questions from a first time renter to be!

yonny_2

Hi there, we've sold our house and will be moving into rented as we havent found anywhere to buy and we dont want to risk losing the sale!
I have never rented before and am unsure whether to go the agency route or the private landlord route - Im sure there are pros and cons for each.

I have no references having only been a home owner so what would I be asked for to prove my worth?
We're both gainfully employed thank goodness!

- I also have two very well behaved dogs who live in our conservatory -
NOT the house so a place allowing dogs is a must but seems to be hard to come by !
Can any landlords or tenants who've been in the same position help? where would I find out about private landlords in any given area? any tips for totally new to the world of renting?
ps Ive just seen the advice for renters thread so am off to read that now!but thank you for any more advice given!:beer:

poppysocks1

When I have looked for places to rent the local paper is good, as there is an accommodation section and I think rightmove has a "To Rent" section listing available properties.

Regarding the dogs some landlords are ok with pets, but you need to ask when you phone up (whether you do the private route or the agency route). I have rented both privately and through agencies - both have pros and cons as you say, at least privately they dont charge the fees etc. Just make sure you read the conditions of your contract thoroughly and also its helpful to ensure that when you do move in to the flat we took photographs of each room, and flagged up any issues immediately so that there are no problems when we move out.

Good luck. I am sure others can give you more advice.

Its also helpful to find out from the landlord who the elec and gas supplier are, and take readings when you move into the property. Dont forget as well that you need to take out contents insurance for your things. Infact the website iammoving.com is helpful for a list of things to do and people to advise.

jonbjuk

yonny wrote: »

Hi there, we've sold our house and will be moving into rented as we havent found anywhere to buy and we dont want to risk losing the sale!
I have never rented before and am unsure whether to go the agency route or the private landlord route - Im sure there are pros and cons for each.

I have no references having only been a home owner so what would I be asked for to prove my worth?
We're both gainfully employed thank goodness!

- I also have two very well behaved dogs who live in our conservatory -
NOT the house so a place allowing dogs is a must but seems to be hard to come by !
Can any landlords or tenants who've been in the same position help? where would I find out about private landlords in any given area? any tips for totally new to the world of renting?
ps Ive just seen the advice for renters thread so am off to read that now!but thank you for any more advice given!:beer:

Have you considered getting the dogs put down? Would make things easier.

princessamy86

That's really helpful of you jonbjuk! Moving on...lots of landlords don't actually mind dogs, some might ask for an extra deposit and that you have the carpets properly cleaned but you just have to ask the question. They will credit check you and get employment references if you go through an agency, lots of private landlords also do these too. Expect to pay quite a lot if you go through an agency for the checks they do! Check the paper, gumtree for private landlords, if you decide to have a look through agencies it's mostly legwork that provides the most results! They should have a list of what is available if you go in.

BettyDebt

We have just recently moved into rented accommodation and have 2 dogs and 3 cats. There are plenty landlords out there willing to let to animal owners. If contacting estate agents dont take their word whether a landlord allows pets - get them to check. We said we'd even be willing to let the ll check on us more regularly in the beginning. However it wasn't an issue. We made sure whoever we rang up we stated from the start do you allow pets. Whether the animal lives in the house/ conservatory is irrelevant (though assume you don't mean a glass conservatory as these become death traps when the sun is out!). As for checks they do a basic credit check. work reference and if need be a bank reference. I don't think its a problem if you havent rented before. Everyone has to start somewhere!

All I would say is be persistant, don't expect to rent the most prestine, modern house. Within a month of searching we had 18 houses we had seen and were willing to take pets.

Good luck!

yonny_2

Thank you princessamy,poppysocks and betty for your helpful advice!!
Its all a bit daunting!! but Im sure I can get sorted!
Thanks again
Yonny