deposit Scheme Infromation - All deposits must be registered in a Government approved scheme - the agent should give you a leaflet relating to this.
- Confirmation of payment you have made so far and information on what the next steps are.
Want to find your perfect rental property?
Start browsing our property's To Let