Before you switch, do your research and look for an agent who is:
Local
Many corporate chains outsource their property management services to out-of-town contractors (although they don’t tell you this when pitching for your custom). We are a local, family-run letting agent and we are best placed to keep a close eye on your property and, if there’s an issue, we can be on-site in a jiffy.
Committed to working in your interest
An agent’s duty is to act in the landlords’ best interest to and to discharge the landlord’s duty towards the tenant. So look out for agents who are most knowledgeable in lettings laws and regulations, landlord and tenants duties and agents who comply with all regulations and ethical standards. There are many dodgy lettings agents out there so please be careful as to who you choose to represent you. We are regularly trained on the latest lettings laws and regulations by Belvoir & Compliance Matters and we uphold all professional standards through our membership of the Property Ombudsman and SafeAgent. Our lettings team are qualified to a level 3 ARLA/PropertyMark property qualifications in lettings and property management with our manager to a level 4 qualification.
Accessible
It will be easier to be a landlord and make a success of your investment if you go with an agent who is hands-on and easy to get in touch with. We work as a team in our office so that team members can cover each others’ work so that customers get good communications on the progress of their lettings or property management.
Committed to using local tradespeople
Local plumbers, electricians, and gas engineers will be more likely to work to a high standard as they have a reputation in the area to protect. Avoid agents who use contractors from further afield. We have a big database of trusted local tradesmen that we have built up over the last decade.
What does switching involve?
- Read through the contract you have with your agent.
Understand your notice period and any other restrictions you need to be aware of. Many landlords find it easiest to switch when a tenancy is ending or up for renewal, but it not absolutely necessary to wait if you are unhappy. You can change agents mid-tenancy.
- Contact us to instruct us.
We will advise you to serve notice in writing to your letting agent and to instruct your agent to release all tenancy documents – such as electrical and gas safety certificates and deposits – to us.
- We will liaise with your new agent to collect the documents
- We will notify your tenant about the change and give them our details for the rent payments and further property management
And that’s it! A few simple emails and you can be on the road to a less stressful, more successful landlord/letting agent relationship. We will keep a check to ensure all the right documentation arrives and you can rest easy.
