1. BE SURE TO KNOW WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
When it comes to looking for property in the UK to rent and make your new home, you first need to start with what you want! Firstly, make sure you align your thoughts with anyone you might be sharing accommodation with. Secondly, make sure you prioritise what is most important.
The best way to avoid being lost in your research is to start with a list of the elements which are the most important for you. If you are new in the city, you will need to do some research about the local area such as; local facilities, security issues, transportation options, and rental price to help set a budget…Don’t forget the bills and the agency fees!
2. ASK THE LOCALS
Whether you are new to the city or not, a student or a working professional, you might be able to find friends, colleagues or people from the uni or even groups on Facebook to help you with your property hunting.
3. WHAT ABOUT SHARING ?
Sharing a flat or a house with friends or other people is a good way to save money. In a case you move in with people or someone you don’t know, you will need to meet them first to talk about details such as; who is cleaning and how, if you or they party oriented ?
Your life will be so much easier if you are move in with the person who shares the same interests as you. Be sure to check if your tenancy contract is joint and several, as you may end up having to pay your housemate’s rent in case he/she doesn’t pay or leaves unexpectedly. To prevent ending up in this kind of situation, OnlyMyShare (Housing Hand group) is an assurance that divides the contract ad cover you in case of non-reliable housemate (for £99) www.onmyshare.com
4. BE ORGANISED
Renting a property in the UK might sometimes be a bit tricky and requires ample organisation.
you should write down all viewing appointments in a diary and note down the time, address, the name of the person you are meeting and any other important details.
Also keep a record of all the questions you need to ask the landlord or letting agent. Be sure you ask the accommodation provider what their requirements are guarantor wise. Finding a guarantor or applying for one through Housing Hand, usually takes at least a day or two. so if you don’t want to be in a position where you are stressed or may lose a property you like it’s best to leave enough time to arrange a guarantor or have a guarantor in mind.
5. PREPARE YOURSELF
Be sure you have all the documents usually required by letting agents or accommodation provider in general. Some accept international proof of ID whilst some will only accept passports so be sure all your documents are scanned and ready available to be sent quickly.
