Renting your first property can be very daunting as it may be your first time moving out of home or you may need to relocate for work so we are here for you at every step of the way.
We have put together a short guide for first time renters covering a few key points that you need to take into account.
If you would like some advice or to have a chat with one of our specialists then call or pop into your local branch.
You can also find out more information on the government's How To Rent: The Checklist For Renting In England.
What is your reason for moving, affordability & desired location.
Time Scales
Have a clear view of what your time scales are and any possible limitations, like current notice periods.
Research
Look at local letting agents websites and register for early property alerts. Talk to friends and colleagues who live in the area and check local information.
Visit a Letting Agent
At Lauristons we always welcome the opportunity to talk to all our customers so drop in for a coffee and a chat about the market anytime. Meet our team, talk through what you are trying to achieve and register with us.
Viewings
Make time to view all the properties that you're interested in. In the current market we are finding that some properties are reserved at the first viewing, so make sure you have your finances in place so you can secure the property quickly.
When you're at the viewing make sure you take the time to have a good look round. Check the water pressure, find out how the heating works, check the size of the fridge, etc. If you're viewing a property and the previous tenants are still living there, make sure you know what's included and what belongs to them.
Know how the property is managed
A number of landlords will leave the day to day management to the estate agent so they will deal with any maintenance issues on your behalf. Other landlords will manage the property themselves. It's good to know how your property is managed so you're aware of who to contact if there's a problem.
Income Protection and Content Insurance
It is worth discussing income protection & contents insurance with your Embrace Independent Financial Advisor at this point.
Viewings
View all relevant homes. In the current market we would suggest that you should be prepared to make decisions quickly as we are finding that some properties are reserved at the first viewing, this is when you pay your holding deposit.
Holding Deposit Receipt Forms
Complete these and return with original photographic identification and proof of address (e.g. utility bill)
Referencing
Your referencing will be processed taking approximately 7 working days and you will receive the terms agreed in writing. Lauristons will call you to discuss the outcome of the referencing.
Deposit and Tenancy Agreement
You will receive the tenancy agreement before the start of the tenancy and we must receive the balance security deposit and first months rent (less the holding deposit paid) in our bank account before the tenancy starts.
Tenancy
Once the agreement has been signed and the standing order set up you may collect the keys on the day your tenancy commences. Lauristons will send you a welcome pack with the Energy Performance certificate, the Landlords Gas safety certificate (if relevant), a guide to renting, your deposit certificate, contact details for your tenancy and any emergency contractors details.
Inspections
If the property you are renting is managed by Lauristons we will be carrying out property visits, otherwise the landlord may wish to carry out.
Renewals
At least two months prior to the end of your fixed term Lauristons will contact you to discuss your future plans.
Tenancy Renewal
This allows further commitment, planning and budgeting for another fixed term. The process replicates the start of the original tenancy.
Serving Notice
If you wish to serve notice please contact Lauristons as soon as possible.
Signing Paperwork
At Lauristons we use Docusign Digital Transaction Management to get most of our paperwork signed. Docusign is the global standard for digitally signing documents without ever having to print them out. It is legally recognised and documents can be received, read and signed from any device connected to the internet, anywhere in the world.
You will be sent an email when your paperwork is ready and with just a few clicks or taps you can open, review and sign your documents. The completed legal copy is returned when all parties have signed and completed their part.
For more information simply visit www.docusign.co.uk or speak to a member of the Lauristons team.
