Pros/Cons of a 12 month rental contract over a 6 month

Alfie1999

I've managed to sell my house (fingers cross it goes through) and i'm looking to rent.

When i've viewed houses i've mentioned the possibility of a 12 month contract and agents always seem delighted with the idea.

This has aroused my suspicions as anything that is good for the agent is likely to be bad for me but I can't see many downsides as we want to rent long term (18mnths - 2 years).

Premier_2

The upside for you is that you get security of tenure for 12mths rather than just 6mths.

The downside is that you will be tied to the agreement for 12 months, so if circumstances change (you move job, the property is not as you would like, etc), you may still be required to pay rent for a property you don't want.

silvercar

This has aroused my suspicions as anything that is good for the agent is likely to be bad for me

Not necessarily as the agent is just keen to get a years worth of commission up front, you get to stay in a place for at least a year.

sdooley

well if they are that enthusiastic maybe you should try to knock 20 quid off the rent

Icey77

You can always ask for a 6 month break clause so that should you need / want to leave at 6 months you can do so without breaching the tenancy.

I always put this into my 12 month agreements - suits me and the tenants. If it's not used then no problem.

There would be notice periods detailed in the contract for the break clause so you'd have to give 1 months notice but that shouldn't be a issue for you.

Alfie1999

Thanks guys.

I'll take 12 months as it's a lovely house in an ideal location.