Lured by low letting fees?

With news that rental properties are greatly in demand, landlords must beware of being lured by low letting fees offered by some agents.

Mark Harris

Mark Harris, Lettings Manager at Callaways Estate & Lettings Agents in Hove says, “Like most things, you get what you pay for when it comes to letting your property.  Ensure that cut-price or discounted fees don’t mean discounted service which could lead to your ‘agent’ not being around when times get tough.”

Lettings comes with complex legislation which has to be adhered to professionally and knowledgeably.  The areas which your Agent should be able to advise on include (the list below is not exhaustive)

• Inventories
• EPC’s
• Gas Safety Certification
• Tenant Referencing
• Property Maintenance
• Guarantor/Guarantee Agreements

The Lettings business is heavy on resources, and if the agency tries to cut corners, be sure you won’t suffer in the short or long term as fee-cutting will eventually prove unprofitable unless it is off-set by cost savings.

What should you do when you choose your Letting Agent?

• do not base your choice on price alone
• consider the Agencies’ staff experience, professionalism and quality of service
• get recommendations from current clients
• check how they market and advertise their landlords’ properties

For more information on letting your property call Callaways on 01273-735237 or email info@callaways.co.uk