With demand for rental property at an all time high in
Lincolnshire and throughout the East Midlands, the Association of
Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) is issuing advice on securing a
rental home in a tough climate.
"We are seeing an unprecedented level of demand for homes, with
prospective buyers turning to rented property as a more flexible
option than buying," said Jill Elkington, East Midlands
spokesperson for ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents)
and residential lettings manager at Hodgson Elkington, chartered
surveyors.
"However, although the rental market is highly competitive, it
is still possible to find that ideal home - if the search is
carried out in a thorough, well-informed and realistic manner," she
added.
ARLA recommends the following for anyone looking to secure a
rental property this summer:
Work out your true priorities
Before booking viewings, set in place key 'deal-breakers' as
well as areas for compromise. Knowing what things you're willing to
be flexible on can aid the decision-making process and help your
agent select properties to suit your specific needs.
Be prepared to make a prompt decision
With the best properties often being let quickly, it is
important to be able to make a swift and informed decision.
However, it it's even more important not to feel pressured into
accepting a property that does not fit your agreed standards -
quick decisions are different to rushed decisions.
Don't go it alone
As the adage goes, a problem shared is a problem halved, which
is why it can be useful to bring a friend or family member along to
any viewings for that crucial second opinion. Further to this,
using an agent can make the process easier. Licensed ARLA members
have industry-leading market knowledge, and are regulated - giving
you access to client money protection and a redress scheme - as
well as an informed opinion
Get a flavour of the local market
If you are moving to a new part of town, check it out on foot to
get a feel for the area before you begin your search. It is also a
good idea to conduct online research into average rents for the
area early-on to build up a picture of likely prices and adjust
your own expectations - or budget - accordingly.
Get your house in order
If possible, try to get your referees ready to respond to
agents' enquiries by return and your deposit ready before beginning
your search, to minimise delays once you have found the property
you wish to rent.