Increasingly, those in the know are leaving it to a professional Relocation Consultant to oversee the entire process of searching for and securing their rental home. In the current climate you need to act quickly to secure the house you wish to rent. Demand for rental property is at an all-time high, especially for houses and apartments in London and the South.
Although the rental market is highly competitive, it is still possible to find that ideal home if the search is carried out in a thorough, well-informed and realistic manner. By being realistic, some compromises may be necessary, but you should not settle for a property which is barely acceptable as you will need to live there for many months, if not years.
Research Rental Properties
Start by knowing which features are the most important to you. Before booking viewings, set in place key 'criteria' as well as areas for compromise. Knowing which things you are willing to be flexible on will aid the decision-making process and help you select properties to suit your specific needs.
You should not feel pressured into accepting a property that does not fit your standards or 'must-have' criteria. However, with the best properties being secured quickly, it is important to be able to make a swift and informed decision. Quick decisions are different to rushed decisions, which tend to be regretted later.
If you are moving to a new location, ensure you research the whole area including surroundings both driving around as well as walking so you get a real feel for it.
Here are 2 links which will help you to access general area information area and statitics.
How to Secure the Right Rental Property
The Lettings industry in the UK is unregulated. This means anyone can set up as a Letting Agent or Landlord, so look for Letting Agents who have the relevant professional affiliation, ideally members of the ARLA or National Approved Lettings Scheme (NALS) and The Property Ombudsman Scheme who all adhere to a strict code of conduct.
The same property may be advertised and marketed by several Letting Agents at the same time, so check the prices and details carefully. As soon as your offer is accepted you will be expected to pay a holding deposit and complete a reference form, if you wish to proceed with the rental.
Ascertain what is covered in your rental price and any responsibilities you will be expected to undertake. For example, is the garden maintained by you or the landlord? If there is a house alarm, who will be responsible for the cost of the maintenance? Who is the Managing Agent for the property when you have on-going maintenance issues? Once your tenancy has commenced you will have signed your tenancy agreement and you will also be provided with an Inventory detailing the condition of the property, this is an important document so make sure you check it carefully.
Premier Corporate Relocation Services have been securing rental properties for clients for many years. We are experienced in individual domestic moves as well as international relocations so whether you are a company in the process of moving a team, an HR Executive needing assistance or an individual looking for guidance with your company relocation, we can help.
For further information about how we can assist you in finding, acquiring or renting your new home please contact us by calling 01962 793100 or email enquiries@premier-propertysearch.co.uk.