UK Landlord Forum / Life

I would welcome some advice re letting fees. The property in question is in a desirable location (in S London) and lets quickly and easily, usually no more than 3 viewings. The fee charged by the estate agent is approx the equivalent of about 1 1/2 months rent, which seems excessive! I am not local so can't show people round myself, does anyone know of a reliable agency that provides a good service for a more reasonable sum? Thanks

What does the EA do? Advertise and finders fee only?

You could try bartering with several of the local agents.  Tell them you think their fees are too high and play them off against each other for the best possible fees they can do.

Alternatively, if you can make the time, you could probably save a grand by using an online letting agent and arranging to do the viewings yourself on the same day.  Sounds as if you're probably after a fully managed service though, in which case 1 1/2 months rent in fees might just be the going rate...

Last year i had 4 agents come round and i bartered with all of them, and told them i was dealing with other agents to get a good deal.
And i was present at every viewing to vet the tenants myself.
Your Property, Your Rules.

They are after YOUR money, period, so you are in the drivers seat.

In Berkshire fee is between £200 - £400 for set up (ie finding-organising suitable tenant, and referencing). I am sure London prices will top that.

My advice advertise the property with an agent if at all possible. Save money

If 4 of us reply and they don't come back do we get a T shirt?

Quote from: boboff on January 30, 2014, 05:03:58 PM
If 4 of us reply and they don't come back do we get a T shirt?

No, you and all the other contributors get a mug!

Geddit?

Quote from: boboff on January 30, 2014, 05:03:58 PM
If 4 of us reply and they don't come back do we get a T shirt?

This has prompted me to think we may need a couple of stickies at the top of the forum.........