5 Tips when renting in the UK

août 27, 2015

Are you planning on renting in the UK? If yes, then read our top 5 tips for how to get the best property…

1. Be sure you know what you’re looking for when renting.

When it comes to finding a new home, we always have a special image in mind, built from our dreams or from what we’ve seen on TV. But in the end, many of us just don’t know what we want. This can get even more complicated if you are in a shared property as you may not all have the same idea of what is best when renting in the UK.

The best way to avoid being lost in your research is to start with a list of the elements which are the most important for you. If you are new in the city, you will need to do some research about the local area such as; local facilities, security issues, transportation options, and rental price to help set a budget…Don’t forget the bills and the agency fees!

2. Ask the locals.

Whether you are new to the city or not, a student or a working professional, you might be able to find friends, colleagues or people from the uni or even groups on Facebook to help you with your property hunting.

3. Considering shared accommodation.

Sharing a flat or a house with friends or other people is a good way to save money. In a case you move in with people or someone you don’t know, you will need to meet them first to talk about details such as; who is cleaning and how, if you or they party oriented?

Your life will be so much easier if you are moving in with the person who shares the same interests as you. Be sure to check if your tenancy contract is joint and several, as you may end up having to pay your housemate’s rent in case he/she doesn’t pay or leaves unexpectedly. To prevent ending up in this kind of situation, OnlyMyShare (Housing Hand group) is an assurance that divides the contract and covers you in case of non-reliable housemate (from £99) www.onmyshare.com

4. Be organised.

Renting a property in the UK might sometimes be a bit tricky and requires ample organisation.

you should write down all viewing appointments in a diary and note down the time, address, the name of the person you are meeting and any other important details.

Also, keep a record of all the questions you need to ask the landlord or letting agent. Be sure you ask the accommodation provider what their requirements are guarantor wise. Finding a guarantor or applying for one through Housing Hand, usually takes at least a day or two. so if you don’t want to be in a position where you are stressed or may lose a property you like it’s best to leave enough time to arrange a guarantor or have a guarantor in mind.

5. Prepare yourself.

Be sure you have all the documents usually required by letting agents or accommodation provider in general. Some accept international proof of ID whilst some will only accept passports so be sure all your documents are scanned and readily available to be sent quickly.