If you’re switching to a new letting agent, chances are you’re an Edinburgh landlord who’s unhappy with your current service or are looking for a more extensive suite of services from a new agent. 

Once you’ve done your research and made your choice, it’s essential to get off on the right foot to build a trusted relationship and ensure both parties are clear on each other’s expectations. 

Check What Your New Agent Is Offering 

Before you sign on the dotted line, check that the new management contract fully covers everything you need. Ensure you’re aware of the costs involved, timelines for repairs and maintenance, inspection frequency and anything else important to you as a landlord. 

Taking time to explore everything at the outset means you’re less likely to encounter a nasty surprise further down the line, and it will lay the foundations for a better relationship with your new agent. 

Set Out Your Expectations From The Start 

It could be that you want a weekly email update about your property, or maybe you’d like the agent to check in by phone once a month to keep you posted about any concerns or maintenance issues. 

All letting agents have different processes for communicating with landlords. Some do almost everything via an online portal, while others use more personal contact such as phone calls or text messages.  

Ensure your new agent is aware of your expectations from the start and agree on the frequency and mode of regular check-ins and updates. Building a strong relationship early on, and clearly understanding expectations on both sides, is more likely to lead to a positive experience.  

How Much Contact Can You Expect From Your Letting Agent? 

Some landlords like to be contacted about any issues, no matter how small, while others are happy for their letting agent to take control unless there’s a major expenditure involved. Talk to your new agent at the start and set the boundaries for what you’re happy for them to handle independently – that way, you won’t receive unnecessary calls, or your agent won’t sanction work without checking with you first. 

Keep Communication Open 

The best way to establish a good working relationship with your letting agent is to maintain open lines of communication. If you’re unhappy about something, speak to your agent as soon as possible so you can agree on a solution together. 

There’s nothing worse than a landlord being unhappy and a letting agent being completely unaware of the situation. Most times, issues can be resolved through good communication. Silence is never the answer! 

If you’d like a no-obligation chat about moving to a new letting agent, schedule a call with one of our professional property managers today.