James & James provides a range of letting and management services based on the experience, skills and expertise of our lettings team. As members of The Property Ombudsman, Propertymark & TDS you can be assured that we have a detailed understanding of the lettings and management sector and will ensure that you are given the best possible service.

 

Over the last few years and, following the introduction of the 1988 Housing Act which offers greater protection and possession rights to Landlords, there has been resurgence in the lettings market.

 

People from all walks of life are looking to become involved in the rental market whether Investors, Companies, people who need to relocate with their work or homeowners who are having difficulty in selling their own properties. Increasingly, large numbers of people are entering the ‘Buy to Let’ sector as an opportunity for investment.

 

As a result, Landlords have come to expect extensive knowledge and expertise from the Agency they choose to act in their interests.

 

Get in touch with us today.

 

WHERE TO START?

 

1. Local Lettings Agent – we would suggest you find a local agent who is associated to a Trade Association such as Propertymark. In choosing us, you have come to the right place.

  

2. Having chosen your agent, you will be required to prepare your property for rental and below we list a few guidelines to assist you:

 

The rental market as with any other is competitive therefore, in order to obtain the best possible Tenants; you must present your property in the most effective way.

 

• Interior walls should be neutral colours and carpets plain
• Fabrics and Furnishings (if any) should be able to withstand reasonable wear and tear and be of suitable quality
• Animals and their odours should be eliminated
• The front door should be clean and the Entrance Hall clear of any obstructions as first impressions are important
• The entire property should be clean and well-aired and the garden tidy.
• If the weather is cold, heating should be turned on and, in warmer conditions, windows opened
• For any other advice contact your Agent

 

3. Other important considerations for Landlords before Letting

 

• Written consent must be obtained from your Mortgage Provider/Freeholder (if property is leasehold).
• Your Insurance Company must be notified that the property is to be rented out and appropriate insurance obtained for a tenanted property. There are specialist insurance companies who can provide this and we would be happy to assist you.
• The Inland Revenue must also be informed within 6 months of letting your property, flat or apartment in the UK and failure to do so will incur penalties, interest and other consequences. The Inland Revenue are apt to deal harshly with Landlords who do not declare rental income and it is always best to seek advice on tax planning and Capital Gains Tax from a fully qualified Accountant.
• Mail should be redirected with the Post Office.
• Further copies of keys will need to be provided, at least two if you have Management Agents acting for you.
• Utilities such as gas/electricity/water/telephone & Council Tax will have to be transferred to the successful Tenant.
• An Inventory and Check In should be drawn up. This is an important legal document which forms an integral part of the Tenancy Agreement and, as such, it is a false economy to prepare your own in most cases.

 

The Inventory is required whether the property to let is furnished or unfurnished and accurate descriptions of the overall condition of wall/floor coverings, kitchen and bathroom fittings to name but a few are essential. Amounts cannot be withheld from the Tenant’s deposit unless the loss or damage is proved to have been caused by the Tenant.

 

In the event that any dispute concerning loss or damage to your property is not amicably resolved then the matter will be referred to the Courts and arbitration but should be noted that any judgement will be on the basis of written documentation – the Inventory.

 

Landlord Fees

We understand that when it comes to looking at letting your property and choosing a letting agency, one service does not fit all. That is why we offer a bespoke service that is tailored to suit your needs.

Whether you want to be hands on with your property, or sit back and allow someone to manage your property on your behalf; James & James has the solution for you.

We offer three tiers of service, covering everything from just finding you a tenant to our fully managed service where we take care of everything from rental payments to maintenance. Costs and inclusions can be found here

 

Tenant Fees can be found here

 

Company Let Fees can be found here

 

James & James Lettings Company Registration number 14656848