Decide on your budget. Before you start looking for a property to rent, it's important to decide on your budget. This will help you to narrow down your options and focus on properties that are within your price range. Typically speaking you need to be receiving at least 30x the monthly rent as an annual income.
Decide on an area and research the local rental market. it's a good idea to research the local rental market to get a sense of the types of properties available and the prices being charged. This can help you to set realistic expectations and make informed decisions.
Sign up to Rightmove’s property updates. Getting the latest properties sent directly to your email address as soon as they go online will ensure that you are well positioned to act fast. As the rental market is often very competitive it is essential you stay on top of new properties coming onto the market and book viewings to ones that you are interested in quickly. Signing up to Rightmove will ensure that you get the vast majority of rental properties in your area sent to you in one email, rather than signing up to lots of different agents as this can be confusing.
View properties. Once you have found a property that you are interested in, arrange to view them in person. This will give you a better idea of the property, its condition and the general area which it is located in. This will help you to decide if it's the right fit for you.
Rent through a reputable letting agent. Look for an agent who has a good reputation, a lot of experience, and shows positive online reviews. We hear lots of horror stories of tenants renting privately or through poor letting agents only to be let down when things go wrong in the property. A good letting agent will ensure any maintenance is done in a timely manner and will make your renting experience as stress free as possible.
Referencing. Once you have found a property that you are interested in renting you will need to apply for it. Application processes vary depending on the agent but with Alex Jones you will need to fill out our application form and if you are successful you will need to pass Rightmove referencing: this will include a credit check, right to rent check, affordability check and providing employment and landlord references. It is a good idea to gather documents before applying so that you have everything you need to hand. The type of documents that you will need are as follows: photo ID, proof of address, 3 months bank statements, 3 months payslips, employment reference, previous landlord reference and potentially a share code if you are not from the UK.
Confirm the terms of the tenancy. Once you have been accepted to rent the property you will need to confirm the terms of the tenancy with the landlord or letting agent. This will typically include the rental price, the start date and length of the tenancy, and any other conditions or restrictions. Our tenancies are typically 6 months initially and then roll month to month thereafter.
Sign the tenancy agreement. Once you have agreed on the terms of the tenancy, you will need to sign a tenancy agreement. This is a legally binding document that sets out the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant. Make sure that you carefully read and understand the agreement before signing it.
Pay the deposit and rent. Before you can move into the property, you will need to pay the deposit and the first month's rent. The deposit is typically equivalent to one month's rent, and will be held by the landlord or letting agent as security against any damage to the property. Make sure it is registered in a government approved deposit scheme to ensure your money is protected.
Move in and enjoy your new home. Once you have paid the deposit and rent, you can move into your new property. Take the time to settle in and make the space your own. If you have any issues or concerns, contact your landlord or letting agent for assistance.
Moving out. If you decide that you want to move out of the property ensure that you refer to the tenancy agreement to check the correct notice period. This will be one calendar month if through Alex Jones. Ensure that the property is cleaned and all items are removed to make sure that you get your deposit back. Generally speaking if you hand the property back in the same condition that you received it then you should receive your full deposit back. Of course there is an allowance for general wear and tear and if you have any queries you should raise them with your landlord or letting agent prior to moving out for full clarity.