In today’s challenging rental market, finding the right property can be tough. Demand is high, and landlords are often faced with numerous applicants. This means that being prepared can make all the difference in securing your ideal home.

If you would like to apply for one of our rental properties, please read the advice below

To give yourself the best chance, it's important to have everything in order. This includes:

• Ensure that you have the correct contact details for your employer reference to be carried out, this can turn out to be a lengthy process especially if your employer is a large organization, such as the NHS, Civil service, etc. You will also be asked to supply the contact details for a landlord reference, this will need to be an email address and telephone number. If you live in a managed rental property, the details will need to be for the letting Agent.

• Financial documents: Proof of income (wage slips) bank statements and other financial statements. If you are self-employed, you may be required to pass on your accountants’ details for confirmation of earnings or provide a SA302 statement. If you are self-employed but you carry out work for the same company it may be worth asking if they would be happy to confirm your income and employment, but always ensure that any contact email address is connected to the company.

•  If you are in receipt of benefit payments, Housing benefit, Universal credit, or tax credits, make sure that you have copies of the amount of income you receive. Please also be aware that an Agent or Landlord may request that your housing allowance is paid directly to them. There may also be a top up of rent that needs to be paid if your benefits do not cover the whole amount of the rent.

• You may require a Guarantor, which can be very difficult to find for some applicants. It is a great responsibility, and the guarantor should be made aware of this before the process begins, references will also need to be carried out. If its possible make sure you have a guarantor in place before you start your search. Don’t be surprised or offended if you ask a close friend or relation and they say no, its a big ask for anyone to take on.

• Right to Rent documentation will need to be provided to the landlord or the agent to prove you have the Right to Rent in England, please visit GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) and check what documentation you will require. The Right to Rent is for any persons 18 or over even if you were born in England. The Right to Rent does not apply to Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

• Being ready to move in as soon as possible can make you a more attractive candidate to a landlord.

 

If you would like any information on our rental properties, please don’t hesitate to contact us, either by phone or email. We will try our best to get back to you as soon as possible