Day: 25 January 2021

In this three-minute read, we share five top tips if you’re thinking about renting out your property for the first time.

Deciding to become a landlord is a big step.

It can be both exciting and daunting.

Here at Chamberlains, we’ve got some tips on what you need to think about when renting out a property so you can make your first venture a smooth one.

Do some market research

To work out how much rent you could be expecting, have a look at similar properties in the area. If you’re not sure much you should be asking for, arrange a valuation with us. We can also help you make sure your property is aimed at the right tenants.

Make sure your property is ready for your tenants

It’s vital to ensure that your property is tenant-ready. A well-maintained home is more attractive to any new occupants and a few improvements could make all the difference. Ensure that outstanding repairs are complete before any viewings take place.

Consider whether to offer your property on a furnished or unfurnished basis. The option you choose will depend on the type of tenant you want to attract. If you decide to furnish your property, choose neutral colours and simple styles to allow your tenants to put their own stamp on their new home.

Understand your responsibilities

Being a landlord can take up a lot of your time. It’s your responsibility to take care of any major issues which may arise and these can occur at any time of the day or night. Some, like a gas leak, may require your immediate attention. Your tenants will also look to you to carry out repairs, and maintenance unless you appoint a letting agent to manage your property. Speak to us to find out how we can help.

Make sure you comply with the law

When it comes to being a landlord, there’s a jungle of laws and regulations that you need to navigate through. All tenancies begin with a right to rent check and you must make sure that you’ve taken the correct steps to register and protect your tenant’s deposit.

Ensure that the property has working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and an up-to-date gas safety check – which should be carried out on an annual basis. Your property must also have an Energy Performance Certificate before you can offer it for rent. We ensure all the properties we rent out and manage are fully compliant with all the relevant legal requirements.

Use a letting agent

You may decide that you want to manage your property yourself.

However, the right letting agent can make your first experience as a landlord stress-free, act as a buffer between you and your tenants, and provide expertise and support if things don’t go according to plan.

Here at Chamberlains, we’re with you every step of the way. Get in touch with your questions and one of our experts will be happy to help.

©Chamberlains 2021

In this two-minute read, we look at the reasons why people struggle to sell their homes and what can be done about it.

Monday last week was officially the most depressing day of the year, as if we needed reminding.

Scientists claim it’s the perfect storm for a downer. Money is tight, resolutions have fallen by the wayside, and the weather is rubbish. Add to that the lockdown and you have a recipe for doom and gloom.

And if you have a home that won’t sell, you can feel down in the dumps.

But at Chamberlains, we believe it shouldn’t be that way.

So, we’ve come up with four ways you can beat the home selling blues.

Is the price right?

 The right price is vital to securing a sale. Buyers have budgets, so if your home is just over their limit, they won’t find it if they are searching online. Mortgage lenders are also put off by an overvaluation. Check what similar homes in the area have sold for and get a new valuation from another agent, but be mindful of any contractual obligations you may have with your current selling agent.

Are your photos up to scratch?

Nowadays, online searches are the most popular way people look for properties, which means photos are crucial. An excellent agency takes the time to get these super important parts of the marketing puzzle in place and looking good. Bad photos cause buyers to scroll past your property.

Try the mystery shopper approach 

A good agent will let you know what prospective buyers think of your home and the interest it is generating. If this isn’t happening, get a friend or family member to pose as a mystery buyer, with a budget in your property’s price range, and phone the agent to see if they mention your home. If they do, great, if they don’t, it’s a cause for concern.

Are your chances being clogged up by clutter? 

Choosing a new home is a big step. Buyers want to visualise what your property will look like after they have moved in, complete with their choice of décor and their belongings. Make it easier for them to do this by making your home look and feel more spacious.

Rooms should be clutter-free and well lit – small touches can make a big difference, and first impressions count.

We hope that’s helped. Please feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about banishing the property selling blues.

*You can still sell your home at this time. Chamberlains strictly adheres to the government’s Covid-19 restrictions.

Copyright 2021 Chamberlains