The haart guide to renting

Renting a property has never been easier with haart. To help you, we have put together a simple guide to take you step by step through the process of finding your new home.

First steps to finding the right property

• Whatever your previous experience or if it's your first move, your letting agent will try to make it as easy and trouble free as possible.
• Be as clear as possible about what you are looking for.
• Have a budget in mind.
• Make sure your agent is always looking out for the right property for you as they can go very quickly.

Benefits of renting

• Renting has never been easier, and with house prices continuing to rise, renting can sometimes be the best thing to do, particularly if you are saving for a deposit.
• When it comes to finding a property, try web-based tools such as the haart Property Search facility, as this will help you find the right type of property in a matter of seconds.

Rental costs

• A tenant always pays a deposit before moving in to a rental property.
• If handled correctly, the deposit remains the property of the tenant until the tenant leaves the property.
• It is recommended that this amount be held by the letting agent whether they are managing the property or not.
• It should not be used for any purpose other than as stated in the agreement.
• Make sure any agent you use is a member of the Association for Residential Letting Agencies and subscribes to their code of practice.
• Always look for a letting agent that carries the SAFE Agent kite mark such as haart as this will ensure that your deposit is protected at all times.

Things to remember

• When you find a property you like you will need to be ready to provide references and a deposit.
• You then need to concentrate on the move itself getting in touch with utility providers to arrange your gas and electric connection.
• You also need to think about insuring your possessions.

Expert advice

• If you have any questions whatsoever about any aspect of renting, the staff at haart will be only too pleased to help you. Click here to find your nearest haart lettings agents.