UK Landlord Forum / Life

Hi Everyone.

I'm going to let my property while I do some work abroad.

By question that I'm at moment is introduction only or full management from estate agent?

I will have all maintenance guys in place like plumber, electrician, handyman that can jump to make any repair if needed.

Full management from estate agent been requested 6% plus VAT plus & 3.5% plus VAT for rental guarantee insurance.

I would prefer that tenant call me if there is any issue as I know the house better than the estate agent.

What I'm not sure is the Rent & legal guarantee that based on the estate agent is the big thing in case tenant will not pay the rent.

I have been looking into landlord insurance which I have to do and can add the legal and rent cover. is this the same thing as what usually full management estate agent offer.

Do they cover something else that is worth them paying the extra money?

apologise for the silly question but I would like to have some clarification on this from someone like you with wider experience.

House is in Essex.

Many Thanks

I have a longstanding prejudice against introduction only. If you're going to manage the property yourself, find the tenant yourself as well.

If the agent is paid for introduction only, they want they're incentivised to get the quickest result, with the least work. If they don't do a great job, there's every chance their reward will be repeated business. Obviously some agents are brilliant, but the incentives are against you.

You want a decent long term tenant.