It can be difficult finding safe and affordable rooms in shared accommodation.
You may often fall short on success, especially if you have a limited budget or limited time.
In our thought-provoking article, we take a look at the 3 best ways to resolve this, which include
using a reputable letting agent
carrying out due diligence on the letting agent and landlord
viewing the property in person
Viewing the property in person
 It is imperative to view a property in person so that you can get a feel for the area and for the house. Moving home, wether it is a purchase or a rented space, you must make sure you are comfortable there as it is a big decision.
As soon as you enter a house you will get a feel if you like it or not, and trust those gut feelings. Whilst you are there you can check out other housemates, the neighbours, your commute to work, how close are the shops and pubs! Make sure that know what is important to you and your happiness and when you are looking around the house and then the local area that your criteria is met. Remember that your are interviewing the housemates/surrounding/neighbours/commute as much as they are interview you!
Using a reputable letting agent
Using a reputable and professional agent is key for landlord and tenant.
As a tenant make sure Your Letting Agent Is Regulated By A Redress Scheme and use the gov.uk website or https://www.theprs.co.uk to check this out. The industry is not regulated but those who adhere to the rules will sign up to a government approved redress scheme which will give you peace of mind they know what they are doing.
A professional agent will also have a set of guidelines to what a landlord needs to adhere to. Therefore you can be more confident that the properties you view have been checked, have up to date certificates and you will get good service once the AST is signed.
For a landlord you will be assured that the tenants have been thoroughly reference and the agent thinks they are a good fit rather then just ticking of another check in that month! Again you can feel safe that the agent is lead by the redress guidelines so can be an additional and professional member of your team.
Carrying out due diligence on the letting agent and landlord
Even though the agent and landlord belong to redress schemes or associations you must still do your own research on both parties. Meeting them both in person is a great way to gauge if you will be able to communicate with the landlord if things go wrong, if they will have your interests as a priority and if the agent can be trusted to fall back to if the landlord does not stick to he’s work.
Also have a look a their websites, look at the testimonials and follow them on social media. You will quickly build up a picture and you can decide if they are someone you want to deal with.
Feeling a little stuck in the mud?
It's essential to get yourself in the right frame of mind to start achieving the results you want. Once you are aware of these common drains on your time and results, it becomes so much easier to overcome them.
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