Expensive agents

[magic.genie]

Apologies! As I suspect this may have been asked before.

I have just thankfully found a new tenant, as my old ones, who were 2 months into an AST decided they didn't enjoy living together.

I'm concerned about paying the agent again to do the checks on the new tenant. For 2 reasons, firstly it's expensive and secondly, my tenants before the last tenants ended up owing me anyway, regardless of any agent checks.

So, my question is what are the disadavantages of not getting the Agent to do the checks?
I have asked the tenant to get a Reference from work, she said that wouldn't be a problem and I can obviously prepare an AST.

What are your thoughts? Hope to hear from you, kind regards
Alex :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[MrWoof]

I stopped using an agent because of their high fees (amongst other things). They actually said to me that they didn't worry about tenants unless they were also managing the property! Hopefully they are in the minority though. If possible I take a work reference and one from a previous - not current - landlord. I also run a credit check, not interested in their solvency but I do look for late and missing payments. Regarding personal and current landlord references, they aren't worth the paper they are written on and letters from doctors, solicitors etc - how many people are on sufficiently close terms with either for a reference to be worthwhile. The final check is your own opinion, interview the prospect at their current home, that way you can see for yourself how they have looked after it.

[magic.genie]

Thanks Mr Woof, it's good advice. How do I do a credit check?
regards
Alex

[MrWoof]

I haven't used them yet so can't comment on the service but I am registered with www.creditreporting.co.uk (http://www.creditreporting.co.uk/). There are plenty of others and quite a variety of fees. Check the old forums for these.

[P.Pilcher]

Why check out the old forums? As our respected editor and moderator has posted - raise your eyes to the top of the page where you will find a suitable advertiser!
Agents provide a variety of services and it is up to the landlord to pick what they want. As my rental properties, which I manage myself, are 25 - 30 miles from where I live, I need a local organisation to conduct potential tenant viewings to save me 50 to 60 mile round trips for non showing potential tenants. I believe I get fair value for money from my agents who have their pulse on current rents and I find to be very helpful and accomodating. They are also some of the longest established estate agents in their localities. In the case of the tenants who only lasted two months, talk to your agent who may well be prepared to offer you a special deal naxt time in compensation.

P.P.