We’ve been renting out property for a number of years. At first it was a baptism of fire. But you learn quickly speaking to other landlords and working with good letting agents. Then about three years ago we went through the process of renting out our home in Bristol. Even as pretty experienced landlords, it was like no other rental property we’ve dealt with. It still isn’t. We’ve spoken to a fair number of homeowners over the last few years who have rejected the idea out of hand. When asked why, they mention their own bad experiences or friends’ stories. Some of the worries are sound enough. It would be silly to pretend otherwise. But dismissing the idea out of hand may be a missed opportunity.
If you follow our guide it will go some way to side-stepping the problems faced by reluctant landlords. In the end you may decide selling is a better option, but why not check out whether renting would work?
It’s true that it doesn’t always make sense to rent rather than sell. But these days people are shifting faster than properties! Renting your home can work as a stop gap, or a longer term investment. But this site is primarily aimed at ‘stop gap’ landlords, who intend to sell their properties when the UK market improves.
Letting agents would have you believe a good agent is all you need. And hey presto, everything else will take care of itself. If only it were that easy. A smart agent certainly helps, but even they can be let down. If you’re clued up on some of the pitfalls and opportunities your more likley to get a better quality of tenant and get the best rent you can.
Our aim here to pass on the most useful things we’re learned when renting out our home (and our other properties).