Working out how to choose a letting agent in Bolton & Bury 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 can help save you time and 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 Bolton & Bury and the best questions to ask them before you commit.
Seven Questions to Ask Letting Agents About Rental Properties
Let’s jump straight in with the seven key questions you must ask when thinking about how to choose a letting agent.
1. Are You Regulated?
One of the first things you need to check when choosing a 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.
Cardwells is regulated by The Property Ombudsman and are also ARLA Propertymark members.
2. Are You Part of a Client Money Protection Scheme?
Just like the previous question, you also want to ensure the letting 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.
Cardwells subscribe to the CMP Scheme. This a scheme that reimburses landlords and tenants should a letting agent misappropriate their rent, deposit or other client funds. CMP is mandatory for every company that acts as an agency in property which handles client money or uses a third party to oversee client money.
3. What Are Your Fees?
Of course, asking about fees is a given and it’s a question we expect you to ask. A standard fee as a percentage of the rental income will usually apply. 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 will be completely transparent with these numbers, and that will allow you to compare agents which is crucial.
We offer a full range of lettings services from tenant finding to full management. Please get in touch with us for full details of our services and fees.
Read about our Fully Managed Property Service
Find out about our Tenant Finder Service
Learn more about our Tenant Finder & Rent Collection Service
4. What Marketing Strategies Do You Use?
A good letting agent is always on the hunt for new ways to market rental properties and attract tenants. Depending on who your target market is, modern forms of marketing (like blogging and social media) can be highly effective.
Make sure you ask how your letting agent will market your property to see if it’s the right fit for you. At Cardwells Estate Agents, we believe in a rounded approach to marketing, and are happy to discuss our process with you.
You can follow us on Facebook here
5. Do You Know the Local Area?
Naturally, having a local letting agent in Bolton & Bury has its benefits. Someone who knows the area well can market your property to potential tenants much more effectively.
Cardwells is very active in the local community!
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.
At Cardwells Estate Agents, we are completely transparent with these figures, and you can speak with us about them at 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 Cardwells team do work specific hours, but we are always willing to be available when called upon by our clients.
What Next?
Still wondering how to choose a letting agent? At Cardwells Estate Agents, we are your local letting experts in Bolton & Bury. 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.
Cardwells Estate Agents Bolton and Cardwells Estate Agents Bury are available if you would like an up to date rental property valuation. We can provide an accurate valuation of your property for free.
Simply complete the form here and we will be in touch promptly, or call our experienced team on 01204 381281 or 0161 761 1215 and request a valuation today.
Selling and renting property in this area since 1982, Cardwells are the market leading estate agents in Bolton and Bury. We are here to work for you.
Cardwells Estate Agents Bolton
01204 381281
[email protected]
Cardwells Estate Agents Bury
01617611215
[email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Choose A Letting Agent in Bolton & Bury
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 recognised 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.
