Guide to Letting your Property

If you decide to let your property, there are a number of things to think about. Darlows estate and lettings agency have been letting properties in South Wales for over 25 years and know the lettings property market inside out. We're here for you - see below for info on how we can help you through every step of the lettings process.

Step one - Book a Market Appraisal 

First, book a market appraisal to find out the up-to-date rental value for your property. Arrange a free, no-obligation market appraisal with Darlows for personalised advice on local property values plus information about current market conditions. Book a Market Appraisal here.

Step two - Decide how hands on you would like to be

Managing a property can quickly become a full-time job! Darlows offers an option of three property management services to help landlords; full management, rent collection, and let only. 

Choosing which property management service depends on several things, including: 

  1. How much time do you have to spare?
  2. Are you able to manage maintenance and repairs?
  3. Do you want to deal with arrears, should they happen?

Our expert property managers will always keep you updated on your property and tenants, with regular statements and personalised service.

Step three - Putting your property on the market

Next, once you’ve decided how involved you would like to be, Darlows will help find your ideal tenants. Every level of Property Management service includes our Enhanced Marketing package, including; 

  • Professional photography and video
  • Premium RightMove listings 
  • Attending any viewing requests 
  • Advertising on our website and social media

Using our exclusive marketing software, Darlows can advertise your property to prospective tenants that other agents won’t be able to reach. This gives you the best possible chances of finding reliable, trustworthy tenants. Find out more about our Enhanced Marketing services.

Step four - How to deal with receiving offers

Once on the market, your property will start receiving offers! Potential tenants will contact Darlows with an offer either verbally (over the phone or in-person) or in writing (via post or email). 

Any conditions around this offer must also be communicated to the agents. You are not obligated to accept a particular offer – feel free to choose which potential tenant(s) suit you best. Darlows are here to discuss your options and any particular concerns.

Step five - Choosing a tenant

After choosing a tenant, Darlows will complete all referencing and make sure you’re safety compliant. This includes; 

  • Referencing and Right to Rent checks including credit checks, employment, and references from former landlords 
  • Organising any safety compliance certificates 
  • Arranging deposits 
  • Take move-in monies and ensure the tenancy agreement has been signed 

If successful, Darlows will collect any deposits necessary to start the tenancy i.e. first month's rent and security deposit, plus provide copies of the inventory list and condition report.

Step six - Moving tenants in

Once all is complete, you can set a moving day that is mutually convenient for yourself and the new tenants. 

If the lettings agency holds the keys to the property, you will need to instruct them to release these to the tenants on moving day. If the property is to be managed by a property management service through the lettings agency, the tenants must be given the contact details. 

Congratulations on successfully letting your property! 

Speak to your local Darlows branch

If you would like to speak to your local Darlows lettings branch about letting your property, visit our branch finder page - our dedicated lettings teams will be delighted to help you.