subject: How To Make Short Term Let Stress Free [print this page] Short lets are a common option for living in London. People often perceive renting a short-let apartment as a no-fuss and risk-free activity as compared to buying a home. Still, most people view the process of renting a short term flat in London as a tedious task, irrespective of their experience or age in the area of renting.
It is recommended that first-time tenants - young or old should keep the process of seeking a home as focussed and simple as possible. Figures from letting agents suggest that Britain's need for rental properties continues to grow. In fact, the total tenants have outgrown the number of rental apartments available in London.
There are simple guidelines which can help tenants navigate the process of renting a short let with ease from property hunting to signing a tenancy agreement, in a more trouble-free manner.
It is good to be aware of the average rental rates in the targeted area of London, to be mentally prepared when looking for a short term let within the desired price range. Usually, it is a good idea to consult the local lettings agent of that specific area for a clearer idea to know how much is the expected rent to be paid pay for a particular type of short let property. At times, changing the location even a wee bit is able to fetch a better deal in the same price as compared to another location.
One should also research thoroughly about the lettings agent or landlord involved as lettings as such is an unregulated industry which means that the rental industry is not subject to any Government legislation, meaning anyone can set up as a letting agent for both short lets and long lets.
It is also important to ensure that the landlord or lettings agent protects the deposit through a tenancy deposit scheme, such as the TDS, which guards against possible misappropriation of funds. One must also check the available brochures and pictures in detail so as to make sure what they are aspiring for. Essential paperwork and all documents should be signed and agreed by both landlord and tenant.
First time tenants should be more careful if they are getting into shared tenancies, which contain a joint liability clause and means that each tenant is responsible for the actions of the co-tenants for the duration of the tenancy. It is therefore of utmost importance to make sure that the sharer or co-tenant is a reliable person. In case a guarantor is required when sharing, the guarantor must understand that they are guaranteeing all responsibilities contained in the tenancy agreement.
Keeping the above points in mind finding an apartment on rent, whether it is a short term or a long term letting, will become easier and safer for the first time tenants.
