Pictured: Dawn Clarke

A leading local letting agent is urging renters across Shropshire to be fully prepared in order to ensure they don't miss out on the properties they really want. 

With demand for rental properties continuing to hit record highs, Shropshire-based Nock Deighton claims that by taking just a few simple steps, tenants can put themselves in pole position to fight off the huge competition for the most sought-after homes.

Figures released by HomeLet, a provider of references to more than 3,000 lettings agencies across the UK, outlined a 17% increase in the number of tenants moving into properties during September compared to the same period last year, while the number of tenants applying for rental properties was also up by 15%.

"On average, there are currently three would-be tenants competing for each rental property on the market," Dawn Clarke, Director and Head of Lettings and Property Management at Nock Deighton, revealed. "Therefore, it's vital for renters to do what they can to get ahead of the competition and secure the houses they are really after."

Dawn, who is also the Shropshire and Staffordshire Regional Representative of professional body ARLA (The Association of Residential Letting Agents), advises tenants to thoroughly prepare before booking any viewings, setting in place a number of key 'deal-breakers', along with areas they'd be willing to compromise on.

"This will really help a letting agent to target potential properties that really meet the tenant's needs, ensuring they don't waste time viewing unsuitable homes. It's also worth thoroughly researching an area in advance, especially if you're looking to move to another part of town, to get a good idea of average rents in the neighbourhood.

"As with most things, a problem shared quickly becomes a problem halved, so it can be really beneficial to take a friend, family member, or lettings agent on any viewings to get a second opinion and offer advice. And having referees on standby and deposits arranged before beginning a search can also help get an advantage on the competition.

"The most desirable properties will, of course, let quickly, so tenants do need to be prepared to make a prompt decision. Being thoroughly prepared and taking the steps outlined above will enable you to make a quick and informed decision, but will also ensure you aren't rushed into accepting a property that doesn't meet your key criteria."

Founded in 1831, Nock Deighton is one of the Midlands' most well-established and respected firms of estate agents, lettings agents, chartered surveyors, block management agents, and auctioneers. The company stands at the forefront of the modern property sector by embracing up-to-the-minute technology and industry best practice, and has a firm focus on achieving the very best results through a full range of specialist property-related services and dedicated staff.