Landlords Guide Book a Property Valuation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

During a long trading history spanning over 30 years we have been trusted with letting some of the area’s most prestigious homes. Our first class marketing and exceptional attention to detail ensures that we consistently achieve the very best results for our clients, whether they are looking to let a small studio or a large country estate. If you are thinking of letting your property and want to know exactly how it works from start to finish, then take a look at our step by step guide below which will help begin your journey to a successful tenancy agreement.

   

Step By Step Guide

  

Step 1: The Valuation

Perhaps the single most important element when looking to let a property is an accurate valuation. Whether you’re looking to move immediately or sometime in the future, the first step is to find out the market value of your asset - contact us to help!

Step 2: Choosing the right agent

It all starts with choosing the right estate agent! At Village Estates the client is always put first and we aim to make the lettings process as simple and stress free as possible. We know that you will take fantastic care of your property, so we can guarantee to provide the same level of care should you choose us as your estate agent to market your home. So why choose us? We're experienced, know the local area, have a highly successful track record and can market your property by investing valuable time in paying attention to the small details.

Step 3: The Marketing Plan

At Village we recognise a strong marketing plan is essential to giving your property the exposure it deserves. At Village Estates we prepare your property for the market by taking professional photographs, drawing up a floor plan, designing brochures, and scripting a property write up. We can then market your property on notable portals like Rightmove and Zoopla as well as our own website and local magazines. Rest assured we are prepared for every type of marketing strategy and our discreet marketing service is a very powerful option for those of a more private disposition.

Step 4: Viewings

When it comes to viewings the first stage is to get your property ready because first impressions really do count. We will advise you on how to present your property and of course keep the place clean and tidy but the extra tips and suggestions we have to offer can maximise the chance of a successful viewing. We accompany every viewing unless you specify otherwise and given that we're open 7 days a week means we never miss the opportunity to conduct a viewing unlike other agents.

Step 5: Agreeing an offer from the Tenant

Once we receive an offer we qualify the tenant's ability to proceed and then make contact with yourself to notify you of both the offer and the buyer's position. We can then use our negotiation skills to ensure you receive the best possible price. Should you wish to consider other factors such as tenant references and whether they have a reliable income, we will be here to help.

Step 6: Referencing the Tenant

It's important to run thorough checks on prospective tenants so that your investment is secure. Village Estates use strict referencing procedures carried out by independent experts which can give our landlords a comprehensive understanding of their personal and financial circumstances, including a check on their employment history, credit worthiness, previous landlord (if appropriate) and previous addresses.

Step 7: Tenancy Agreement & Payment

This document outlines the agreed responsibilities of both parties. It's important that both tenants and landlords take the time to read this carefully before signing as the tenant cannot move into their new home until they have paid the security deposit, at least one month’s rent in advance and all administration fees. An inventory and schedule of condition is also conducted providing a detailed list agreed and signed by both parties itemising the contents and condition of the property at the time of the tenant moving in.

Step 8: The Security Deposit

Once the deposit has been paid in full, the tenant has secured the property. This deposit is held against possible damage to the property which can be checked against the inventory at the end of the tenancy. The Housing Act 2004 protects all parties in this regard as the deposit is now required to be held within a government-approved scheme on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy, offering a quicker and easier ways of resolving disputes, without the need for court action.

Step 9: Tenancy Commences

Once the tenancy agreement has been signed and funds have been cleared in our client 's account, keys can be handed over and the tenancy begins. To keep checks on the property, you will need to agree a number of visit dates with your tenant. If you want to minimise your workload, Village Estates offers a fully managed service option to lighten the load. We will carry out all inspections and checks and provide you with reports on the property and its tenant.

Step 10: The Next Step

At the end of the tenancy period both landlord and tenant will need to decide whether to extend the agreement or not. If staying put, liaise with your agent directly and complete all the necessary paperwork to renew the tenancy agreement. If you decide to end the tenancy, then remember to give the correct notice (as both the landlord and tenant) and arrange a checkout depending on who manages the property. The property must be left in appropriate condition and the keys handed back. If there are no deductions or disputes and all the necessary forms are filled out correctly by both parties then the deposit should be returned ten days after the deposit release agreements have been received.

Registered Name: Elstree Homes Ltd. Place of Registration: England. Registered Number: 9582754. Registered Office Address: 1 Waterside,  Station Road, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 4US.
VAT Number: 213056256. Trading As: Village Lettings Ltd. Privacy Policy | Complaints Procedure | TPO Certificate