Making a good impression on a potential landlord is important. If you really want to move into their property, there are ways you can demonstrate why you would be the best candidate and stand out from the competition. So, how do landlords choose tenants?
Landlords are looking for reliable and trustworthy people to live in their properties. There are mandatory checks that all landlords and letting agents must carry out, such as checks on your ID and finances. They will also look at your suitability, in terms of your behaviour as a tenant. If you have a reference from a previous landlord, this can be an advantage. Also, asking the right questions when viewing the property can show that you would make a responsible tenant.
Read on to get some tips on how to look good for a landlord, what checks they perform and what you can do to outshine the competition.
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What Does a Landlord Look for in a Tenant?
When a landlord is choosing a tenant, there are two aspects that they take into consideration. There are the background checks that must be performed and there is your overall attitude and behaviour.
What Checks Are Done for Renting in the UK?
To be able to rent in the UK you will be asked to provide:
Evidence you have the right to live in the UK i.e. Valid Passport or visa.
Proof of income - They will likely ask for past bank statements, payslips from employment or benefits statements.
Credit check - with your permission they will run a credit check, known as a ‘soft search’. This doesn’t affect your credit score in any way but is used to identify if you’ve ever had any adverse history such as bankruptcy or CCJ’s.
References - Usually a reference will be sought from your employer, and if applicable, from a previous landlord.
To learn more about what documents you may present and more detail on the checks involved take a look at the Government guidance on private renting.
How Should You Act When Viewing a House?
Your behaviour can have a big impact on whether the landlord or estate agent thinks you would be a good fit for them. When viewing a house consider the following:
Ask the right questions - Discuss what is included with the property, such as,
Is it furnished or unfurnished?
What is the energy rating and estimated cost of the utilities?
What council tax band is it?
Can you decorate and are there any specific conditions if so?
Who is responsible for garden maintenance?
Are there smoke alarms/carbon monoxide monitors fitted?
What are the neighbours like?
All of these questions show that you are thinking responsibly about the property and are not entering into the contract of renting lightly.
Other important ways to show the landlord why they should choose you:
Be punctual - Ensure that you turn up on time, or if you need to re-arrange let them know with as much notice as possible.
Dress appropriately - To leave a good impression make sure your clothes are clean and smart. There’s no need for formal attire but being well presented can be a representation of how you look after things.
Be polite - Offer to take off your shoes as you go inside - a small detail but one many may overlook.
Be respectful - There may be tenants currently in the property, try not to barrage them with questions and be mindful of their possessions.
What Not to Say and Do When Viewing a House
When viewing a house it's important to visit with who you will be living with, or if you are to live there alone, go with someone you trust. This is so you can ask the right questions, but also get another perspective on the property.
When visiting a house, be aware of the following:
Pointing out things you don’t like, especially if they can’t be changed as it makes it look as if you are wasting the agent or landlord's time. They may have also made improvements to the property in their taste and could find it insulting.
Discussing things such as having parties and anything that could be concluded as disruptive behaviour.
If there are current tenants in the property - don’t touch or move their possessions.
Don’t talk on the phone - if you get a call, tell them you’ll call them back. You should do your best to provide your full attention in an appointment.
Transport - If you have driven, ensure you have parked appropriately, don’t block any neighbouring driveways or block any access.
Ultimately, you want to look good for a landlord, so that you have a place to call home, so putting your best foot forward and making a good impression is important.
How to Be a Good Tenant
Once you have been accepted and are a tenant in the property, although it is your home, be sure to keep your landlord happy by:
Not making changes to the property without permission from the landlord or agent.
Being polite with neighbours - You don’t have to be best friends, but ensure you are not causing them any reason to complain about you.
Housekeeping - Keep the property clean and tidy.
Reporting issues promptly - If there are any issues with the property that need to be addressed by the agent or landlord, be sure to report these as early as possible so they can take action. Report issues by email and keep evidence of this, just in case you need to refer back to it again.
Don’t break the rules - If there are certain conditions, such as making formal request to keep a pet, then respect that rule. If property damage occurs due to un-approved pets this may harm extending your agreement and is a breach of contract.
If there are any appointments you need to be present for, such as gas and boiler checks, installations or tradespeople visits, try to make yourself available, or provide easy access for the Agent or Landlord to attend the appointment, as these are usually to benefit you and the property and may be in relation to a legal requirement.
Residential Lettings and Property Management Services with MOVR
At MOVR, we know what a good tenant looks like. We can partner landlords and tenants together, making sure they are the right match. Our residential property service handles everything from finding the right tenants to collecting rent. We even offer fully-managed services meaning you can focus on other areas of your portfolio. Get in touch with us today.
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