Updating post from Reddit.
Hi everyone,
I’m a first-time landlord planning to rent out my one-bedroom flat in the Purley/South Croydon area while I work abroad for a couple of years.
I’m looking for recommendations on finding a decent lettings agent who’s reliable, communicative, and knows the local market well.
Also, what key questions should I ask agents when interviewing them? Are there any important things I should consider as a new landlord, especially since I won’t be in the UK during the tenancy?
Thanks in advance for any tips or experiences you can share!
Use OpenRent and do it yourself. It’s really not as hard as people will have you believe and every agent I’ve ever used has been awful
but school leavers need jobs lol
IF you live nearby to collect rent and manage the property in case there is, say, a friday afternoon emergency (had that and she got her network to come over and temp plug it till the next week).
My first agent turned out to be right ol' a-hole, but my current one is the best (Well the quit and her colleague took over). Guess how much the monthly charge is for full management? Clue: Unheard of...
I have a house that I rent out in South Croydon, off pampisford road. I use open rent and have never used an agent. Been doing this since 2021 ever since I became an accidental landlord and so far have been happy with my decision.
The area is luckily in a place where rental property is in good demand so I never have issues in finding a tenant. This is my second tenant now in.
Happy to help.
Don't waste your time money on an agent.
Do it yourself, it's easy, and is much more efficient than any agency, they don't actually do anything to save you time.
Maybe you can manage it for them?
I charge 10% monthly rent.
"while I work abroad" = use an agent. I would go for the big guys with a high street presence in the locality. If you have a normal mortgage you may need consent to let from them. Does the council require the property to be licensed. Does your lease prohibit lettings. Gas/Elec certs. Insurance for contents.
Can I rent I’m actively looking for something for next month and I’m not far