1. Get the cleaning gloves on! It may sound obvious, but a prospective tenant might easily be put off by a dirty kitchen worktop, and certainly by an unclean bathroom. We all have various intolerances to sights and smells. So grab the rubber gloves and pay attention to those areas taht you would expect to be spotlessly clean in your own home. Kitchens and bathrooms should sparkle! Make sure that tiles and work surfaces are gleaming, and don’t forget the grouting too. If you have door frames and staircases, make sure that these have been wiped or dusted also.
2. Lighting up your property. Lighting can make or break a room – so make the most of mood lighting. Open your curtains for extra light during the day (and the windows too) – and ensure that evening lighting is warm and welcoming. Tenants want to feel at home, and that the house embraces them. Make it appropriate for each room as far as possible – bright and airy in the kitchen and bathroom… and perhaps a little more subdued in the living room and bedrooms.
3. Leaks. A prospective tenant can spot a leaking tap a mile off – and they want to be reassured that you pay attention to those little details. Fix those dripping taps and faucets, and if possible get some new modern ones which can bring a kitchen or bathroom up to date quickly. Do also check that your waste pipes inside and outside the property are serviced and working correctly. Unblock any drains.
4. Clear the clutter. Try to keep rooms as clear of clutter as possible – such as packing boxes, tools etc. If you can, then it’s a good idea to store the excess equipment outside of the premises.
5. Smells. Be aware of unwanted smells. Supermarkets are teeming with various smells, potions and other smellies. Make the use of pot pourri or air fresheners to avoid smells of damp, stuffiness or pets. These are inexpensive, and yet make all the difference.
6. Brighten up the place with a coat of paint. If your budget can stretch to it… then do not underestimate the power of a good lick of paint. The interior and exterior will instantly look more appealing, fresher, and cleaner for potential tenants. Do remove all old flakes or fungus before applying though, to ensure that it lasts longer. Certainly do paint any nicotine stained ceilings and walls with bright white emulsion to give a bright and clean impression.
7. Keep it neutral. Those deep purple walls with bright green carpet may have been your favourite thing at one time – but tastes vary widely. So give all walls a lick of paint in a pale neutral colour, and the same goes for carpets. Keep your floor coverings simple and plain wherever possible. Potential tenants want to be able to see their own mark on the place – so don’t deprive them of that opportunity
8. Presentation is everything. Dress your home to impress. A vase of fresh flowers in the communal areas… a bowl of fruit in the kitchen. Little touches like this can bring your property to life – making people want to live in your property
9. Don’t forget the outside areas. If your property has a garden, keep it as well maintained as possible… pathways should be kept weed-free, and watch those overgrowing shrubs. Keep lawns cut back alongside pathways and driveways.
10. Check, double check, and triple check. Don’t forget to give your property a good going over before somebody comes for a viewing. First impressions count for everything – so don’t miss the opportunity to present your property at its very best

As property prices have generally fallen in these areas of high development and in particular for certain types of property, new landlords or further landlord purchases of these properties will generally keep rental prices subdued as theoretically the rent achieved now will achieve a better rental yield than those who purchased at the peak of 2006/2007.

The view across the whole market is that unfortunately due to the economic situation we are seeing a high demand for property that will accept benefits.  No two situations are the same and tenants who are receiving benefits can be an attractive benefit to landlords.  With some tenants eligible for council backed deposits or assisted placements meaning the risk can be minimised.  Together with a guarantor these types of tenants are not always the initial “no” we have seen in the past from landlords who have realised an opportunity exists.

We are also seeing a number of situations where tenants have sold their home and are renting to ride the economic storm.   The current rental market is still very active and good quality applicants are still renting albeit maybe with a better chance of negotiating rents down and having the pick of a number of property.

We are often asked, how long will it take to rent out my property, or what can I do to make it more appealing.  The simple answer is that the decor needs to be kept simple, clean and neutral.  i.e. if it’s furnished then de-clutter and for both furnished and unfurnished keep the carpets/flooring and walls neutral in colour.  Rental price seems to be the key factor for the majority of property let.  If the rent advertised is not in keeping with the market price for the property, it will not let or may take an extended period of time.  As discussed, rents have generally fallen and therefore what was achieved several years ago may not be achievable today.  Therefore, advertising a property at a price that exceeds the current market will simply stall the lettings process.  The only areas where we have seen strong demand or where prices have held up to previous year’s figures have been the detached large property’s or where there is a unique aspect to the property.  For instance, maybe a property that has more parking spaces than other similar property.  Property, located within the heart of a city with parking, as generally city locations with parking are now seen as unusual.  Other instances are those properties which have gone under major alterations giving the property maybe an open plan modern feel.

The good news is that if the property is priced to the current market then we have seen and should see good demand and subject to the property being presented appropriately then it should let within a short timescale.  How you price your property is down to the tools available to you.  Papers, Internet and local newsagent advert.  All these sources should enable you to gauge what letting agents and private landlords are advertising similar property for.  Letting agents do have a number of tools available to them, including powerful tools enabling them to see prices property that have been advertised over the last five years including the adverts placed.  Using these tools you can find very quickly similar property and find the current market level, even for the more unique types of property.

Transport.

Wokingham enjoys excellent transport links to Reading and Bracknell. This being so, it makes it a perfect area to commute from. It is ideally placed to jump straight onto the M4 and the M3 – providing easy routes to the entire country. Getting around on public transport is easy. there are excellent rail links between Wokingham and other parts of the country. The local bus service is frequent and of a good standard.

Sport and Leisure.

Originally built within the boundaries of Windsor Forest, Wokingham is surrounded by beautiful countryside, meaning that you are only a short distance away from stretching your legs and breathing in some fresh air. Within the town itself there are a number of parks including Barkham Road, Cantley, Chestnut Park, Elizabeth Road, Elms Field, Riverside Walk and Waverley. A new scheme began in January 2010, and runs until March 2011 – entitling under 16s and over 60s to free swimming. This takes place at Bulmershe Swimming Pool, Loddon Valley Leisure Centre and Carnival Pool. To get involved, contact the pools direct, or speak to Wokingham Council for the appropriate registration forms. There is a nine hold course at Hurst Golf Course for the golfing enthusiasts, estimated at a par 70. You can simply turn up and play – or you can book up to 6 days in advance.

Food and Drink.

Eating and drinking is a breeze in Wokingham, as there is a plentiful supply of bars and restaurants available for you to choose from. Everything from Indian cuisine to pizzas and from Chinese food to traditional English menus. Most places in the town are within easy reach of somewhere to enjoy a cold pint, a chilled glass of wine, and/or a plate of something suitably tasty. Of course there is also a healthy number of takeaway restaurants, and the expected international fast food chains too.

Schooling and Education.

Wokingham offers many opportunities for education. For youngsters, there are 60 maintained schools in the borough – 49 primary, 8 secondary, 2 special schools and 1 nursery. This is also a good selection of preschools for the tiny tots. There are plenty of opportunities for Adult Education for those seeking an extra skill or a change of career direction, via such centres as Bracknell & Wokingham College, Earley Crescent Community Resource Centre, Karten CTEC Centre, and of course LearnDirect.

Shopping.

Although Reading offers more in the sheer quantity of retail outlets… Wokingham can certainly hold its head up high. With everything from major High Street stores such as Boots and Marks & Spencers – to the independent retailers, still carrying out thriving trade despite the recent economic downturn.

Worship.

Within Wokingham itself there are over 120 places of worship, covering many many faiths. This wide and diverse mix provides Wokingham with a magical blend of peoples, cultures and personalities. Anglican, Catholic, Buddhist, Islam, Mormon – the list goes on.

Wokingham really does have something for everyone – and what better company to speak to about renting a property in the town than Garabys. Based in Wokingham itself, Garabys has first hand knowledge and vast experience of the area – giving them the expertise to help you find your perfect home.

There are many responsibilities that come with being a landlord. Ensuring that the rent is paid on time, generally maintaining the upkeep of the property, ensuring the property meets all legal safety standards, fixing any damages, advertising for new tenants, the list goes on and on. Whilst it might be exciting and keeping you busy to begin with, it can soon become frustrating for a new Landlord and at times can be become extremely  stressful to manage your own property.

In this article we’ll look at the advantages to using letting agents (also known as rental agents) and what they can do for you. A letting agent isn’t just there to collect the rent; they’re also very good at managing your property for you. This means you have more time to spend on enjoying other things in your life.

1. Getting the Rent on time
If you are tied into a buy to let mortgage you need the rent to be paid on time, otherwise your property may be repossessed. You will also need to ensure that any other bills are covered by the payments coming in.  It can be a real problem if or when tenants don’t pay their bills on time or when cash flow becomes a problem. But worry not – Letting agents can manage rental payments for you so you know you’ll be paid on time, every time.

2. Property checks
Occasionally you need to make sure the property doesn’t have any damages and that it is safe. A simple task, but it can be a burden if you’re busy.  Your letting agent will carry out checks for you to ensure there are no damages. This ensures a middle man is available to gain access to the property on your behalf, and to ensure that everything is as it should be

3. Fixing damages
If any damages are found on a check… they will need to be fixed quickly to avoid further problems along the way. Here at Garabys, we  have a network of plumbers, electricians, builders etc that can fix the damage fast, and at a competitive price for you. These costs can then be added to your monthly letting agency fees for convenience. Because we have these existing relationships in place already – we can negotiate the best prices for you.

4. Finding suitable tenants
If your property is aimed at certain type of occupant i.e. students, professionals, non-smokers etc then you’ll want these tenants to occupy your property to be of the right type. Finding these tenants can cost a lot of money and it certainly takes time. A good rental agency such as Garabys can quickly find suitable tenants, carry out reference checks and move them in. This saves you time – leaving you to do what you do best elsewhere.

5. Legal requirements
As a landlord there are certain legal requirements which must be met. These requirements are often changing and you need to make sure you adhere to them. Here at Garabys, we continuously ensure that we are fully aware of any and all changes in the law – and make sure that your property always adheres to them.

6. Time
How much do you value your time? By managing your own property you’ll likely spend many evenings and weekends on viewings and carrying out maintenance work. If you don’t have much spare time, let the agency do it for you. This is what we do – this is what we are the best at – and you can rest easy, knowing that everything is being taken care of.

7. Peace of mind
A letting agent (or rental agent) gives you peace of mind. It’s your way of growing your property portfolio with confidence. Once you have your first property – you may find that it is so simple going through a good Letting Agent that you are in a position to increase the number of properties. You don’t have to worry about your property because it’s all being managed by the professionals. If that’s something you want to benefit from; contact us today.

8. Deposits
Finally, an agency is often regulated to hold deposits and provide protection come the end of the tenancy. This ensures that the Landlord is not hit with terrible repair bills caused by the tenant, but also to ensure the landlord does not unfairly deduct dilapidations.

However, as with anything, sometimes problems can occur. It could be anything from the utilities failing, or a water leak, to the windows being damaged. If you have such problems you need to get it sorted quickly and efficiently. This means that you will need to develop a good relationship with your landlord. However, there are often times when it is far better to go through a letting agent – a company such as Garabys Letting Agent, who are experienced in these matters, and can do the best for you and your new home.

This article examines 7 benefits of renting through a letting agent and how it can improve your lifestyle and accommodation. Letting agents are also known as renting agents and they act as the go-between for both you and the property owner. They’re also great as resolving problems you might come up against whilst renting your accommodation.

1. Protection
Letting agents have to carry out all the necessary legal paperwork and requirements in order to protect both you and the landlord. There are often changes to the law which not all landlords are aware of. These laws are in place to protect you, the occupier. However, because Letting Agents are in this business on a daily basis – they are always fully aware of all such changes.

2. Insurance
Rental agencies will be always fully insured in case there are any problems. This might be things such as if the property develops a serious leak overnight or if the heating breaks down. Letting agencies will be covered and in a position to fix these problems quickly for you.

3. Good communications
A good Letting Agent such as Garabys will communicate with you regularly, and will always be available for yuou to speak to in case of any worries that you may have. This means if anything needs mending or if maintenance work is necessary; you can soon give them a telephone call or email, and get things sorted.

4. Maintenance
There will often be times when maintenance work is required on the property you’re staying in. This is a natural for any home. Whilst a sole landlord might try to charge you for the maintenance work; it’s not your cost to incur. A decent letting agent such as Garabys will carry out the work without affecting your rent.

5. Checks
Routine checks should always be carried out on the property you’re staying in to make sure it’s not going to fall down, but also for your safety with such things as gas supply. This is the law, and the best Letting Agents, such as Garabys, will ensure that this happens for you.  These checks rarely take very long but they will counteract any problems such as leaks or boiler breakdowns.

6. Easy payment
Paying for your rent through a rental agent is quick and convenient. You can usually set-up a standing order or direct debit to save having to visit the agency every month. Garabys Letting Agent can help you to set this up with the minimum of fuss and bother. Your payments are also be protected if you pay via direct debit so it is well worth it and it is convenient for you – removing disruption to your day to day lives.

7. Peace of mind
Finally, you want to ensure that your home is safe and secure. You want to know that it’s not going to create problems or cause you hassle. You want to be able to move into your rented accommodation and make it your home – complete with your treasured possessions and to put your own decorative stamp onto it. You need to be able to relax and unwind at the end of your day. What you don’t want are hassles from the landlord or problems with regular maintenance in your home. Choose the right rental agency such as Garabys and you’ll have complete peace of mind in your new home.

We will soon be incorporating a news section on this website. This will include interesting articles, and updates within the industry of letting – all applicable to you!

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