Researching and choosing a lettings agent

The first thing to do is look at lettings agency websites and major portals like Rightmove and OnTheMarket.com to see what rental prices properties (similar to yours) are being let for in your area.

It’s also important to understand the responsibilities of being a landlord, whether you are planning to manage the property yourself or let it through a professional lettings agency. You can find a guide on renting out your property from the government here, with information on repairs, rent increases and paying tax.

haart also have a guide to the Tenancy Fees Act which gives you everything you need to know on the policy changes, to read more click here.  

Get an up-to-date valuation

The next step is to get an up-to-date valuation of your property.  haart can offer you a free, no obligation valuation that will give you an accurate value and information about what steps you could take to sell your home for the best price for you.

Let haart help

haart will provide a free, up-to-date valuation, carried out by a member of our team of fully-trained professionals. We will show you the marketing we can provide and our expert local knowledge of the property market in your area.  haart has the tech to get it seen and the people to get it let.

haart prides itself in being transparent with our customers.  You can look at the haart website to see how many properties haart is letting in your area compared to other agents.  We listen to your requirements and provide solutions to help them let your property.  We can set up open house events, accompanied viewings or set times for viewings. 

Our off and online marketing techniques include:

• Advertising on portals Rightmove and OnTheMarket.com including a Rightmove Premium Listing as standard 
• Social media
• Email campaigns
• Property alerts through email or SMS
• Enhanced marketing like FLINK – a unique program that uses clever tech to find the people who are most likely to be looking for a property like yours

How to choose the right letting agent

Choose an agency that will achieve the best possible price for you, but it is also important to ensure the agency you use:

• Understands the local area and rental prices.
• Has proven marketing methods to get your property let in a time frame to suit you.
• Has registered tenants looking for a property like yours in your area.
• Has convenient opening hours for you to be able to contact them, but also to maximise on times of days potential tenants can view the property.
• Will promote your property on their website and major portals (such as Rightmove and OnTheMarket.com).
• Engages in a variety of marketing methods such as social media, email campaigns, SMS and local PR opportunities.
• Takes high quality images and writes detailed property descriptions to generate as much interest as possible in the property. 
• Has a dedicated Property Management Service to look after your property.
• Will organise the government required Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) on your behalf. This needs to be arranged before your property can be marketed.

How do I rent out my property?

haart can help you every step of the way. From getting your property legally ready to rent out, to finding the best tenants, we can support you with our expert advice.

• Weigh up the costs

Before you decide to let out your home or any property, make sure it is financially viable for you. Any rental income you receive will be taxed at 20% if you are basic rate taxpayer, and 40% if you are a higher-rate taxpayer. Take into account any tax deductions as well as letting agent fees. The net figure remaining must cover the mortgage payments on your property and also some spare money that can be used to maintain the property.

• Tell your mortgage provider

Failing to tell your mortgage lender that you are letting your property could mean you are breaking the terms of your mortgage contract, so make sure you request this. Normally you apply for something called a ‘consent for lease’ from your lender before you can get started.

• Arrange a landlord insurance policy

Landlord insurance can protect your property, your tenants and your investment. Some policies also pay out if your tenants miss rent payments as well as if there is damage done to your property. If you have current buildings and contents insurance, make sure that your provider knows of your intention to let your property, as these policies may need to be amended. Failing to do so could void your policy. At haart, we can help you organise this and at a fair price too.

Questions for us about letting your property? contact us.

Ready to learn more about letting? Read Part 2 The different letting options

About haart

haart is the UK's largest independent estate agent. Every year, haart helps tens of thousands of people buy, sell, let or rent their home through its network of over 100 branches.

haart is committed to providing the very highest levels of customer service and as such is a leading member of both The Property Ombudsman and the Association of Residential Lettings Agents.

Thinking of selling your property? Read our guide How to Sell Your Property