ARLA issues tips on securing a rental property in competitive climate
Potential tenants have been issued with a number of helpful tips to help them find rented accommodation in what is becoming an increasingly crowded market.
With more people seeking to rent a home rather than buy than ever before, tenants can sometimes find it difficult to find a suitable property to rent.
But according to the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA), there are a number of things they can do to improve their chances.
Ian Potter, operations manager at ARLA, explained: "Our members are seeing an unprecedented level of demand for homes, with prospective buyers turning to rented property as a more flexible option than buying.
"However, although the rental market is highly competitive, it is still possible to find that ideal home - if the search is carried out in a thorough, well-informed and realistic manner."
Among its suggestions, ARLA recommends using residential lettings agents to help find a property.
"Using an agent can make the process easier. Licensed ARLA members have industry-leading market knowledge, and are regulated - giving you access to client money protection and a redress scheme - as well as an informed opinion," it said.
Other tips for renters include identifying beforehand what features of a property or rental agreement are vital to their needs, and what areas they can be flexible on.
ARLA also recommends being prepared to make a prompt and well-informed decision on a property, as the best accommodation is usually let quickly, as well as conducting research into the local area and rental market.
The industry body's advice follows recent indications that demand for rental property among the UK public has surged in recent years.
Recently released figures from the Department for Communities and Local Government revealed that the number of private renters in the UK soared from 2.15 million in 2003-04 to 3.35 million in 2009-10, a rise of 55 per cent.
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