Get with the programme, say tenants.

Half of tenants believe the tenancy application process is slow and outdated, according to market research company, Populus, who conducted a survey on behalf of tenancy software specialist OnBoard Pro. 1,000 Private Rental Sector tenants were questioned to give an independent analysis of the technology used in the lettings market. The results raised some thought provoking points about current technology and how improvement could mean a better experience for tenants and more efficient processes for landlords and agents.

The technology used varies but paperwork and manual processes occupy a huge amount of employees’ time. 52 per cent of tenants agreed that tenancy applications are reliant on outdated technology and feel that the efficiency of the application processes are not adding value or positivity to their customer experience.

The survey also highlighted that an overwhelming majority of tenants would like to be able to pre complete applications before meeting an agent and are keen to migrate from paper forms to apply from home. Tenants prepared to pre-apply and tee-up their referees in this way can reduce the agent’s workload and put themselves in a better position to secure their property of choice.

Whilst increased regulation has been proposed, the tenancy 61 per cent thought a more innovative technical solution would be better than legislation. OnBoard Pro CEO Stephen Purvis said, “Tenants feel that the time and efficiency of the application processes hinder their experience. There is a clear expectation that technology would improve the process.”

Natalie Elphick, Chair of the Government Independent Market Review said: “Technological advances, like OnBoard Pro, support a modern approach to lettings which is what tenants want. I am sure the lettings industry would support the success of these new applications, to provide better value to people renting, saving time and money.”

OnBoard Pro has been developed to address the issues highlighted above and provides a faster, more efficient and cost effective solution for agents, landlords and tenants alike.

This pre-tenancy technology offers a complete and affordable solution for the rental property market by providing the tools to comprehensively check the suitability of tenants, record detailed photographic inventories, submit gas and electricity meter readings, record starting dates for local council tax and produce digitally signed AST contracts. This is all done from within the same application and can be completed at the property in under an hour.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

Real-life value of the most famous Christmas film homes

The real-life value of the most famous Christmas film homes, from budget classics to multimillion-pound mansions New research has gathered and analysed the estimated valuations of real homes featured in popular Christmas films, ranking them by cost. The priciest homes are featured in The Holiday, Trading Places, and Home Alone, with Amanda’s home from The…
Read More →
Estate Agent Talk

77% of buyers refuse to buy a flood risk property

Despite 4.7 million English homes facing flood risk New research from Lyons Bowe has revealed that 77% of homebuyers would not consider purchasing a property in a flood risk area, despite more than 4.7 million homes across England currently being deemed at risk of flooding. The findings come as the Government launches a new flood taskforce amid…
Read More →
Letting Agent Talk

Poor Communication becomes Expensive at Scale

The hidden cost of fragmented property management By Adam Hills, Client Services Director, LRG Living Markets A landlord asks for an update on a repair. The property manager asks the contractor, who is waiting for access from the tenant. Meanwhile, the accounts team has received an invoice but cannot tell whether the work is complete.…
Read More →
Estate Agents should not all look the same
Estate Agent Talk

When Estate Agents Decide to Go Solo

Leaving an established estate agency to work independently gives experienced agents more control over fees, client service and working hours. It also brings responsibility for compliance, cash flow and every part of the customer experience. Before handing in your notice, test the idea against realistic sales volumes, local competition and the amount of time you…
Read More →
Estate Agent Talk

What Should Buyers Ask Before Reserving a New Build?

Research from Skipton Building Society has found that 44% of aspiring first time buyers would rather buy a new build than an older property, with just 30% favouring an older build. Modern fittings and appliances were the biggest draw, cited by over half of those who preferred a new build, alongside the promise of lower…
Read More →
Breaking News

The UK cities with the largest property price increases revealed

A new study has unveiled the most challenging UK cities for first-time buyers. Newry leads Northern Ireland’s ranking, with a property price increase of 12.8%, while Hull leads Great Britain’s ranking, recording an increase of 6.6%. The research examined data from HM Land Registry to reveal the cities that have faced the highest property price…
Read More →