If you're a landlord wanting to minimise the stress of managing your rental property, you may consider using a property management company in Northampton. However, knowing the right questions to ask to make sure you get the best fit is key to success! At Horts we are experts in lettings and property management! So,we want to share five questions you should ask when choosing a letting agent.
1. What's Your Experience In The Northampton Rental Market?
Why it's important: Local market knowledge is essential. An experienced agent in Northampton will understand rental market trends, pricing, and tenant demographics. This insight helps in setting the right rent and finding suitable tenants quickly.
Ask: “Can you tell me about your experience with rental properties in Northampton?”
Look for: Specific examples of properties the agent has managed and their success stories.
Horts has 27 years of experience. Our senior lettings team are all members of ARLA (Association of Residential Lettings Agents) and we know the market inside-out! If you are a firrst time landlord, our experience is invaluable.
2. How Do You Screen Tenants?
Why it's important: The tenant screening process is crucial to find reliable tenants for rental properties in Northampton. A thorough screening reduces the risk of rent arrears and property damage.
Ask: “What's your process for vetting potential tenants?”
Look for: A detailed explanation of credit checks, reference verification, and employment history review.
Horts will carry out full referencing for landlords in Northampton and we are happy to discuss exactly how this works.
3. What's Your Fee Structure?
Why it's important: Understanding the fee structure is key to avoiding unexpected costs. Letting agents can charge for tenant find, full management, or both.
Ask: “Can you provide a detailed breakdown of your fees?”
Look for: Transparency and clarity in the fee structure, with no hidden costs.
Horts offer a 'let only' service and a 'fully managed' service to suit your requirements. We will be delighted to discuss these options with you in detail.
4. How Do You Handle Property Maintenance And Repairs?
Why it's important: Efficient handling of maintenance and repairs keeps tenants happy and preserves the value of your rental property.
Ask: “What's your process for dealing with maintenance issues?”
Look for: Prompt response times, a network of reliable contractors, and a clear communication process.
Horts has built excellent relationships with our contractors. We believe that a good maintenance team is key to the smooth running of every lettings organisation.
5. Can You Provide References From Other Landlords?
Why it's important: First-hand feedback from other landlords in Northampton can provide insights into the agent's reliability, communication, and effectiveness.
Ask: “Could you provide contact details for a few landlords you've worked with?”
Look for: Positive reviews and experiences shared by other landlords.
Horts has plenty of glowing reviews! You can read some of them here.
If you're looking for reliable property management for your rental property in Northampton, look no further than Horts. Call us today on 01604 639933, drop us an email to rentals@horts.co.uk or book a rental valuation.
As experts in the Northampton property market, we are your number one choice.
