Last week’s Times headline, “Virus prompts No 10 to suspend housing market,” may make you think you are stuck for the moment. However, there are things you can do now to make sure you are well placed to get the property you’re after when the lockdown is over, and the rental market gets moving again.
Doing your homework
Before you start searching for your new home, it’s best to start by looking at the numbers and working out what you can afford to spend. Working with a budget will make your search more focused and effective.
It’s then important to set criteria, which aspects are the most important to you and where are you prepared to compromise. Knowing the things you are willing to be flexible on will aid the decision-making process and help you select properties.
Online search
Armed with a budget and “wish list” you can start your online search. If looking on Rightmove or Zoopla (the two most popular property portals for property rentals) only consider the recent listings, the general web sites are not kept updated on a regular basis, and this may be more so at the moment due to the general business interruption everyone is facing. Most Letting Agents have taken videos of the properties being marketed for rent, so on-line visuals are easily accessible when requested.
If you are moving to a new town or city, use google maps to help you understand the area and its amenities better and pinpoint specific streets or areas which you would like to live in. Landlord engagement Many landlords and letting agents will be working from home at the moment and possibly have more time on their hands. If you can reach them, ask all the questions you want, to refine your search further.
The sort of things that are useful to clarify might include
• Is there a management agent?
• Is there a service charge?
• What is the security deposit?
• What is the length of the agreement and is there a break clause?
Once you have a shortlist, confirm your interest with agents and landlords to let them know you would like to arrange a viewing as soon as it is possible to do so. No-one knows when viewings will be feasible, but there are still things you can do to be one step ahead.
The rental market typically moves quickly so use this time to make sure you have everything you need when the time comes. You will ultimately be asked to provide details of your employer and income, your previous address, and bank details. You will also require proof of residency such as a council tax bill and ID in the form of a driving licence, passport and/or immigration check.
Because of the new Right to Rent Act, landlords are required to check that all tenants who occupy their properties have legal status to live in the UK. If moving from another rental property guidance on how to get your security deposit back can be found here.
For further information as to how Premier Property Search can assist with your Relocation needs contact Barbara on + 44 (0) 1962 793100, or email enquiries@premier-propertysearch.co.uk.