How to Choose a Letting Agent: 7 Questions You Need to Ask

Thu 22 Feb 2024

Working out how to choose a letting agent is an important decision. Your property is a valuable asset, and entrusting someone else to manage it for you isn't something to be taken lightly.

Working with an expert letting agent in St Helens can help save you time and even money. Plus, you can rest assured that you're managing your property in the right way and leaving yourself less open to risk.

If you're thinking about working with a letting agent, here are our tips on how to choose a letting agent in St Helens and the best questions to ask them before you commit.

Seven Questions to Ask Letting Agents About Rental Properties

So let's jump straight in with the seven key questions you must ask any letting agents, especially once you have a rental property in mind.

1. Are You Regulated?

One of the first things you need to check when speaking to a potential letting agent is whether they are registered as part of a government-approved letting agency redress scheme and the national approved letting scheme.

Working with an unregistered letting agent can result in fines for landlords, so it's always best to check.

2. Are You Part of a Client Money Protection Scheme?

Just like the previous question, you also want to ensure the agency is part of a client money protection scheme – particularly if they will be handling tenancy deposits and dealing with rent collection and other property management tasks.

3. What Are Your Fees?

Of course, asking about fees is a given. However, extra letting agent fees may only crop up in certain situations, or after property inspections.

For example, some letting agents charge a commission if you want to sell your property to a tenant in the future (since they introduced you and are therefore responsible for the sale).

When enquiring about fees, make sure you ask about all charges you could be liable to pay – not just the standard stuff. A professional letting agent should be completely transparent with these numbers, and that will allow you to compare letting agent fees, which is crucial for prospective tenants.

4. What Marketing Strategies Do You Use?

A good letting agent is always on the hunt for new ways to market their properties. Depending on who your target market is, modern forms of marketing (like blogging and social media) can be highly desirable.

Make sure you ask how your letting agent will market your property to see if it's the right fit for you. At Burns and Reid, we believe in a rounded approach to marketing, and are happy to discuss our process with you.

5. Do You Know the Local Area?

Naturally, having a local letting agent in St Helens has its benefits. Someone who knows the area well can market your property to potential tenants much more effectively.

Quiz the person you speak to about what's nearby and ask to see their published local area guides.

6. How Long Does it Take to Fill Vacancies?

Every landlord wants to fill voids as quickly as possible, but finding a good tenant usually takes time.

Regardless, a good letting agent will have the facts on the average time it takes them to fill vacancies, so make sure you ask for the figures.

Here at Burns and Reid, we are completely transparent with these figures, and you can speak with us about them at anytime.

7. What Are Your Opening Hours?

When your letting agent is available to talk is much more important than you might think. You need someone who can work around your lifestyle and be ready to answer your questions when you have time to speak.

While most letting agents in a local area have standard opening hours, some may be open or available out of hours, too. The Burns and Reid team work specific hours, but we are always willing to be available when called upon by our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Letting Agents in St Helens

What factors should I consider when selecting a letting agent, as a landlord?

When choosing a letting agent, consider their reputation, experience, and fees. Look for agents with positive reviews, a proven track record in your local area, and transparent fee structures.

Are there any regulatory requirements I should be aware of when hiring a letting agent in the UK?

Yes, ensure the letting agent is a member of a recognized redress scheme and complies with the law, such as deposit protection regulations. This helps safeguard your interests and those of your tenants.

How can I assess a letting agent's ability to find suitable tenants for my property?

Evaluate their marketing strategies, tenant screening processes, and vacancy fill rates. A reliable letting agent should have effective advertising methods and thorough tenant vetting procedures to secure quality tenants for your property.

What services do letting agents typically offer, and how do I choose the right level of service for my needs?

Letting agents offer various services, including tenant find, rent collection, and full management. Assess your preferences, time availability, and budget to determine which service level aligns best with your requirements as a landlord.

Enquire Today

At Burns and Reid, we are your local letting experts in St Helens. If you're thinking about working with a letting agent to help manage your property, our friendly team are happy to answer all your questions. When letting your property, the right tenant is a key element and we have the experience to find the right tenant for you. We use the latest software which automatically matches potential tenants to your property and emails the particulars to them.

Give us a call today on 01744 752898 to request a valuation, or email us on info@burnsandreid.co.uk