If you haven’t used an Estate Agent before, or just need to refresh your memory on what happens next, this is where we provide a brief guide to each process. Whether you plan to sell, buy, let or rent, these guides should make the task a little easier. Print out and tick off the stages as you go.
Budget
Calculate what you can afford to pay per week on rent, not forgetting that you will also have to pay a deposit, which will be registered with an independent body until the end of the tenancy, and there will be other associated costs. A Franklyn James rental negotiator can run through with you exactly what you will need to pay for at the beginning of a tenancy.
Check that your budget is adequate for the sort of property you want in your chosen area.
Viewings
Make sure your requirements regarding the property, parking, furniture and start date are clear when you start viewing available properties. Don’t stray too far from your maximum budget. When you find a suitable property, check out the background information before making an offer. Ask to see the exact parking space, get the council tax band and availability date in writing first.
Offer
Firstly, pay a holding deposit to demonstrate that you are serious. Then make a reasonable offer based on what similar properties are renting for, or what the landlord is currently receiving for the property. Suggest your preferred tenancy start date. Once the offer is accepted, the property will be removed from the market whilst referencing is carried out. Complete forms promptly to enable referencing to take place.
Referencing
An independent referencing agency will obtain references from your employer and a previous landlord where possible. Whilst this is taking place, get the balance of funds ready for transfer.
Contract
When satisfactory references have been received, the Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement (contract) will be drawn up and both you and the landlord will be asked to sign. Read the ASTA carefully and question, in writing, any dates, amounts or clauses which are different from what you expected. Find out which utility companies you will have to contact at the start of the tenancy.
Start of new tenancy
Pay the balance of funds, including any fees, in plenty of time so that it has cleared before you collect the keys from the estate agency. Contact relevant utility companies and the local council regarding new council tax liability and consider taking out contents insurance. When you receive a copy of the check-in report and inventory, read these immediately and compare them with what you see in the property. Raise any inconsistencies within five working days of receipt of the report, as any areas or items which are damaged or missing at the end of the tenancy may well be charged to you.
All information provided correct at time of publication.
Docklands" Nicholas has been very passionate and professional all the time and I can't thank him enough for everything he's done for me. With friendly manner, he rang me first a couple of times wanting to show me properties which isn't even on the market yet that I'd be interested which I really appreciated. He knows exactly what he's doing and I can tell he thoroughly enjoys his job. Don't hesitate to contact him if you're looking for a property to rent in E14, you'll get everything you deserve. "
JooJuly, 2017
Limehouse" Franklyn James did an excellent job letting out my flat in Limehouse. I had previously used Foxtons but I feel their standard have dropped recently and think this is likely because they do not have an office which focuses exclusively on the Limehouse area. Franklyn James do and it shows as they really seem to understand the area and the value proposition of my property.
It is also worth noting that the level of service they provide is very high, both from the Sales team but also Property Management and Accounts Management. Swift and accurate responses at all times. "
BenSeptember, 2017
" I have been completely thrilled with the service that Mark has provided.
He handled all negotiations with such professionalism and was able to secure a fantastic price in a very uneasy market.
Mark's ability to read people meant that all appropriate leads were followed up and he didn't waste time where it was clear people were not interested. Once the offer was in Mark continued to work tirelessly to ensure both parties were moving forward and remained positive and friendly throughout. I would certainly not hesitate to recommend Mark Kimber to anyone who needs to sell a property. "
J JibbAugust, 2017
" Mark was an extremely helpful in the buying of our first property. Friendly, informative, always available and quickly responsive to help us through the process every step of the way. I would thoroughly recommend his services as an estate agent. Thanks Mark! "
William BatemanNovember, 2017
Limehouse" In one word "Perfection". Dovile's services were second to none.
From day one she was happy to help with any query of ours. She was literally always there throughout the whole renting process. Not only did she contributed for the whole process to run as smooth as possible but also she always had a smile on her face which is vital for customer satisfaction.
Cheers Dovile!!! "
George/EleniApril, 2018
Limehouse" David found the buyer for my property, successfully identifying someone who could proceed quickly with the sale. Throughout the process David was helpful, professional and always replied swiftly to queries, keeping in daily contact. He helped to ensure a smooth sale throughout and was the key link to ensuring that solicitors on both sides spoke with each other and all outstanding issues could be resolved. He relayed messages between the buyer and myself on a regular basis to keep processes moving on the sale and keep me reassured throughout. I was really pleased with the services David provided and would highly recommend this agent. "
Ms DeenJanuary, 2018
" Mark did a great job of arranging our viewing, showing us the property and answering all of our follow-up questions. Mark was very quick to respond to email, which was greatly appreciated. "
JoshApril, 2018
Docklands" Stephanie provided a professional service through out the whole process. She kept updated with everything that was going on. Will recommend to others. "
Z.YApril, 2018
Docklands" Nicholas is very professional and friendly. I would recommend to anyone looking for a new place. Great positive attitude, flexibility, and responsiveness. Strongly recommend! "
JaneOctober, 2017
Limehouse" David has been amazing and completely professional in our first property purchase. We wanted to see the property a number of times before deciding and he has been so accommodating. David is/was very easy to reach and always contactable for any questions throughout the whole process. David is probably the most patient and down to earth estate agent I've met - Thank you David! I would recommend to anyone. "
RachelleJanuary, 2018
Docklands
Limehouse
