First time buyer, strange email from estate agent.

BusinessStudent

Hello,


I have contacted the local estate agent 4 times in the past 10 days asking for a viewing of 2 properties. Only today have they managed to arrange a viewing of a flat that appears to be rented. I am interested in viewing the property to buy. The estate agent have sent me a strange email stating that I should not indicate that I am looking to buy for myself but should insist I am looking as a landlord as they do not want to scare the tenant for the current owner and jeopardise his rental.


This sounds really strange to me? I will be a first time buyer. What do you think about this email? It makes me feel rather uncomfortable!

rach_k

I'd say it's up to you whether you think that's right or wrong.

However, I will say that we viewed a property (to buy to live in) with the existing tenants there and it was horrible. Obviously they knew we were considering buying their home which would result in them being asked to leave and, although they didn't say or do anything in particular, it wasn't a pleasant atmosphere, almost menacing in fact. So, unless you feel strongly about being honest with the current tenants, it might bode for a nicer viewing if you just go along with it.

kinger101

My advice would be to not look at properties which are currently tenanted. If you do, do not spend any money (surveys etc) until tenants are out. If it goes well, they leave in say 2 months when their notice expires. If they're skint, they may wait to be evicted which could take 6 months.

Actually, if you do like the place, it's in your interest to make sure the tenants know you are NOT a landlord.....that way they may start looking for somewhere else to live.

The current owner is a plonker. If he wants to sell it to anyone other than landlords, he should get the tenants out first.

fishpond

You need vacant possession, if it were me, I would run a mile.
Unless you are in no rush to move in and it is a bargain.