My last tenant left the property in a state after 3 months of not paying the rent. What can I do to avoid this in the future?
You should make sure all tenants are referenced to ensure they have the ability to pay. When using this service we can provide you with a low cost insurance product that will protect you should this happen again.
We are looking to buy our first home. Do we start looking for the right property first and then apply for a mortgage?
The first thing you need to know is how much you can afford. I suggest you arrange an appointment with an independent mortgage advisor. They will be able to advise on the best mortgage for you and give you an indication of how much you can borrow. You can then get an...
My property has been on the market now for over 3 months with no interest. What advice would you give to get it sold?
First take a look at the price. If you have had no viewings or interest then chances are there is something wrong with this. Refer to our article on getting the price right. You can’t beat getting a fresh look. If you have given your current agent a fair crack at the...
My tenant has been in the property for 18 months now. When can I put up the rent and how?
Any rent increase should be fair and in line with the current market. Some landlords link their rent increases to the inflation rate whilst others have their own calculation method. You cannot raise the rent during a fixed term unless specifically allowed for within...
Market View
Latest figures from the Halifax Price index show an annual increase in property values of 8.1% placing the average UK property value at £192,970. Home sales rose for the second successive month in February with a 2.5% increase compared with January. Signs of a recent...
Electrical Shock for landlords
The Electrical Safety Council (ESC) have highlighted some confusion over electrical safety between PRS Landlords and tenants in private rented sector properties. 30% of landlords did not realise that they were responsible for the electrical safety within their...
Now Recruiting Nationwide
We're looking for new Estate & Lettings agents to join us and have nationwide opportunities. Find out more at http://thegoodestateagent.co.uk/recruitment We have full and part time opportunities with flexible hours to suit you. `This is an exciting time for Estate...
New Property Portal to Block Online Agents
Who benefits from this? The consumer or high street estate agents? We're interested to hear your views. A new property portal set to launch later this month is trying to disrupt the market by blocking cheaper, online agents from publishing their properties with them....
5 Top Tips for Winter property protection
Service your heating During winter months extra strain is placed on your boiler and heating system. You should make sure your boiler is serviced regularly. Bleed the radiators to release trapped air in the system and improve efficiency. Insulation warnings Insulation...
Support our football team
Were supporting The Smeeth & Brabourne Eagles, under 11's football team by supplying them with their brand new kit. Don't they look great! Plus for every new property we take on via the team we're giving them a gift of £250. Find out more...