Managing your Agent.

TIPS ON GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR AGENT Make sure you know what you are getting. Whether it is full management or Tenant find only, ensure you are clear with the terms of the agreement you are entering into from the outset. For information on the difference between the services, see Let only Managed or Rent Collection.

The importance and value of good documentation covering your arrangement with the Agent cannot be emphasised enough. This makes both parties intentions clear from the outset and minimises the possibility of dispute further down the line. And, if there is a dispute, the contract will clearly show who is in the right and will allow that party to take legal action and be able to present good evidence to support their claim.

Make sure there is written documentation covering your relationship with the Letting Agent. In some cases, agents rely solely on their terms and conditions (which they may or may not ask you to sign). Make sure there is proper documentation in place which makes both your and the agent’s obligations clear.

Ensure that your initial requirements are documented and that you have a copy. All too often there are disputes that the tenancy was not executed as the landlord instructed. For you to be able to rely on any wrong-doing of the agent, you will need evidence to demonstrate this. Your requirements should clearly list exactly what you are looking for and this may include (but not be limited to) the following: the initial length of the tenancy, the minimum rental income you are willing to accept, the type of tenant(s) you want and don’t want (professional, housing benefit, student, etc), Tenants with (out) pets, smokers or non-smokers, how much rent you want in advance, how much deposit you want etc.

When signing the agreement ensure that it contains clauses you are happy with and covers everything it should. Some basic points to check:-