Handy tips on how to secure a rental home

THE average advertised rent for new properties on the rental market outside London has hit another new national record of £1,278 per calendar month, according to Rightmove.

The average rental property across Britain is currently receiving 25 enquiries from prospective tenants, which is more than triple the eight they were receiving in pre-pandemic 2019.

Rightmove’s Director of Property Science, Tim Bannister, has these tips for would-be tenants. He says: “Moving fast to set up a viewing is key, which can be difficult when juggling other commitments. Having instant property alerts set up, and getting to know local estate agents can help to make sure you’re one of the first to know about a new property.

“Be clear about your nonnegotiables from the start. This includes your max budget, how many rooms you need and how long you intend on staying at the property. This will help avoid going on viewings where the property isn’t quite right, and help agents suggest the most suitable other properties.

“Being flexible on a move-in date is tricky, but it can be an attractive addition to a tenant application. This is easier for firsttime renters, but if you’re already renting, considering if you have any options to temporarily move in with friends or family to fit around the new property movein date could help you.

“Have your finances and documentation in order early, to be able to move through the tenancy application process smoothly and quickly. This includes having the deposit ready to go, references lined up, and a guarantor secured if you need one.

“Also, look outside traditional hotspots. If you are able to expand your search it could open up more options to find available properties, and you could potentially find some cheaper properties too.”