Advice for First-Time Landlords in Neath

In this three-minute read, we share five top tips if you’re thinking about renting out your property for the first time.

Deciding to become a landlord is a big step.

It can be both exciting and daunting.

Here at Alison George, we’ve got some tips on what you need to think about when renting out a property so you can make your first venture a smooth one.

Do some market research

To work out how much rent you could be expecting, have a look at similar properties in the same area in Neath. There are quite a few differences in asking price depending on the area - a 3 bed house could be 450pcm in one area, and a very similar property as much as 750 a month a couple of miles down the road. If you’re not sure how much you should be asking, arrange a valuation with us. We can also help you make sure your property is aimed at the right tenants.

Make sure your property is ready for your tenants

It’s vital to ensure that your property is tenant-ready. A well-maintained home is more attractive to any new occupants and a few improvements could make all the difference. Ensure that outstanding repairs are complete before any viewings take place.

Consider offering your property unfurnished. The demand for furnished properties in Neath is very low. If you do decide to furnish your property, understand you'll be attracting a certian type of tenant that isnt in the market as often as you'll need (Insurance claims, corporate lets, seperations) and be sure to choose neutral colours and simple styles. Never furnish a rental property with items of sentimental value. 

Understand your responsibilities

Being a landlord can take up a lot of your time. It’s your responsibility to take care of any major issues which may arise and these can occur at any time of the day or night. Some, like a gas leak, may require your immediate attention. Your tenants will also look to you to carry out repairs, and maintenance unless you appoint a letting agent to manage your property. Speak to us to find out how we can help.

Make sure you comply with the law

When it comes to being a landlord, there’s a jungle of laws and regulations that you need to navigate through. To begin with you'll need a license, you need to understand what you can and cant charge for, the agreement must be correct  and you must make sure that you’ve taken the correct steps to register and protect your tenant’s deposit.

Ensure that the property has an up-to-date gas safety check – which should be carried out on an annual basis. Any rooms with an open fire will need a carbon monoxide detector, stairs have handrails, and the property complies with HHSRS. Your property must also have an Energy Performance Certificate before you can offer it for rent. if you're holding any data electronically (emails, tenancy agreements, rent records, deposit protection records) you'll need to be registered with the ICO....

The list is long, and it's getting longer. We ensure all the properties we rent out and manage and their Landlords are fully compliant with all the relevant legal requirements.

Use a letting agent

You may decide that you want to manage your property yourself.

However, the right letting agent can make your first experience as a landlord stress-free, act as a buffer between you and your tenants, and provide expertise and support if things don’t go according to plan.

Here at Alison George, we’re with you every step of the way. Get in touch with your questions and one of our experts will be happy to help.