How to Choose the Best Letting Agent for Your Property

Letting agents often play a major role in finding the right tenants. Apart from letting services, they may also undertake property management.

While most property owners may prefer to appoint letting agents for managing their properties, some may also choose to undertake the task on their own. Letting agents may be of the following three kinds:

• Independent letting companies that operate in specific local areas.

• Letting companies which form a part of a larger chain and operate in diverse areas.

• Letting agents owned by estate agencies.

Aspects to consider while choosing letting agents

While choosing letting agents for your property, it is advisable to consider the following factors:

The impression of the firm

Property owners may gather information about a number of letting agents before choosing an appropriate one. It is advisable to check the advertising strategy, marketing literature, website and office of the agent. All these factors can provide an insight into the operations of the agent.

Recommendations

It is advisable to seek recommendations from people who may have employed letting agents for their properties. Personal recommendations can help you shortlist a few agents based on which a final decision may be made.

Experience

While selecting letting agents, it is important to consider the experience they have. It is advisable to select agents who have sufficient experience in dealing with properties that are similar to the ones owned by you. This can improve your chances of finding appropriate tenants. Many letting agents in Kent specialize in providing letting services for various types of property. You can choose a suitable agent that provides Kent property management services.

Professional association

Letting agents who possess membership of professional associations may be preferred. These agents adhere to the code of practice stated by the professional associations and are well aware about the various rules and regulations.

Services offered

Letting agents may offer various kinds of services. While some may only find tenants, others may offer to deal with others aspects like rent collection, preparation of rent agreement and running credit checks on tenants. Property owners may choose an agent according to their requirements.

Fees

Letting agents usually charge fees, which is some percentage of the rent you pay. It is advisable to look out for additional fees and tenant fees charged by the agents. These kinds of fees may put additional financial burden on the tenant and property owner.