All new tenants are asked a number of questions at the start of the renting process, so that we can build up the most accurate picture possible about your needs.
These questions will cover areas such as:
- What is my budget - how much can I afford to spend on rent, and what else other bills will I have that I must make sure I have enough funds to cover?
- What kind of property do I want to rent - flat, house or commercial premises? Am I happy to rent a room in a shared house or do I need more space for me and my family?
- Where do I need the rental property to be - close to a town or deep in the countryside? What amenities need to be close by?
- How big do I need the rental property to be - who is going to live there, or use it?
- What transport options are open to me, and can I get to and from the property easily and within my budget for travel?
The more details you can provide, the easier it will be to match you to your perfect rental home.
An early stage in the process will be gathering references, plus we require a number of financial and other criteria to be met. You must demonstrate proof of income at three times your rental budget, as well as be able to provide a guarantor. You must also be in a position to pay six or twelve months' rent up front.
If you pass these requirements, you can begin searching for a rental property. Take advantage of Residenza's advanced online search facilities to find the perfect premises in Balham or the surrounding areas. You can search by location, price or property type to narrow down results. Choose whether you want a garden, garage etc., and enter a minimum number of bedrooms. Take a careful look at the results, make a shortlist and arrange some viewings.
Property Viewings
Viewing your preferred properties is the next thing to do and we will be happy to book appointments on your behalf and accompany you if you wish. It is vital that you don't let your heart totally rule your decision making and that you stay focused on your list of requirements. Check out the whole of your allocated space and look for signs that the property is well maintained. It is a good idea to take someone with you for a second opinion and allow lots of time to look round. Research the local area and make sure you are happy with the neighbourhood and it amenities. If you are interested in a property, feel free to book subsequent viewings to ask anything you missed out first time round, but bear in mind that popular rental properties move extremely fast. Don't hang about for too long.
Making an Offer
When you find somewhere you would like to make an offer for, let us handle the logistics. We can deal with the landlord and negotiate the rental price, deposit and inclusive bills on your behalf. We will advise you on the paperwork you will need to provide, which typically will include a holding deposit, photo ID and proof of address for each applicant. It is also advisable to have the following to hand: address history, employment details or accounts if self-employed, current landlord details, bank account and referees.
Once you have been accepted as a tenant, we can help you sort other matters, such as tenants' liability insurance, deeds of guarantee, deposit transfers, reference reports etc., in return for a reasonable tenancy set up fee. We can also help with the check in and initial inventory. A special welcome pack will also offer advice on settling in, including utility bills, property contacts, insurance, gas safety certificates, repairs and maintenance arrangements and your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
