The Tenant Journey - Our 9 Step Guide
Step 1. Getting started:
Before you start, understanding your budget will help you get a clearer idea of the size, style and location of the properties within your price range. The type of let you decide upon will depend on your individual circumstances, but whether you are looking for a short let or something longer term, there are properties to suit every need.
Other important things to consider when searching for a rental home include distance from transport links, local amenities and distance to schools, style of property, storage, and parking availability if required. Make sure to do your research beforehand and know exactly what you are looking to achieve from your rental property.
Step 2. Register with us:
The letting market can move at an alarming pace. Register your requirements with Ashtons and keep ahead of the game with alerts and property updates as they come to market. Our dedicated team can also discuss your specific requirements and answer any questions you may have about the process.
Get in touch with a member of our team to start your conversation today.
Step 3. Finding your perfect property:
Once you have registered, we will keep you updated on all relevant properties coming to market and ensure that you find the best possible fit for your requirements. Our team will keep you constantly up to date and ensure you have the best advantage in a competitive market.
Our top tip here is to visit a variety of properties to ensure you make an informed decision on what works best for you, finding the right property is a journey and usually involves a few twists and turns along the way!
View all of our latest available properties here.
Step 4. Book a viewing:
Nearly all of our properties now come with an online virtual video, meaning you can narrow down your favourite properties from the comfort of your own home and see more properties than physical viewings would allow. Virtual tours are also a great place to start to get a better idea of available homes within your budget and desired location.
However, seeing a home in ‘the flesh’ is essential when choosing your next home so be sure to book in a physical viewing at your earliest opportunity. Our property experts are committed to helping you find the right home and will be on hand at viewings, and throughout your journey, to answer any questions.
Step 5. Submitting your application:
Once you have found a desirable home it is time to make an application. You can do this online or with your agent, letting them know of any specific conditions so that these can be communicated to the landlord. Our agents can also offer advice on how to make your application as attractive as possible to perspective landlords – it is a competitive market and we’re here to help as much as we can. Remember, the best applications are not always just about price; length of tenancy, moving date and the conditions of the offer are all up for consideration too, so let us help you put your best foot forward.
Once applications have been submitted, your agent will provide feedback and help you through the next steps of the process as quickly as possible.
Step 6. Application agreed:
Once an offer is accepted (subject to contract), all tenants are invited to register on our online Ashtons Letting Portal, which you can access anytime, anywhere from your desktop, tablet or mobile. Our portal has been designed to keep track of the tenancy showing you exactly what is happening at every stage of the process - giving you full transparency.
Here you can:
Upload required documents such as proof of ID and proof of address.
Pay your one-week reservation deposit.
Submit your references.
View and sign tenancy agreements.
Report any maintenance and much more.
Tenants can also opt in to use our free Ashtons Concierge Team who will get in touch to help you with services such as changing council tax and utility bills, setting up broadband, and also provide recommendations for removal services, cleaning and gardening services and much more.
Step 7: Signing the contract:
When your references have been approved, you will be asked to sign the tenancy agreement and pay the balance of the move in monies, being your first rental instalment and 5 week holding deposit.
Step 8. Preparing for the move:
The day of the move is likely to be a busy one and Ashtons will take care of as much as possible to ensure the process is stress-free. However, there are things you can do ahead of the big day to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible:
Ensure you have given appropriate notice to your current landlord or letting agent.
Notify your bank, insurance, mobile phone and other utility companies of your new address.
Set up a redirection for your post.
Remove all personal items from your current property and ensure the property is clean and tidy with all furniture returned to its original place.
Take your final meter readings in your current property.
Arrange your contents insurance in your new home (we can help you with this).
Look into any parking restrictions on both your old and new address – a moving van can take up a lot of space!
Step 9: It’s move-in day!
On moving in day, you will be given your set of keys and will be met at the property by the inventory clerk, who will make a photographic and written record of the property. This document describes the condition of the property and will ensure that when you leave the property that everything can be fairly assessed against any deposit deductions that may come up. You will be provided a copy of this report shortly after move-in.
For managed properties, we will provide the tenant with contact details of their dedicated Property Manager.
Congratulations, you can now relax and enjoy your new home!