This page is given as a brief guideline to the letting process to help you understand the stages involved. If you are still unsure about anything, please do not hesitate to call us on 01276 64881, email admin@luff-associates.com or click here to fill in our callback request form.
Q. What do I do when I see a property that I like?
A. Firstly, it is always best to put forward an offer verbally to show you are interested. Once you have done this, you will need to fill in our reference forms and bring them to the office along with your reference and administration fees, plus any holding fee (if applicable). We will explain to you at the viewing how much you have to pay. You can pay by cheque, cash or BACS. Unfortunately, we cannot accept credit or debit cards.
Q. Can I make an offer below the asking price?
A. You can submit any offer you choose. However, when making an offer you must take into account various factors such as:
- How good the rental market may be
- How long the property has been on the market for
- How many viewings may still be lined up
For example, a property that has only been on for 24 hours and is getting lots of interest is less likely to accept a lower offer than one that has been empty for a while with little interest.
Q. Can I make any conditions along with my offer?
A. Yes you can. When you submit your offer, please inform the person you are dealing with of any matters you may want resolved for when you move in, as well as putting it in writing to us. Once the offer has been agreed, trying to negotiate the terms further down the line will be difficult as you would be changing the terms of the offer after it has all been accepted. You could also lose any monies you had submitted. Please note that all of this is subject to the landlords agreement.
Q. What happens next?
A. Once we have your reference forms and holding monies, we will forward your forms to the referencing agency we use. They will contact your employer(s), current and previous Landlords (if applicable), check your credit file, along with other items. Once you have been notified of your references passing, the contracts will be sent to you in the post for you to read, sign and return to us, along with other related paperwork we require you to complete and return. This includes the standing order mandate form which is always set up to leave your account two days before the rental due date (commencement date).
Q. When do I pay the rent and deposit?
A. We require the first months rent, deposit and check in fee at least two working days prior to your move in date, in cleared funds. You can pay by BACS, CHAPS, cash or bankers draft. If you wish to pay by personal cheque, we will need this at least 10 working days prior to you moving in, to allow it to clear.
Q. What happens on the day of the move in?
A. On the majority of properties, you will meet an inventory company at the property at the designated time. They will walk you through the property, create a check in report, take the meter readings and hand you the keys. On some occasions, the landlord will do this but you will be notified in advance if this is the case.