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Tag: Landlord

CR Real Estate: Your Trusted Estate Agent in Rainham

Posted on by Sophie Winter

CR Real Estate is an independent estate agent in Rainham with over 129 years of combined experience in sales and lettings. Our team offers unmatched expertise and local knowledge, ensuring a smooth and tailored moving experience for our clients. Whether you’re buying, selling, renting, or letting, our dedicated staff is with you every step of the way, making your property journey stress-free.

Why choose CR Real Estate?

  • Extensive Local Knowledge: With years of experience as an estate agent serving Rainham and the surrounding Medway towns, we understand the local property market.
  • Comprehensive Services: We offer sales, lettings, and mortgage services, giving clients access to everything they need under one roof.
  • Personalised Experience: Our goal is to meet your specific needs, whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, landlord, or tenant.

For expert advice on the value of your property or the local market, CR Real Estate is the name you can trust.

Living in Rainham: a local insight

Once a small town, Rainham has become a sought-after residential area in Medway. The town began expanding in 1858 with the introduction of the railway, with significant growth seen in the 1960s. Today, Rainham offers a variety of properties, from modern executive homes to cozy bungalows and terraced houses. According to Rightmove, the average house price in Rainham reached £392,931 over the last year.

For those interested in renting, Rainham offers a range of 2-3 bedroom homes, catering to families and individuals.

Rainham’s amenities and schools

Rainham’s shopping centre, established in the 1970s, serves as a hub for residents, featuring well-known retailers. Independent shops along the High Street and Station Road add to the town’s charm.

Families moving to Rainham will be pleased with the local schooling options. The area is home to four secondary schools, including Rainham Mark Grammar School, The Howard School, Rainham School for Girls, and Leigh Academy Rainham.

Travel and commuting from Rainham

Rainham is a fantastic location for commuters, situated 39 miles southeast of London. The town’s railway station provides direct services to major London stations, including Victoria, Bridge, and St Pancras, with travel times just under an hour. Additionally, the town has connections to Kent’s coastal towns and cities like Canterbury. London Gatwick Airport and the Channel Tunnel are both within an hour’s drive, making Rainham well-connected for international travel.

Looking for an estate agent in Rainham?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting, CR Real Estate is here to help you make the most of your property experience in Rainham. Reach out today for expert advice and personalised service.

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What is a qualified buyer?

Posted on by Sophie Winter

Have you ever heard the term “qualified buyer”? Estate agents often use it, and it’s important to understand about the phrase when selling your home. But what does it really mean, and why should you care?

What does a qualified buyer mean?

A “qualified buyer” refers to someone whose financial and purchasing position has been confirmed by the estate agent. Agents register buyers and match them with properties that fit their criteria, much like a matchmaking process for homes. This helps reduce wasted viewings, as buyers are only shown properties that meet their needs.

However, qualifying a buyer goes beyond preferences like the number of bedrooms. It’s about confirming their financial readiness. This ensures you don’t waste time preparing for viewings or get your hopes up over offers that can’t be followed through.

When an agent says a buyer is “qualified,” it means:

  • They’ve confirmed their ability to make the purchase. This inlcudes whether they need to sell a property first or serve notice to a landlord.
  • They’ve provided proof of how they’ll fund the purchase. Whether it’s through cash, a mortgage, or the sale of another property.
  • They’ve shared the status of their own property sale. Whether it’s already on the market, under offer, or ready for sale.

Why is this important?

Imagine receiving a great offer on your home, only to find out later that the buyer still needs to sell their property, which isn’t even listed yet. This could cause significant delays or even a collapsed sale. Knowing a buyer’s financial position upfront gives you confidence that the offer is genuine and that the sale can move forward smoothly.

Your agent will also use this information to gauge how quickly each buyer can proceed. This ensuring that the process aligns with your needs. For example, a cash buyer ready to move in four weeks may not suit you if you’re not in a rush.

Knowledge is key

Understanding the buyer’s position from the start helps you plan effectively, save time, and avoid potential pitfalls. If this is new to you, reach out to our team for expert advice and ensure you’re fully prepared for a successful sale.

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Mortgage Advice: finding the right deal for you

Posted on by Sophie Winter

When it comes to getting mortgage advice or securing a mortgage, many people head straight to their bank or building society, often where they hold their current accounts. While this is a common approach, it may limit your options and prevent you from finding the best deal.

To ensure you find the most suitable mortgage for your specific needs, it’s essential to explore a broader range of choices. This is where the difference between going direct to a lender and using a mortgage adviser becomes critical. As estate agents, we work closely with the mortgage advisers at The Residential Mortgage Hub (also known as a mortgage broker) who have access to an extensive range of mortgage deals available across the market.

Why speak to a mortgage adviser?

A mortgage adviser plays an important role in helping you navigate the mortgage landscape. With access to thousands of mortgage products from multiple lenders, they can provide expert mortgage advice that’s tailored to your financial situation. By working with a mortgage adviser early in the process, you gain valuable insight into the options available to you, even before you start searching for a property.

A mortgage adviser will:

  • Explain the first steps in getting a mortgage.
  • Guide you on the necessary financial research and budgeting.
  • Help you save for your deposit.
  • Search for the right mortgage deal and handle the application process on your behalf.

With their expert mortgage advice, they can even provide a clear understanding of how much you may be able to borrow using their budget planning tools. This insight is invaluable when you reach the exciting stage of looking for your new home.

Finding the right mortgage for your needs

Once you’ve saved your deposit and found a property, your mortgage adviser will search thousands of deals from a wide variety of lenders.

They understand the mortgage market, and more importantly, which lenders are likely to approve your mortgage based on your individual circumstances and the type of property you’re purchasing. Not all lenders will approve mortgages for every buyer or every property type, so having professional mortgage advice can make all the difference.

With an experienced adviser by your side, you’ll be less likely to face the disappointment of a mortgage rejection, giving you peace of mind throughout the home-buying process.

They handle your mortgage application for you

After finding the right mortgage for you, they’ll manage the entire application for you. From handling the paperwork to liaising with surveyors and your legal team, they’ll save you time and ensure everything is in order. They will also keep you informed at every stage and are always available to answer any questions you may have, no matter how small they seem.

Mortgage protection insurance

Beyond your mortgage, you’ll need to consider essential protection policies such as buildings and contents insurance, as well as life and critical illness cover. These are important steps to safeguard your home in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

Their mortgage advisers, are also qualified to provide advice on these insurance options. They’ll shop around for the most suitable policies for you, taking care of the paperwork so you can focus on your new home with confidence and security.

Book your appointment with The Residential Mortgage Hub

Buying a home can be a stressful process, but with the right mortgage advice, they can make it a lot easier. Book an appointment with one of their mortgage advisers today, either online or by calling 01634 968111!

Important information

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount will depend upon your circumstances. The fee is up to 1% but a typical fee is £598. For insurance business we offer products from a choice of insurers. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.

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Actions landlords should take when their tenant falls into rent arrears

Posted on by Sophie Winter

Are you familiar with the appropriate steps to take when a tenant falls behind on rent payments? This can pose a challenge for landlords, as it is crucial to ensure compliance with relevant legislation throughout the process. Additionally, many landlords lack a systematic approach for addressing such situations, which can leave them feeling unprepared. Today, we will outline some essential guidelines for pursuing rent arrears, including dos and don’ts. We will also delve into the recommended process for handling these complex scenarios, including the selection of appropriate legal notices to serve.

A tale of two tenants

CR Real Estate has identified two distinct types of tenants who experience rent arrears. The first group consists of tenants who, due to unfortunate circumstances, find themselves unable to pay at present despite their willingness to do so. The second group comprises tenants who have the financial capability to pay but deliberately choose not to fulfill their rent obligations. Dealing with tenants in the latter category can be particularly challenging. Therefore, it is crucial to establish a well-defined process that guides your actions, ensuring you are prepared to handle either situation effectively.

Guidelines for pursuing rent arrears: what to do and what to avoid

As you develop your process, we will provide our recommendations on the dos and don’ts in handling such situations. Effective communication is paramount. Once you become aware of missing payments, promptly reach out to the tenant to understand if there is an underlying issue causing the problem.

Through these communications, you can determine which category the tenant falls into and work towards finding a mutually satisfactory solution. The initial step, when a tenant fails to pay rent for seven days, is to send a formal letter requesting payment. Follow-up letters should be sent every seven days throughout the process. Simultaneously, attempt to contact them via phone or email to seek an explanation and negotiate a payment plan.

It is crucial not to harass the tenant. Continuous, excessive contact throughout the day is legally defined as harassment and should be avoided. Instead, establish scheduled times for communication.

If the tenant is genuinely unable to pay, it may be worthwhile to apply for direct payment from Universal Credit. The advantage of this step is that there is no harm in making the application, regardless of whether the tenant eventually receives payments from Universal Credit. It can potentially relieve the tenant from the responsibility of making rent payments themselves.

What to do when they just won’t pay

Responding promptly is crucial when dealing with tenants who are capable of paying rent but refuse to do so. In such cases, we recommend taking swift action to regain possession of your property. It is important to send rent demand letters promptly every 7 days, and on the 28th day, serve a notice of possession as soon as possible. Once legally permissible, initiate court proceedings without delay.

Now, you may be wondering about the appropriate notice to serve tenants in arrears. Our recommendation is to serve a Section 8 notice, specifying the grounds you wish to rely upon (typically grounds 8, 10, and 11). This notice is appropriate when the tenant is two or more months behind on rent. We suggest this notice because it comes with a 14-day notice period in England, allowing for the quickest path to regain possession of your property in such cases.

You may have heard of serving a Section 21 notice to tenants in arrears, which is also a valid option. However, it is worth noting that the notice period for Section 21 is 2 months long, resulting in a delay in effectively addressing the situation.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, effective communication plays a vital role in responding to tenants who have fallen into rent arrears. For tenants experiencing financial difficulties, engaging in dialogue can help understand their challenges and work towards a mutually agreeable payment plan. However, when tenants willingly refuse to pay, they are often unresponsive, necessitating legal action. Familiarising yourself with relevant legislation is crucial, and a valuable resource we recommend is GOV.UK, which provides up-to-date guidance and information on the legal notices discussed today.

We hope this has provided you with valuable insights on how to handle tenants in arrears. At CR Real Estate, we are committed to assisting landlords in effectively managing their rental properties. We have developed a wealth of content offering practical, step-by-step guidance on the pertinent legislation that landlords need to navigate. Contact our expert lettings team today to discuss your property and how we can help you.

This article is intended as a guide only and does not constitute legal advice. For more information, visit gov.uk.

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September property market update

Posted on by Sophie Winter

According to the latest Rightmove House Price Index, average asking prices for new sellers rose by 0.8% (+£2,974) in September, reaching £370,759, with the property market benefiting from a surge in activity. This price increase is double the long-term average for this time of year, reflecting pent-up buyer demand being released, leading to a 27% year-on-year rise in sales agreements.

Image from Rightmove September House Price Index

More sellers entering the property market

Rightmove’s data highlights growing confidence among homeowners, with 14% more sellers entering the market compared to last year. The number of available properties per estate agent has also reached its highest level since 2014, giving buyers more choice with an average of 33 homes per branch.

How long is it taking to find buyers?

Despite increased market activity, caution remains a buyers are price sensitive. It currently takes an average of 60 days for sellers to find buyers. This is slightly longer than last year, as value-conscious buyers take their time. Well-priced, appealing homes are likely to attract buyer interest quickly, while those that are overpriced or poorly presented may struggle to gain attention.

Mortgages

While the recent decline in mortgage rates is encouraging for buyer confidence, they remain high compared to the 2008-2022 period. Rightmove’s weekly mortgage tracker shows the average 5-year fixed rate at 4.67%, down from a peak of 6.11% in July 2023. But still nearly double the 2.34% seen three years ago before 14 consecutive Bank Rate increases. While some buyers are taking advantage of the current conditions, others may need to wait for further rate reductions and improved affordability. It is always wise to speak to a mortgage broker for guidance and advice.

Uncertainty remains, with attention focused on whether the Bank of England will implement a second consecutive rate cut this week. Looking ahead, the Autumn Statement could impact specific segments of the property market. Rightmove’s data suggests certain areas are already feeling the effects of a potential rise in capital gains tax. As a record number of former rental properties are now listed for sale, indicating more landlords are exiting the market.

Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s Director of Property Science, says:

“Early autumn movers who are acting quickly and taking advantage of the improved market conditions are getting the pick of quality homes for sale. Home-owners who are thinking of coming to market soon shouldn’t let the increased activity make them over-optimistic and must price competitively to sell. With affordability still very stretched for many, choosy buyers are taking their time to browse the increased number of homes for sale and find the perfect home at the right price. There are question marks over how the market will be affected by announcements in the Autumn Statement, but until then we expect that market momentum will continue as the autumn action rolls on.”

Curious about your property’s value?

Find out today with a free online property valuation or call our team on 01634 570057.

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Property management insights: key facts every landlord needs to know

Posted on by Sophie Winter

Managing a rental property can be rewarding, but it’s also time-consuming. On average, landlords spend up to 15 hours per month handling various tasks related to their rental properties. From tenant communication to maintenance coordination, these responsibilities can quickly add up, eating into your valuable time. Now, imagine what you could do with those 15 hours instead—whether it’s focusing on your career, spending quality time with family, or simply enjoying a hobby. The truth is, property management doesn’t have to consume your life.

Legal support and regulations

One of the most challenging aspects of being a landlord is navigating the complex web of legal requirements. Did you know that 1 in 5 landlords accidentally breach regulations? These mistakes can lead to hefty fines and legal complications, turning your investment into a potential liability.

Landlords responsibilities and property laws and regulations are constantly changing, and keeping up with them can be overwhelming. A property manager is always up-to-date with the latest legal developments, ensuring that your investment remains compliant and protected.

Fewer vacancies and higher income

Landlords who partner with professional property management companies typically experience fewer vacancies and higher income. Studies show that professionally managed properties can earn up to 10% more annually compared to those that are self-managed. This increase in income is not just from better tenant retention but also from expert marketing and strategic rent adjustments.

Property maintenance

Maintenance and repairs are another significant concern for landlords. Keeping a property in top shape is crucial, but it can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you’re not handy yourself. Our property managers handle all maintenance and repairs, so you don’t have to lift a finger. They have a network of trusted contractors who can address issues quickly and efficiently, ensuring your property remains in excellent condition.

Tenant registration

Another major advantage of working with a property management company is our ability to screen tenants effectively. Bad tenants can cause endless headaches, from late payments to property damage. Our professional tenant screening ensures that your property is occupied by reliable, responsible tenants, reducing the risk of these issues.

So, are you ready to enjoy a stress-free landlord life?

Partnering with a professional property management company like CR Real Estate offers peace of mind, reliable income, and expert support. It’s time to take the next step towards maximising your investment while reclaiming your time. Contact us today and experience the benefits of professional property management!

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The challenges of managing rent collection on your own

Posted on by Sophie Winter

Making sure that rent collection payments are on time and paid in full each month is an important task for any landlord managing a rental property. Rental income is the lifeblood of your investment, covering mortgage payments and regular maintenance, and providing a profit margin.

Many landlords face financial strain if rent is missed even briefly, as they may rely on rental income for personal expenses or need to cover mortgage payments themselves. This highlights the importance of:

  1. Conducting thorough referencing and credit checks before accepting a tenant to confirm they can afford the rent.
  2. Monitoring rent collection payments on the due date.
  3. Contacting the tenant immediately if payment is missed to determine the cause and take appropriate steps:
    • Resolve bank issues or forgotten payments promptly.
    • Arrange a payment plan if the tenant has short-term financial difficulties.
    • Consider eviction if the tenant cannot afford the rent or is deliberately not paying.

Challenges for DIY Landlords

DIY landlords often face specific challenges in rent collection:

  • Forgetting to check the rent due date, especially when busy or on holiday.
  • Handling repeated non-payment legally and appropriately to enable potential eviction.
  • Avoiding harassment and knowing legal limits in rent collection.
  • Risking legal claims if tenant rights are violated or the collection process is mishandled.

Benefits of working with professional rent collection services

Working with a property management company like CR Real Estate can alleviate these issues:

  • We ensure timely and full rent payments with established procedures.
  • We will notify and follow up with tenants on late payments.
  • We have expert property managers who effectively communicate and negotiate with tenants, detecting any issues early.
  • We assist in evictions if necessary, ensuring the process is legally sound and efficient.
  • We help end tenancies quickly to bring in new paying tenants.

While most tenants pay rent on time, the odd occasional issue requires immediate attention to avoid financial loss.

How to make sure tenants rental payments are on time

To help tenants make timely payments:

  • Provide your bank details and request tenants set up a standing order for rent.
  • Mark the due date to check payments with your bank.
  • If rent is missed, contact the tenant and confirm the conversation in writing.
  • For short-term affordability issues, consider a written and signed payment plan with the tenant.
  • If persistent non-payment occurs, consider starting the eviction process:
    • Serve a section 8 notice for rent arrears after two months and pursue a possession order if necessary.
    • Alternatively, issue a section 21 notice with two months’ notice, potentially using an accelerated possession order.

After eviction, you may pursue overdue rent, though it might be more practical to focus on finding a new tenant quickly.

Contact us for professional property management

Managing property rentals, especially rent collection, can be challenging. Let our team at CR Real Estate handle it for you. We work hard to ensure timely rent collection payments and hassle-free property management, giving you peace of mind.

Call us today on 01634 570057 and experience stress-free property management.

Looking to rent out a property as a holiday let?

If you want to know more information about holiday lets please contact our local lettings experts on 01634 570057 or book a free online property valuation.

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Everything you need to know about renting your home as a holiday let

Posted on by Sophie Winter

Renting out your home as a holiday let can significantly boost your income. However, it’s important to understand the relevant rules and regulations before diving in. This guide will help you navigate the process of renting out your home as a short-term holiday let, and how having the right agent can simplify it.

What is a holiday let?

A holiday let is a property rented out for short-term stays, ranging from a single night to several weeks. These properties are fully furnished and equipped with all the essentials to ensure a comfortable stay. Holiday lets are often located in popular tourist destinations, cities, or other desirable locations.

How much could you earn from a holiday let?

As a holiday let owner, you can set a nightly rate for your property, adjusting it based on seasonal demand. Researching similar properties in your area can help you determine competitive pricing. Consider offering discounted rates for longer stays and increasing prices during high-demand periods like weekends.

Preparing your home for a holiday let

To stand out in the competitive holiday let market, your property must meet certain standards and requirements. A unique theme or décor can attract more guests. Higher-quality properties tend to perform better, as guests are willing to pay more for a premium experience. Whether it’s a cozy log cabin, a modern city apartment, or a charming seaside cottage, properties with distinct personalities are more appealing to guests.

What are the running costs for a holiday let?

Understanding the costs involved in running a holiday let is essential, especially if you’re new to the market.

  • Mortgage Costs: Factor in monthly repayments if the property is mortgaged.
  • Advertising: Continuous advertising across various platforms is necessary to maintain a steady flow of guests.
  • Cleaning: Each turnover requires a thorough cleaning, which means ongoing expenses for cleaning services.
  • Maintenance: Regular maintenance and repairs are needed due to higher wear and tear from frequent guests.
  • Utilities: Gas, electricity, water, and Wi-Fi are ongoing expenses.
  • Insurance: Building and content insurance are required, along with additional coverage for emergencies, accidental damage, and legal issues.
  • Property Management Fees: Working with a letting agent can provide a hands-off approach, managing the property for a fee.

Rules and regulations for holiday lets

Running a holiday let requires adhering to various legal and non-legal requirements. If you have a mortgage, check with your lender or a mortgage broker to ensure short-term rentals are permitted. As a landlord, you are responsible for maintaining the property and ensuring it meets safety standards.

Legal requirements include:

  • Fully furnishing the property
  • Renting it out for at least 105 days per year
  • Performing fire risk assessments and installing necessary fire safety equipment
  • Installing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
  • Obtaining a gas safety certificate

Non-legal requirements include:

  • PAT testing for electrical appliances
  • Obtaining an electrical safety certificate
  • Conducting hazard assessments for pools and hot tubs

As a local letting agent, we can handle these requirements for you, reducing stress and ensuring compliance.

The importance of managing a holiday let

Managing a holiday let can be time-consuming, depending on its popularity. High-quality customer service is essential for repeat business and positive reviews, which boost the property’s appeal. An external management service can handle guest queries, maintenance, and other tasks, allowing you to focus on providing the property and enjoying the profits.

Looking to rent out a property as a holiday let?

If you want to know more information about holiday lets please contact our local lettings experts on 01634 570057 or book a free online property valuation.

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The advantages of renting out your property as an HMO

Posted on by Sophie Winter

Most landlords rent out their properties as a whole, but leasing your rental property as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) provides an alternative approach.

An HMO is a property rented to multiple households who share common facilities. A household can consist of an individual or members of the same family, which includes:

  • Married or cohabiting partners
  • Relatives or half-relatives
  • Step-parents and step-children

An HMO is considered small if it has at least three tenants from more than one household and large if it has at least five tenants from more than one household.

In an HMO, each household rents individual bedrooms and shares communal areas such as the kitchen or bathroom. Despite increasing rental demand, the number of HMOs in the UK has declined in recent years, making it an opportune time to invest.

So, what are the advantages of renting your property as an HMO?

Increased rental yield

Entering into multiple tenancy agreements with different households can result in a higher rental yield compared to renting out a property to a single household. Additionally, you can adjust the rental rates for different rooms to further increase your rental yield. For example, a master bedroom with an en suite can be rented for more than the smallest bedroom in the same property.

Strong demand in popular areas

HMOs offer a new rental option for young professionals and students seeking accommodation without the need for a long-term commitment. They provide tenants with a more affordable and flexible solution in popular areas.

Traditionally, individuals looking to rent would need to find roommates to afford an entire property, which can be challenging when relocating to a new city for work or education. In recent years, there has been a significant shortage of student accommodation in the UK. Consequently, HMOs have become increasingly popular in university cities to address this shortfall.

Converting an existing rental property into a HMO

Converting your existing rental property into an HMO requires time, effort, and careful attention to detail to ensure it meets HMO standards.

There are minimum room size requirements based on the number of occupants sharing each bedroom. Your property must also comply with safety regulations, such as installing fire doors.

You will need an HMO license if your property has at least four tenants forming two or more households. Some local councils require an HMO license for smaller properties as well, so you should contact your local council for more information.

Reduced void periods

A void period is the time between tenancies when your rental property is unoccupied. As a landlord, you will want to avoid extended void periods, as they can diminish your rental income, especially if you rely on rent to pay your mortgage.

Renting your property as an HMO can help minimise the duration and impact of void periods. Since an HMO is rented out by individual bedrooms rather than the entire property, it is less likely that the property will be completely empty at any given time. Additionally, you can include a clause in your tenancy agreement requiring the remaining tenants to cover the rent shortfall if one or more bedrooms become vacant.

How can we help you?

Interested in discovering the potential rental income of your property as an HMO? Book a complimentary rental valuation to explore your options with our knowledgeable team today by calling 01634 570057 or booking online.

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Landlords: why going fully managed could help you

Posted on by Sophie Winter

We recognise that handling a property can become both time-consuming and costly. That’s why we suggest entrusting your property to a professional agent with a fully managed service.

Whether you’re a new landlord or a seasoned property investor of one week or ten years, there’s one thing we can all agree on: managing your property can be challenging. When renting out a property, the need to be accessible to tenants becomes priority. Many landlords and property investors find it challenging to manage multiple properties on their own, especially during busy seasons and holidays, which only adds pressure to these responsibilities.

How can we help you?

This is where a reliable letting agent can play a vital role. Our skilled experts at CR Real Estate can assist in saving you time by overseeing your rental property, handling financial paperwork, and dealing with tenant management.

We understand the significance of time, particularly during busy periods. Our lettings team are here to assist with tenant enquiries, maintenance issues, and much more with our fully managed service. Our expertise will allow you to enjoy holidays and day-to-day living without interruptions from tenants and issues. We offer regular check-ins on your property to ensure it stays well-maintained, which reduces the chances of unexpected expenses that might add extra stress.

From a financial standpoint, the benefits of opting for a fully managed property agent are clear. We can guide you through the complex landscape of property management and enhance your investment for optimal returns. By efficiently managing tasks such as rent collection and property inspections, we ensure your investment is optimised.

Compliancy made simple

The legal responsibilities facing landlords today have significantly increased compared to just a few years ago. Ensuring you’re well-versed in these matters is crucial to avoid hefty fines that could transform your buy-to-let aspirations into a nightmare.

Legislation is notorious for its constant changes, making it challenging to stay updated on all the details. Having a team of experts by your side is invaluable in today’s dynamic environment. As a reputable letting agent we stay informed about any regulatory changes impacting your property investment and present your options in a clear and understandable manner.

Finding tenants isn’t as easy as it once was

There have been significant changes in the rental market, including shifts in tenant expectations. While the demand for quality homes remains high in many areas, tenants are no longer willing to settle for subpar properties or inadequate landlord services. With rental costs consuming a considerable portion of people’s incomes, it’s understandable that they expect nothing less than what they deserve.

Additionally, the challenges in the property buying market have contributed to a ripple effect in the rental sector. Tenancy durations are extending, with many lasting four years or more nowadays. This increased commitment from tenants emphasises the importance of professionalism in attracting the best renters.

Opting for full management services ensures representation by a trusted name that tenants can rely on. This instills confidence in potential renters and significantly improves the chances of finding the right tenant for your property. Additionally, with experienced valuers and negotiators working on your behalf, you stand to secure the best rental price—a clear win-win situation.

Want to discuss your rental property and becoming fully managed?

Don’t hesitate any longer! Give yourself the luxury of time, savings, and a stress-free 2024 — all made achievable through the expert care of our property management agents!

Got a property or portfolio you’d like managed in Medway or any of the surrounding areas in Kent? We’re here to help! Simply get in touch with our dedicated lettings team to find out more about how we can help you become more hands-off with your investment.

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5 reasons to use a buy-to-let mortgage broker

Posted on by Sophie Winter

When you need a new buy-to-let mortgage, of course you can go directly to a lender yourself. But if you do, you might not be getting the right deal over the lifetime of your investment, so is it sensible?

There are five very good reasons why you should speak to a mortgage broker for the financing of your buy-to-let property. Each of which can really benefit you and the profitability of your property investment:

Expert knowledge

If you’re not a mortgage broker, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll know of every aspect when applying for, and progressing, a mortgage. This could lead to you wasting a lot of time and effort trying to work your way through your options, only to end up with a deal that a broker could easily better.

More importantly, there’s a possibility that you might not provide all the necessary information to the lender in the correct way. You may also unwittingly leave out things that are critical to securing the right mortgage.

Lenders typically have varied criteria and regulations based on how you intend to let the property. Specialised mortgages are necessary for properties like HMOs. Also if you intend to let to tenants on benefits, you’re likely to be restricted in your choice of financing.

Access to a wide range of mortgage deals

A mortgage broker will have access to a vast range of products available in the market. They will work to effectively source the most suitable one for your specific circumstances.

Speed on limited-time deals

Certain deals are only available for a very limited time. Often only those with a buy-to-let specialist broker may have the opportunity to secure them. In these cases, it’s essential to work with someone who is experienced and knows exactly what to do and when, so that the administration is done correctly from the outset.

Working with underwriters

If you work with an experienced mortgage broker who has been handling buy-to-let cases for a number of years, they will have created relationships with underwriters and other key people who can help progress your application as quickly as possible.

They’ll be able to get answers to your questions quickly, and a well-connected broker can be the determining factor in successfully obtaining the necessary financing as opposed to a deal falling through.

Regular reviews

A qualified mortgage broker will keep up-to-date with all the latest regulations and new deals. They will also let you know about the optimal times to consider switching your mortgage. Many brokers are also happy to work with your financial adviser to help ensure your investment keeps delivering the best returns.

Looking for a buy-to-let mortgage broker?

At CR Real Estate, we work with a local Kent broker who are buy-to-let specialists. Their friendly team are always happy to speak to landlords about their mortgage borrowing. If you’d like a review of your portfolio, or have any other questions, please get in contact with The Residential Mortgage Hub.

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Important information

There is no guarantee that it will be possible to arrange continuous letting of the property, nor that rental income will be sufficient to meet the cost of the mortgage. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount will depend upon your circumstances. The fee is up to 1% but a typical fee is £598.

Our top tips to finding new tenants quickly

Posted on by Sophie Winter

The surge in rental home demand has created an unprecedented situation where every home listed on the market experiences high demand. Consequently, landlords are faced with an elevated volume of rental applications to sift through in order to choose a suitable tenant. In this blog post, we will explore five effective strategies that landlords can use to speed up the tenant selection process. These tips will help increase the chances of finding the perfect tenant, and reduce the time and effort needed to do so.

Detailed property listings

Creating thorough property listings is one of the most important aspects when renting out your property. Dedicate some time to investigate the frequently asked questions about similar rental properties in Kent, and incorporate the responses into your property description. By proactively providing all the information upfront, including details like the number of bedrooms, available amenities, and proximity to local transportation options; you can assist potential tenants in assessing whether the property aligns with their requirements even before they express interest. This approach ensures that prospective tenants come prepared for viewings, saving valuable time for both parties involved.

Pre-qualify potential tenants

You can simplify the tenant selection process by pre-screening applicants. Prior to arranging viewings, request potential tenants to complete a pre-qualification form. This enables you to assess their eligibility for the property and understand their readiness to undergo reference checks.

This method reduces the risk of investing time in applicants who may not meet your criteria and allows you to focus your attention on those who have a genuine interest and a higher likelihood of successfully passing the reference checks.

Organise block viewings

Conducting separate viewings for every applicant can become a time-consuming and less efficient process, particularly when a property generates high interest. Instead, consider organising group viewings, wherein multiple prospective tenants are shown around the property in intervals of 10-15 minutes. This approach not only saves time for everyone but also creates a competitive atmosphere among applicants. Therefore encouraging them to make quicker decisions and submit their applications promptly.

Confirming attendance

Focus your efforts on confirmed viewings to reduce the likelihood of no-shows and to optimise your time. Prior to the scheduled viewing, send a reminder to the applicants and request their confirmation of attendance. By taking this approach, you can diminish the chances of last-minute cancellations and ensure that you are making the most efficient use of your time during each viewing.

Prepare your tenants for check-in

After you’ve narrowed down your pool of prospective tenants, assist your selected applicants in preparing for the next phase of the rental process by offering them detailed guidance, such as a step-by-step guide. This will help them grasp the requirements for a seamless check-in. This proactive approach not only minimises the need for extensive back-and-forth communication, but also demonstrates your dedication to delivering a positive rental experience.

Want to discuss your property?

We understand that as a landlord the surge in tenant demand can present opportunities and potential difficulties. If you’re feeling daunted by the prospect of securing a new tenant or if you’re interested in learning more about our comprehensive property management solutions in Kent, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling 01634 570057 or submit an online enquiry to our lettings experts.

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