The first thing to remember is that there is no such thing as a property that won't let, its a question of getting the price right. That being the case, you will want to achieve the best return from your property investment. Christian Harper of Chiswick lettings agent
OliverFinn shares some top tips.
"Obtain at least three valuations from different lettings agents. Do not just go for the highest valuation as some agents price high to justify their high fees. Once they have your business, a few weeks later they will get back to you looking to reduce the price.
You only get one opportunity to create a great first impression. Ensure your chosen agent uses an experienced professional photographer, produces a detailed floor plan, and publishes an attractive downloadable PDF
brochure for your property.
In our opinion if your agent turns up with their own ‘point and shoot’ camera or does not provide a floor plan, they are just interested in making as much money as possible from you. This attitude will be consistent throughout the whole lettings process.
Choose an agent that is prepared to invest time and money in your property right from the start.
* Up to 97% of all tenants who rent a property initiate their search via an online portal, rather than from a passing glance into a shop window.
* Your chosen agent should upload all properties to all the major property websites. If they do not upload every property, you’re chances of success are being compromised by their cost savings.
* Continually review your own property on websites to ensure that it remains competitive. Put yourself in the position of your prospective tenants. Would you rent your property or does another one look better?
* Ask your agent to recommend an Energy Performance Certificate (
EPC) surveyor who they know and trust. You will need to have the Certificate in place before commencing marketing. These are valid for ten years.
* Ensure your property looks its absolute best for all viewings. Just as if you were selling your car, you would wash it before a buyer arrives.
Ensure that you have a relationship of trust with your agent. You should be able to take honest advice about marketing and price without threatening to change agents.
If the phone stops ringing ask yourself 'Do I need to reduce the price'? Most agents will try their best to give correct pricing advice however markets change and there are always surprises.
Related article: You have decided to let your property - so what next?
