DAA Residential comments in the London Property Magazine January 2012 – What should I look for when choosing a Letting Agent?

When looking to rent your apartment there are a few key points to consider when choosing your letting agent?

  • Is the agent ARLA registered? By using a Licensed ARLA agent you are guaranteed you will be consulting with a qualified ( either by formal qualification or by many years of professional body membership) and trained agent who can give you professional and up to date advice and guidance. You will be dealing with an agent who voluntarily follows the Code of Practice and Rules of Conduct laid down by their professional body. Your agent has Professional Indemnity and you have a route to redress should something go wrong.
  • How long has your agent been trading? An established company should have the experience and knowledge of the area to be able to give you an accurate guide on rental price.
  • Is the agent enthusiastic? Visit their office or talk to them on the phone. Look at the way the office is presented and see if they offer properties similar to your own. See how they interact with you. If they appear enthusiastic about your property they will be the same when they are talking to potential tenant’s.
  • Ask how and where they will be marketing your property. Good quality marketing should include professional photographs and extensive portal coverage to include rightmove and findaproperty.amongst others.
  • Read the reviews and testimonials online of previous customers, speak to the staff and see if they are professional, honest and work with integrity. Monitor their website and see just how active they are in the market place – this will give you an indication of how fast they will secure you a tenant.

Ultimately the decision you make will be influenced by a number of factors, but if the Letting Agent you use has demonstrated professionalism, ARLA membership and shows honesty and integrity when dealing with your initial research, then you know that your property will be let and well managed.

Dirk Dette

Lettings Consultant

Property Turbine