Working out how to choose a letting agent is an important decision. Your property is a valuable asset, and entrusting someone else to manage it for you isn’t something to be taken lightly.
Working with an expert letting agent in Peterborough can help save you time and money. Plus, you can rest assured that you’re managing your property in the right way and leaving yourself less open to risk.
If you’re a landlord thinking about working with a letting agent, we have collated our best tips for you, so that you know exactly how to choose a letting agent in Peterborough. Our vast knowledge of the rental market means that we know all the important questions you should be asking before you commit.
Seven Questions to Ask Letting Agents About Rental Properties
So let’s jump straight in with the seven key questions you must ask any letting agents, especially once you have a rental property in mind.
1. Are You Regulated?
One of the first things you need to check when speaking to a potential letting agent is whether they are registered as part of a government-approved letting agency redress scheme and the national approved letting scheme.
Working with an unregistered letting agent can result in fines for landlords, so it’s always best to check.
PTL Lettings are ARLA Propertymark Accredited, so you know that your rental property will always be in safe hands.
2. Are You Part of a Client Money Protection Scheme?
Just like the previous question, you also want to ensure the agency you choose is part of a client money protection scheme – particularly if they will be handling tenancy deposits and dealing with rent collection and other property management tasks for you.
PTL Lettings protect our clients money – we are members of a government approved deposit scheme.
3. What Are Your Fees?
Of course, asking about fees is a given. It’s a question the PTL lettings team expect to be asked! However, letting agent fees will vary. We deal with every landlord independently to ensure we meet their individual needs.
We offer services from tenant find to full management, so it’s always best to speak with us for a detailed insight into everything we offer.
When enquiring about fees with any letting agent, do make sure you ask about any extra charges you could be liable to pay – not just the standard stuff. A professional letting agent will be completely transparent with these numbers, and that will allow you to compare letting agents, which is crucial.
As a part of our services we can offer all of the following:
- Gas Safety Checks
- Inspection Services
- Fully referenced tenants
- Secure Tenancy Deposit Scheme
- Selective licensing
- Free advice on how to comply with licensing regulations and how to make the home safe to rent.
Contact us for a chat for further information.
4. What Marketing Strategies Do You Use?
A good letting agent in Peterborough is always on the hunt for new ways to market their rental properties. Depending on who your target market is, more modern forms of marketing (like blogging and social media) can be highly effective.
Make sure you ask how your letting agent will market your property to see if it’s the right fit for you.
At PTL Lettings, we believe in a rounded approach to marketing. We market all properties on the portals, offer virtual tours and viewings, add regular informative blog content to our website, and you can find us on social media including Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). We will be more than happy to discuss our marketing process with you.
5. How Well Do You Know the Local Area?
Naturally, having a local letting agent in Peterborough like PTL Lettings has its benefits! An agency like us that knows the area well can market your rental property to potential tenants much more effectively.
When speaking with agents, ask any questions you may have about the local area and make sure they can answer knowledgeably.
The PTL Lettings team have vast knowledge of the local rental market and with over 35 years of experience in lettings, we are confident in what we do!
6. How Long Does it Take to Fill Vacancies?
We understand that every landlord wants to fill voids as quickly as possible, but finding the right tenant can sometimes take a little time.
Regardless, a good letting agent will have the facts on the average time it takes them to fill vacancies, so make sure you ask for the figures.
Here at PTL Lettings, we are completely transparent with these figures, and you can speak with us about them at anytime.
7. What Are Your Opening Hours?
When your letting agent is available to talk is much more important than you might think. You need someone who can work around your lifestyle and be ready to answer your questions when you have time to speak.
While most letting agents in the local area will have standard opening hours, some may be open or available out of hours, too. The PTL Lettings team are always willing to be available when called upon by our clients.
What Next? Enquire Today
At PTL Lettings, we are your local letting agents in Peterborough. If you’re thinking about working with an agent to help manage your property, our friendly team are happy to answer all your questions.
Call us today on 01733 555183 or email us at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Choose A Letting Agent in Peterborough
What factors should I consider when selecting a letting agent as a landlord?
When choosing a letting agent, consider their reputation, experience, and fees. Look for agents with positive reviews, a proven track record in your local area, and transparent fee structures.
Are there any regulatory requirements I should be aware of when hiring a letting agent in the UK?
Yes, ensure the letting agent is a member of a recognised redress scheme and complies with the law, such as deposit protection regulations. This helps safeguard your interests and those of your tenants.
How can I assess a letting agent’s ability to find suitable tenants for my property?
Evaluate their marketing strategies, tenant screening processes, and vacancy fill rates. A reliable letting agent should have effective advertising methods and thorough tenant vetting procedures to secure quality tenants for your property.
What services do letting agents typically offer, and how do I choose the right level of service for my needs?
Letting agents offer various services, including tenant find, rent collection, and full management. Assess your preferences, time availability, and budget to determine which service level aligns best with your requirements as a landlord.
