“The Courteous Tenant”

Rental Property Viewings

Most people rarely move house.  Therefore many of them often have little idea of the etiquette required if the stress of moving is to be minimised. Our job as progressive letting agents is to help Landlords and Tenants minimise this stress.  We try and make them see the world through each other’s eyes and advise accordingly.  Tenants will expect to attend rental property viewings to ascertain as to whether the property is going to be suitable for them.

For example, Landlords, especially those who are currently living in the property themselves, often go to great lengths to prepare for a rental property viewing. This might mean cleaning the house thoroughly, making sure everything, from cushions to children’s toys, is in its place.  It might include lighting a fire, switching on the lights, arranging fresh flowers and mowing the lawn.  They may even send their teenager out to walk the dog in anticipation of the arrival of the esteemed Tenant.

The agreed viewing time comes, and goes. The Landlord looks anxiously out of the window. Twenty minutes passes, and then wonders if they have got the time wrong. So they wait. But still nothing, and the pressure in the household mounts.

Viewings

When looking at property, communication and straight-talking are critical to minimise stress. So if you are a prospective Tenant and you are running late, or decide you don’t like the look of the property you have arranged to view on arrival, be assured that the Landlord would far rather you told them so than simply drive on.

Likewise, if the inside of the property just doesn’t feel right then don’t waste your time, or the Landlord’s, by indulging their attempts at polite conversation. Be frank, and politely move on.

Also, be sure to give prompt, sincere and detailed feedback to the letting agent following a viewing.  This will not only enable them to communicate better with the Landlord, but also help them gain a more comprehensive understanding of your requirements as a Tenant.  As a result, you could possibly save yourself time and hassle in the future.

Callaways specialise in lettings in Sussex.  Call us on 01273 735237 of email enquiries@callaways.co.uk for a no-obligation chat.