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The information contained in the following article is a compilation of advice given by letting agents and intends to give first time landlords a better understanding of the letting process and how to present a rental property. Most agents agree that presentation is an important element in securing tenants and receiving the highest possible rent. Of significance is the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1985 that ensures that tenants have a home that is habitable, at the very least this means the landlord must ensure that the property has hot water, lighting and heating as well as a well maintained structure.

In terms of attracting a tenant landlords have two main options; the first is to undertake advertising in local papers and shops as well as the internet. The second option is to utilise the services provided by letting agents. For those who follow the latter course of action it is important to ensure an agent is a member of ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents), NALS (National Approved Letting Scheme) or NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents). The benefits of using an agent that is a member of one of these bodies are that if the letting does encounter problems, these problems can be reported to the industry’s governing body.

Once the process of finding letting agents has been completed the next important task is to present the property in order that it is attractive to prospective tenants. While entire re-decoration may not be a possibility there are certain jobs that should be completed as a matter of course. When redecorating it is advisable to use neutral colours for the carpets and walls. Paint is more advisable than wallpaper as it is easier to maintain whilst quality carpets and soft furnishings should be installed as these will have a greater lifespan and will cost less in the long run. In terms of the kitchen, often considered the most important room in a property, wood floors are popular and easy to maintain. The final concern should be lighting; spotlights can be installed for a chic, contemporary look.

When showing a tenant around, or allowing letting agents to show a tenant around it is vital that the property should be cleaned thoroughly. If a curry was cooked the night before, open some windows and let some fresh air into the property. In addition the bathroom should be left in a pristine state with the toilet seat down. In the bedrooms it is advisable to turn down the beds. Generally it is advisable to simply clean the property, both inside and out.

When marketing a property for rent either with letting agents or privately it is essential that an understanding of the relevant terms should be achieved. Unfurnished means that while the landlord does not have to fill the property with furniture, there should at least be curtains and carpets, in the kitchen white goods are also usually expected. Partly furnished properties may have a small amount of furniture such as tables and chairs as well as settees. A fully furnished property should contain every item presented in the previous two definitions but should also contain items such as kitchen utensils and some crockery.

Hopefully this article has given landlords an introduction, however brief, into the world of letting. In addition it has put forward advice on how to find letting agents and tenants as well as arguing the vital importance of good presentation when marketing a property.