Make the right choice of agent the first time round

Leaders have experienced a spate of landlords coming to them for help in recent months after being let down by their letting agent.

Many of them chose the agent based on a cheap fee offer or special deal, but then received a less than satisfactory – or in some cases alarmingly poor – service, causing them to regret their decision.

Says Leaders’ Croydon senior branch manager, Rachael Board:

“Naturally landlords want to keep their costs down, but the choice of agent should never be based purely on fees. Other vital factors also need to be considered, such as the agent’s experience, professionalism, knowledge of the law, training, qualifications and resources for property management.”
             
Leaders point out that many estate agents offer a letting service as well as sales, but not all are qualified or experienced in lettings, or have the in-house resources to look after their clients and rented properties properly.

“There are fundamental difference between selling and letting a property,” explains Rachael. “Selling is a one-off transaction which takes place over a short period of time, whereas letting is an ongoing process – often for the long-term – during which time various issues are bound to arise. Time, training and knowledge of the many rules and regulations are required to deal with these issues correctly, otherwise landlords can experience major problems as they are ultimately liable for the actions – or inactions – of their agent.

“As well as being a member of a professional body such as ARLA or RICS, your letting agent should have Client Money Protection, qualified staff, many years experience and ideally specialise purely in lettings.”

For advice you can trust on all aspects of renting or letting in

Croydon please contact Leaders:

Croydon Central: 020 8686 7941

East Croydon - 020 8680 9444

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ENDS