Guide to lettings for landlords

We understand how important it is for landlords to have their properties occupied with quality tenants. We also appreciate that most want hassle free lets, so your investment can be profitably enjoyed. Below is our guide to letting out your property successfully.

1. How much rent will my property achieve?

   Simply book an appointment with one of our lettings centres and we will carry out a FREE, no obligation rental valuation. This is the perfect opportunity for one of our lettings managers to advise you on all aspects of letting your property and details of all our services and fees. Contact one of our letting centres to book your valuation. You can also request a rental valuation online by clicking here.

1. Choosing the right agent

   Always choose an estate agent that has a strong reputation, high street branches and credentials from recognised industry bodies. Remember agents are there to help you, not the other way round. Before we offer any of our services, we will always ask “How can we help you?”. Make sure the agent has tenants waiting, ready to view and demonstrates strong marketing methods for your property.

2. Creating the Wow Factor

   Although there is normally strong demand by tenants, it is advisable not to leave anything to chance. Make sure your property is presentable, particularly if it has been let out before. Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms. Once you have instructed Robinson Jackson we will put together an effective marketing and communication plan. This will include quality colour details and brochures that will be emailed and posted to pre-qualified potential tenants; plus promotion on our website and leading property portals. Your property will also be included in our new home magazine, which is just one of our innovative marketing initiatives currently creating the Wow Factor.

3. Successful Viewings

   In most cases we will accompany the tenant to your property as we want to be on hand to answer any questions they may have. This normally results in a much quicker process and the property is let much sooner.

4. Agreeing a let

   Once an applicant expresses an interest in a property, we will agree the key terms of the let. Namely the monthly rent, timescales, restrictions such as pets, smokers etc. and details of the security deposit. Once all the terms have been agreed we will then take a reservation and reference fee from the tenants.

5. The reference process

   Robinson Jackson commission stringent referencing on any potential tenants. Typically this will include an employment reference to ensure that the tenant’s income is sufficient to pay the rent. Full credit checks will also be obtained and a previous landlord’s reference (if applicable).

1. Pre-completion checks

   We will ensure all the necessary paperwork is undertaken including an Inventory report, the Tenancy Agreement, Energy Performance Certificate and gas safety certificate. All of this will be arranged at one of our letting centres by a lettings manager.

2. Tenants move in 

   The tenants will attend our office in order to sign the Tenancy Agreement and pay the first month’s rent in advance, plus the security deposit. This will be covered by the client protection scheme. All tenants must sign a standing order to instruct their bank to pay the monthly rent. We will also advise the tenants in respect of any insurances they should take out and utility services they will need to transfer into their name.

3. Post completion

   Once the tenants have moved into your property we will forward to you a statement of account, a copy of the Tenancy Agreement and any other associated paperwork.

4. Property management

   Full property management offers a number of advantages. If you would like us to act as your managing agent, you can rest assured that our professional property managers will deal with all issues that may arise on your behalf. Increasingly tenants are requesting managed properties as they want the peace of mind. For full details about the benefits of property management please click here.