Views from the Old Loos

I think if you follow a few basic rules when considering an agent, you’re already on a positive path to choosing the right agent to get your property rented out to the right people, at the right price.

Go local

There’s a wide choice of agents in this area.

We have local branches of national estate agents, multi-office local agents and niche local agents with specific housing that could all look after your valued investment.

Each entity has its benefits and its downsides.

We would always recommend choosing an agent that knows the local area well.

Local agents will still market your property on the big websites, like Rightmove or OnTheMarket, but they will also have local connections, local tenants coming to the end of their tenancy and local people on their books waiting for a property, just like yours and be incredibly responsive.

I pride myself on my local knowledge and reputation, and am in the good position that I am on first name terms with the majority of my landlords.

I’m sure that these local, personal relationships are incredibly positive for the success of my business.

Fees are important but not the be all and end all

All agents fees vary and may or may not contain certain charges or costs. Lettings and sales agencies sometimes advertise their management fees but you should check to see whether they are exclusive or inclusive of VAT.

Ask to see what’s included in the management fee.

Try to get the prices for the whole shopping list of possible added extras that you are likely to incur during the period your property is being managed by an agent.

How does the agent market your property?

Check that once you sign on the dotted line, your property will be marketed in the most effective way.

A good managing agent will promote on a variety of website, such as Rightmove or OnTheMarket.com and of course, place a board outside your property.

A very good way to market properties is via social media, such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and a forward thinking agent will reassure you that your property will appear here.

We work closely with local newspapers, such as The News, to showcase a selection of available properties either in The Property Guide or on their website.

This is a great way to promote your property, so ask your prospective agent if they are willing to do this for you.

Trust word of mouth, testimonials and reviews

Listen to your friends, colleagues and read reviews.

We all know that you shouldn’t believe everything you read or hear about in the media but if your friends and colleagues recommend (or tell you to avoid!) certain lettings agents, then listen to their reasons and be informed.

Look at a lettings agent’s website for testimonials, check out their Facebook page for reviews and see what people are Tweeting about them.

Review your contract

Most lettings arrangements go very smoothly between an agent and a landlord. You should ask any agent that you are considering to provide a copy of their Ts & Cs and read them carefully.

If you’re unsure about any of the details, don’t be afraid to ask the agent for clarification.

I hope these five pointers are helpful to anyone looking for a lettings agent.

Of course, I am semi-biased and would say that Brewers The Lettings Agency should always be at the top of anyone’s list when looking for the perfect agent!

If you’re looking for an agent to manage your property or get it rented, feel free to contact us for advice.

We have a special offer where you can save £142.50 if you let out your property through us in May, so get in touch today.