UK Landlord Forum / Life

Hi
I have bought a house in York 4 hours away from where I live in Reading, its because I originally come from York and a friend has one in the same street and its very nice, might even live there myself one day.

We started using a letting agent but they are worse than useless and charge me 10% a month, but do not do checks and if something needs replacing give me massive quotes and I need to ring around to get the job done at a reasonable price - it just winds me up.

I was just wondering if there was another way. Thought I could put a master key safe on the outside and use someone as a handy man that I trust, or is there a keyholder service?

Then just use agents to find the tenants and do the inventory at the start and end.

Any one got any practical advice on this,

Thanks

Peter

You need to check your contract if you are intending getting rid of the agents while one of "their" tenants is still residing.There could be financial penalties.In your situation I would plan a visit to York,having done some research first online.There are handymen services that cater largely to landlords in many areas.Does the friend you mention have good contacts,would they be prepared to keep a key? Are there any retired people  you trust who might be happy to earn a bit of extra cash by taking on some management legwork for you?
I think your idea is a good one,but you will still need to monitor things and get inspections done.

Yes I was worried about the contract I will have to dig it out and take a look.

Yes I do go back there about 4 or 5 times a year so could arrange to do checks a few times.

Yes when we were there before there was a neighbour who seemed very nice and retired I could speak to them - that's a good idea - thanks

Yes I will speak to my mate who may use someone himself  - all good ideas. Thanks I will keep you posted.

Dont forget the deposit...its harder if it is registered in the agents name.

The master key concept is potentially a bit of an issue unless the tenant is made aware of the process for access up front and agrees to it  - unless of course you mean the master key is only used during void periods when there is no tenant at all.
(I doubt most people would be happy knowing a key to the house is sitting in a box outside (safe or not).

Best of luck.