Where to start

1. In-depth letting consultancy

New to Letting? One of our qualified and experienced letting consultants will explain the legal aspects of becoming a landlord, and an estimate of the current rental achievable.

2. Buy to Let Consultancy

Whilst there can be no guarantee of future returns, residential property has historically proved to be a solid investment with average prices doubling in real terms since 1983. At the same time, rental yields can be attractive in times of low interest rates (Property prices may go down as well as up and, whilst we may offer general advice, we make no guarantee as to the performance of any purchase or investment).

History has shown that investment in property should generally be viewed as a medium to long term strategy. It is important to consider this, alongside potential rental return, in mind when deciding what and where to buy. With our estate agents on hand to advise, Symonds & Sampson professional agents can help you find the right type of property to suit your budget, investment targets and personal circumstances.

We can advise you on location, demand and rental values to enable you to achieve the most from your investment, and explain the legal and regulatory issues that may apply. Good residential locations attract better tenants, and demand is usually stronger for town centre rather than country properties. Newer homes may require less ongoing maintenance but carefully renovated older properties are also popular.

3. Furnished or unfurnished

Demand for unfurnished accommodation is far higher than the demand for furnished. Unfurnished usually includes carpets, curtains/blinds or at least curtain tracks or poles, light fittings. Appliances are preferable but not essential, however most tenants would expect a cooker or oven and hob.

4. Presentation – First impressions count!

If your property is presented well, it may not only achieve a higher rent but tenants are more likely to respect it. Decoration should be a neutral colour and gardens need to be simplified for ease of maintenance for the tenant. If your property has a large garden, we recommend that you employ a gardener to maintain it during the tenancy.

5. Selecting and attracting the right tenants

Not all properties are the same, and individual landlords often need to impose restrictions on the type of tenant who will be suitable for their property – for example no dogs or young children on a working farm. We will discuss your particular requirements in detail at the outset, and bear them in mind when seeking a tenant.

6. Effective Marketing

On receipt of your instructions to let your property, we will commence the process of finding a suitable tenant. Your property will be featured on our own website, as well as Rightmove and Zoopla to gain the maximum exposure possible. Details of our properties are available from each of our offices, and our digital marketing and use of social media are key to increasing interaction with potential tenants. Over 70% of people moving home use the internet to search for a property.

7. Capturing the company movers

Statistics show that a significant number of housemoves in the UK are a result of job relocation, and we actively contact larger employers within an area if we have a property which may be suitable for their employees or staff.

8. References and Financial checks

When a tenant has been found we carry out a thorough referencing procedure, usually using a specialist independent referencing company. This indepth process gives us an understanding of a tenant’s personal and financial situation, as well as a reference from an employer/accountant and where applicable a previous landlord. Whilst no crystal ball, we can then present a well-researched proposal to a landlord.