Our Services

A Let-Only Service (sometimes called a Tenant Find Service) is a service provided by letting agents to help landlords find suitable tenants for their rental property. Unlike full property management, which involves ongoing management of the property and tenants, a let-only service is limited to the initial letting process.

What does a Let-Only Service typically include?

1. Property Marketing: The letting agent will create listings and advertise the property across multiple online platforms, including property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, and others, to ensure the property reaches a broad audience of potential tenants.

2. Conducting Viewings: Letting agents arrange and conduct property viewings, showing potential tenants the property and answering any questions about the rental.

3. Tenant Sourcing: The letting agent will screen potential tenants, including conducting background checks, reference checks, and ensuring they meet the landlord's criteria. This is important for reducing the risk of problematic tenants.

4. Tenant Vetting: This step includes a thorough assessment of the tenant’s financial situation, employment status, and rental history to ensure they are reliable and can pay rent on time.

5. Tenant Introduction: After identifying a suitable tenant, the letting agent will formally introduce the tenant to the landlord. The agent may assist with the signing of the tenancy agreement but doesn’t manage ongoing communication after this point.

6. Deposit Protection: In some cases, the letting agent will also ensure that the tenant’s deposit is protected according to legal requirements, ensuring that the money is held in an official government scheme.

Note: With a Let-Only Service, the landlord is responsible for managing the tenancy once it has been agreed, including rent collection, maintenance issues, renewals, and handling disputes.

How Does Let-Only Service Work?

1. Initial Consultation: The landlord contacts the letting agent, and they discuss the specifics of the property, including the rent they want to charge, the tenant demographic they’re targeting, and any preferences for the tenant (such as no smoking, etc.).

2. Valuation and Marketing: Provide a market valuation of the property to help determine an appropriate rent price. Then begin marketing the property to potential tenants.

3. Viewings and Tenant Screening: We will arrange property viewings, evaluate tenant applications, and carry out checks on the prospective tenants, including credit reports and references.

4. Tenant Introduction: Once we have found a suitable tenant, we prepare the tenancy agreement, making sure all the necessary legal documentation is in place.

5. Handover: After the tenant has signed the agreement, the property manager hands over all documentation to the landlord. Our involvement usually ends here, and the landlord becomes responsible for managing the tenancy going forward.

When Should a Landlord Use a Let-Only Service?

A Let-Only Service is a good option for landlords who want to maintain control of the ongoing management of their properties but need assistance with the tenant-finding process. It’s particularly suitable for landlords who:

• Have Experience: Landlords who are comfortable managing the day-to-day tasks of renting, such as handling maintenance issues, rent collection, and communication with tenants, will find this service beneficial.

• Own Multiple Properties: Landlords with multiple properties might prefer to manage them independently but need professional assistance with finding and vetting tenants.

• Want to Save Money: For landlords who do not need full property management services, a Let-Only Service can be a more budget-friendly option. Letting agents charge a one-off fee (usually a percentage of the first month's rent), which is typically lower than the ongoing fees of property management services.

• Have Reliable Tenants: If a landlord already has reliable tenants and doesn’t need help with property maintenance or rent collection, a Let-Only Service can help with future tenant sourcing.

Things to Consider with Let-Only Services

• Ongoing Responsibility: With a Let-Only Service, the landlord retains full responsibility for managing the property once the tenancy agreement is signed. This means dealing with tenant queries, handling maintenance requests, and managing rent collection.

• Additional Costs: Although Let-Only Services are more affordable than full property management, landlords should still factor in the one-time fee charged by the letting agent. It’s also important to budget for any maintenance, legal issues, and other operational costs that come with managing the property.

• Legal and Financial Knowledge: Landlords need to be familiar with their legal obligations, including eviction procedures, tenant rights, and safety regulations, as the letting agent’s involvement stops once the tenancy begins.

Conclusion: When to Choose a Let-Only Service

A Let-Only Service can be an excellent choice for landlords who want to find reliable tenants quickly but are comfortable managing their properties on an ongoing basis. By utilising the expertise of letting agents in tenant sourcing, marketing, and vetting, landlords can reduce the risks associated with property leasing and ensure they get the best possible tenant for their property.

If you prefer to manage your own properties but need professional help with finding tenants, the Let-Only Service offers the perfect balance of support and independence.

Rent Collection Service: Simplifying Rent Collection for Landlords

Managing rental payments can be one of the most time-consuming and potentially stressful tasks for landlords. From keeping track of due dates to chasing late payments, the process can quickly become overwhelming. This is where a Rent Collection Service comes in—offering a streamlined solution that ensures landlords receive their rental income on time, without the hassle.

In this blog, we’ll break down what a Rent Collection Service is, how it works, and the benefits it offers to landlords.

What is a Rent Collection Service?

A Rent Collection Service is a service where we handle the collection of rent payments on behalf of the landlord. This service ensures that the landlord receives rental income in a timely manner while taking the stress of rent collection off their shoulders.

A Rent Collection Service can be part of a broader property management package, or it can be offered as a stand-alone service. The primary purpose is to ensure that rent payments are collected, processed, and passed on to the landlord with minimal involvement on their part.

What Does a Rent Collection Service Include?

A typical Rent Collection Service includes several key functions designed to make the payment process as smooth as possible for both the landlord and the tenant:

1. Rent Collection and Transfer

Collect the rent payments from the tenant (either via bank transfer, standing order, or other methods) on the agreed-upon due date. They then transfer the rent income to the landlord, typically on a monthly basis, minus any agreed-upon fees for the service.

• Tenant Payment Reminders: Send payment reminders to tenants before the rent due date, reducing the chances of late payments.
• Payment Processing: Once rent is paid, we ensure that the payment is processed efficiently and transferred to the landlord.

2. Late Payment Management

One of the biggest challenges landlords face is late rent payments. A Rent Collection Service usually includes managing any overdue payments on behalf of the landlord.

• Chasing Late Payments: If the tenant misses a payment or is late, the property manager will follow up with them, through phone calls, emails, or official notices.
• Late Payment Fees: If the terms of the tenancy agreement specify late payment fees, the agency will enforce them, helping ensure tenants remain accountable for timely payments.

3. Comprehensive Reporting

Landlords will receive regular reports detailing all rent payments collected, including amounts, dates, and any arrears. These reports can be helpful for accounting purposes and tax filings.

• Monthly Rent Statements: A detailed statement will be provided showing the rent collected each month, along with any fees or deductions.
• Transparency: The service keeps landlords informed about the status of their rent payments and any tenant-related issues that may arise.

4. Tenant Communication

The Rent Collection Service acts as a buffer between the landlord and tenant for rent-related issues. This can help reduce potential conflicts and improve the landlord-tenant relationship.

• Reminders and Notifications: We notify tenants of upcoming rent due dates and provide clear communication on how payments should be made.
• Tenant Queries: If tenants have questions about rent payments or need assistance with payment methods, the agency is available to handle their inquiries.

5. Arrears Management

If tenants fall behind on their rent, the Rent Collection Service typically handles the process of managing the arrears.

• Negotiating Payment Plans: Our property manager may work with the tenant to set up a payment plan for any overdue rent.
• Formal Notices: If payments continue to be missed, we will issue formal notices to tenants, such as a Section 8 notice or Section 21 notice (in the UK), depending on the situation.

6. Legal Support

In the unfortunate event that a tenant is consistently late on payments or refuses to pay, the Rent Collection Service will often offer legal support to the landlord.

• Eviction Support: The property manager can guide the landlord through the process of eviction if necessary, ensuring that all legal steps are followed correctly.
• Dispute Resolution: The agency may also help resolve any payment-related disputes between the landlord and tenant.

Benefits of a Rent Collection Service

1. Time-Saving and Convenience Managing rent payments can take up a significant amount of a landlord’s time, especially when there are multiple tenants or if tenants are frequently late with payments. By outsourcing rent collection, landlords can save time and avoid dealing with tenant payment issues directly.

2. Reduced Late Payments A professional Rent Collection Service helps to minimise late payments by sending reminders and following up on overdue rent. With a streamlined process and dedicated staff handling payment tracking, tenants are less likely to fall behind.

3. Financial Peace of Mind Knowing that rent is being collected and transferred on time means landlords can rely on steady cash flow without having to worry about the administrative burden or potential tenant disputes over payments.

4. Clear and Transparent Reporting With regular and detailed rent statements, landlords can easily track rent income and have access to the necessary documentation for tax filing or accounting purposes. This transparency helps landlords stay organised and on top of their finances.

5. Professionalism and Communication Rent Collection Services have experienced staff who are skilled at managing tenant relationships. They ensure that tenants receive prompt, clear, and professional communication regarding rent payments, which can reduce misunderstandings and disputes.

6. Reduced Stress and Tension Handling late rent payments or dealing with tenants can be stressful and time-consuming. By outsourcing this task to a Rent Collection Service, landlords can focus on other aspects of property investment without the constant worry of payment issues.

7. Improved Tenant Relationships When the agency manages the payment process, tenants may feel less pressure from the landlord, leading to a smoother relationship. Additionally, tenants are more likely to pay on time if they receive regular reminders and clear instructions on how to pay.

8. Legal Protection A Rent Collection Service ensures that landlords remain compliant with any legal obligations related to rent collection and arrears management. If legal action is required due to non-payment, the service can guide the landlord through the process, ensuring everything is handled properly.

When Should a Landlord Use a Rent Collection Service?

A Rent Collection Service is an excellent choice for landlords who:

• Have Multiple Properties: Managing rent payments across several properties can be overwhelming. A rent collection service can simplify the process and ensure consistency in rent collection.
• Don’t Have Time: If landlords are busy with other work or personal commitments, outsourcing rent collection can save them significant time and effort.
• Prefer to Avoid Tenant Interactions: Some landlords prefer not to deal directly with tenants regarding payment issues. A Rent Collection Service acts as a mediator, reducing the need for direct communication about rent collection.
• Want Consistent Cash Flow: A rent collection service ensures that landlords receive timely payments, reducing the risk of delays or missed payments that could affect their finances.

Conclusion: Why Choose a Rent Collection Service?

A Rent Collection Service offers landlords the convenience and peace of mind of knowing that rent payments are handled professionally and efficiently. By outsourcing this critical task, landlords can save time, reduce the stress of late payments, and ensure they receive consistent rental income without having to deal with the complexities of tenant communication or arrears management.

While there is a fee for the service (usually a percentage of the rent collected), the benefits of reduced stress, improved cash flow, and a more professional approach to rent collection are well worth it. Whether you have a single rental property or an entire portfolio, a Rent Collection Service can help simplify the process and protect your income.

What is a Full Management Service?

A Full Property Management Service is an all-inclusive service that takes care of the day-to-day operations of a rental property. It is typically provided by letting or property management agencies and covers everything from tenant sourcing to rent collection and maintenance.

With this service, the management company handles nearly every aspect of the rental process, freeing landlords from the responsibilities and challenges of managing their own property. From tenant disputes to emergency repairs, the property manager is there to ensure that your property is well-maintained and that tenants are satisfied.

What Does Full Property Management Include?

A full property management service typically includes the following key areas:

1. Tenant Sourcing and Marketing

Property management services advertise your property across multiple platforms and handle all aspects of tenant sourcing. This includes creating professional listings, conducting property viewings, and ensuring the property is marketed to reach the right audience.

• Advertising the Property: The agent will use online property portals, social media, and their own network to market your rental property.
• Conducting Viewings: The property manager arranges and conducts property viewings with prospective tenants, saving you time and effort.
• Tenant Screening: They perform thorough background checks on potential tenants, including credit checks, referencing, employment history, and criminal checks, to ensure they are reliable.

2. Tenant Management

Property management services deal with all aspects of tenant management, which helps reduce tenant turnover and improve the tenant experience.

• Tenant Onboarding: Once a tenant is found, the property manager handles the preparation of the tenancy agreement and ensures all legal documentation is completed correctly.
• Rent Collection: The property manager collects rent payments, monitors overdue payments, and follows up on late rent. They may also set up automated rent payment systems for convenience.
• Handling Tenant Issues: Any tenant inquiries, complaints, or maintenance requests are directed to the property manager, who resolves them promptly and professionally.

3. Ongoing Maintenance and Repairs

One of the most valuable aspects of full property management is that it handles all property maintenance, both regular upkeep and emergency repairs.

• Routine Inspections: Property managers conduct regular inspections to ensure the property is well-maintained and the tenant is complying with the terms of the lease.
• Maintenance Coordination: Property managers coordinate any necessary repairs, ensuring they are done promptly and at a competitive cost. They have relationships with trusted contractors and tradespeople.
• Emergency Repairs: If there is an emergency, such as a plumbing leak or electrical failure, the property manager is available 24/7 to handle the issue, ensuring the tenant’s safety and minimizing property damage.

4. Legal Compliance

Rental laws are constantly evolving, and staying compliant can be a challenge for landlords. A full property management service ensures that your property remains compliant with all current laws and regulations.

• Health and Safety Compliance: Property managers ensure that the property meets all necessary health and safety standards, including gas safety checks, electrical inspections, and fire safety measures.
• Tenancy Agreements: They prepare tenancy agreements that are legally sound and protect the interests of both parties.
• Deposit Protection: The property manager ensures that any tenant deposits are protected in accordance with government regulations, giving tenants confidence and keeping the landlord legally safe.
• Evictions and Legal Support: If necessary, property managers handle the legal process of evicting a tenant, including issuing notices, preparing documents, and ensuring the eviction is conducted legally.

5. Financial Management and Reporting

A property management company will handle the financial aspects of your rental property, ensuring transparency and accurate record-keeping.

• Rent Collection and Payments: Rent payments are collected by the property manager and then transferred to the landlord, minus any management fees or expenses.
• Accounting and Statements: Property managers provide detailed financial reports and regular updates on the property's income and expenses, helping landlords stay organized for tax purposes and keep track of their investment.
• Tax Assistance: Many property management services assist with tax-related matters, helping landlords understand deductible expenses and file taxes correctly.

6. Vacancy Management

A vacant property means no income, and property management services help minimize vacancies.

• Tenant Retention: A property manager works to retain tenants by ensuring they are happy and resolving any issues promptly. Happy tenants are more likely to renew their leases, minimizing the need to find new tenants frequently.
• Quick Turnaround Between Tenants: If a tenant moves out, the property manager will quickly advertise the property and manage viewings to minimize the time the property sits vacant.

7. 24/7 Support and Emergency Response

Many full property management services offer around-the-clock support for both tenants and landlords, ensuring that any urgent issues are resolved quickly.

• Emergency Maintenance: If something goes wrong at any hour—such as a burst pipe or heating failure—the property management company ensures that a qualified contractor is available to fix the issue.
• Tenant Communication: Tenants know who to contact in case of any problems, and the property manager takes care of communication to ensure timely resolutions.

Benefits of Full Property Management Services

1. Time-Saving and Convenience
   Managing a rental property involves many tasks, some of which can be time-consuming and stressful. Full property management services relieve landlords of these responsibilities, ensuring that they don't have to worry about the daily operations of their rental properties.

2. Expert Knowledge and Experience
   Property managers have extensive experience with tenant relations, legal requirements, and property maintenance. They know the ins and outs of the rental market and can help landlords avoid costly mistakes and navigate complicated legal matters.

3. Stress-Free Property Ownership
   By handling tenant issues, property maintenance, and legal compliance, full property management services allow landlords to enjoy the financial benefits of their property investments without the associated stress and headaches.

4. Improved Tenant Satisfaction
   Professional property managers are skilled at resolving tenant issues and maintaining good relationships with tenants, which can lead to longer-term tenancies and fewer disputes. Happy tenants are more likely to take care of the property and pay rent on time.

5. Legal Protection and Compliance
   Property managers ensure that landlords comply with all laws, including health and safety standards, tenancy regulations, and eviction procedures. This reduces the risk of costly fines, penalties, or legal disputes.

6. Maximized Rental Income
   With professional management, landlords are more likely to have tenants who pay rent on time and take care of the property, minimizing vacancies and ensuring steady rental income.

7. Peace of Mind
   Having a professional team handling all aspects of your rental property gives you peace of mind, knowing that everything is taken care of efficiently and professionally.

Conclusion: Why Choose Full Property Management?

A Full Property Management Service is ideal for landlords who want to eliminate the stress and responsibility of managing rental properties themselves. With a team of experts handling everything from tenant sourcing and maintenance to legal compliance and emergency repairs, landlords can focus on other priorities while still reaping the rewards of rental income.

While full property management services do come with a fee (typically a percentage of the monthly rent), the benefits in terms of time savings, reduced stress, and a more efficient property management process can be well worth the cost.

Whether you’re new to renting out property or are simply looking to offload the responsibilities of managing your portfolio, a full management service can help ensure a smooth, profitable, and stress-free rental experience.