Letting Agents or Private Landlords? Which option is best when looking to rent a property?

There is a record high number of private landlords and more than 12,000 letting agencies in England. Indeed, some reports say that by 2021, a quarter of households will be renting. So, to go with a private landlord or a letting agency is a very important decision. What should you consider?

Examination shows that there are two kinds of landlords: professional and accidental. Professional landlords look after a significant number of properties as a full-time job. While accidental landlords are a little different. There are those who have purchased a second property or have inherited one. Accidental landlords can also be acting on someone else’s behalf. The could be looking after a property in the name of another person.

How do landlords generally (all kinds of ) advertise?

Public landlord properties advertise in websites such as Gumtree or on social media. Their adverts are also placed in more old fashioned methods. Local newspapers and magazines are common, as are shop windows and notice boards. Word of mouth can also play a vital role in circulating the knowledge that a property is available for rent.

Letting agencies are a little different. Most are part of a nationwide business staffed by professionals. They market their properties differently and place ads on well-known websites like Rightmove or Zoopla.

What are the differences and which is better?

As more official businesses, letting agencies have more money to work with. They use workmen to carry out repairs on properties when needed. And ensure all the necessary safety checks on gas, electricity, and central heating.

Letting agencies create inventories and replace anything that is faulty or unsafe. They arrange rental collection and carry out their own personal checks on tenants. This ensures that renters are able to pay and safeguards their business. Be aware that these services lead to higher rental costs.

Why then could it be better to go with a private landlord?

You get more of a one-to-one contact with a private landlord. This can lead to a closer relationship and an understanding of your situation. This can work in the renters’ favour. The landlord may tolerate the occasional late payment of rent or allow pets. The low cost of advertising means they may offer cheaper rent.

But there are, of course, downsides. Private landlords may not be aware of their legal responsibilities. They must perform safety checks on appliances and decorate the property. Another major downside is the lack of a fixed organisation. There may not be an office to phone or visit. Private landlords may live or work outside of the local area or even the country. They may be unwell or unsuitable for the job. It’s a gamble and success will depend upon the landlord.

EAN Content

Content shared by this account is either news shared free by third parties or sponsored (paid for) content from third parties. Please be advised that links to third party websites are not endorsed by Estate Agent Networking - Please do your own research before committing to any third party business promoted on our website.

You May Also Enjoy

Estate Agents should not all look the same
Estate Agent Talk

How to Become an Estate Agent with No Experience

Breaking into the property industry can seem intimidating – especially if you’ve never worked in it before. But the good news? You don’t need years of experience or fancy qualifications to start a career as an estate agent in the UK. In fact, many successful estate agents started with no background in property at all.…
Read More
buying at auction uk
Estate Agent Talk

9 Advantages of Selling Your House by Auction

Selling your house by auction might seem like a daunting prospect, but it comes with numerous advantages that can make it a highly attractive option. While the traditional method of selling through an estate agent has its place, auctions are increasingly becoming a popular choice for homeowners looking for a swift and reliable sale. Here…
Read More
Breaking News

Majority of Tenants Unsure How Changes Will Affect Them, Says LRG

With major changes to the private rental sector on the horizon, 62% of tenants say they don’t know whether the government’s Renters’ Rights Bill will address their concerns – highlighting a growing need for clearer communication around what the reforms will mean in practice. LRG’s latest Lettings Report shows that while landlords are widely aware…
Read More
Home and Living

Perfume Storage Tips: How to Keep Your Fragrances Fresh

Perfumes are sensitive compositions that can be significantly affected by how they are stored. Proper storage ensures that your favorite fragrances stay fresh and maintain their intended scent profile. In this article, we’ll explore practical, fun, and effective tips to help you preserve your perfumes in perfect condition. Understanding the Sensitivity of Perfumes Perfumes are…
Read More
Breaking News

Renters’ Rights Bill Delay Causing Uncertainty for Tenants and Landlords

Ministers need to tell landlords and tenants when measures in the Renters’ Rights Bill will take effect the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) is today warning. The Government pledged last year to abolish Section 21 ‘no explanation’ repossessions and to make other changes to the rental market this summer. With the Bill not scheduled to…
Read More
Breaking News

Breaking Property News 02/04/25

Daily bite-sized proptech and property news in partnership with Proptech-X.   Made Snappy 360 appoints new CEO and Sales Director to accelerate growth in the property technology space Made Snappy 360, the fast-growing proptech company known for its virtual tours and floor plan technology, has appointed industry veteran Mark Beresford-Ward as its new Chief Executive…
Read More