Posted on November 8, 2021 January 12, 2023

How To Deal With Difficult Tenants

In most cases, tenants of a rental property will be responsible, sensible, and treat your property with respect. Unfortunately there will always be some exceptions to the rule, who create difficulty and stress for you as a landlord.

Here are some of the issues that might arise with difficult tenants, and how they should be dealt with.

Tenant is Unable To Pay The Rent

If the tenant is unable to pay part or all of the rent, the best solution is to talk directly with them about the reasons. If they have previously been a good tenant, it’s likely that they are very stressed and worried about not being able to pay, so a constructive, empathetic approach will be helpful. If no acceptable solution can be found, you may have to begin an eviction process, which must follow a strict procedure.

Tenant is Disturbing The Neighbours

Neighbours being disturbed by neighbours generally comes down to issues of noise, such as excessively loud music, televisions, parties, children, dogs or power tools. The best way to approach this problem is to include a clause in the tenancy agreement that relates to excessive noise and quiet hours, which would typically be between 11pm and 7am. If the tenant refuses to discuss the issue with the neighbour, you should speak to the tenant directly, and refer to the fact that they are in breach of their tenancy, which could lead to eviction.

If the noise continues, the neighbours can call the police, which could lead to an anti-social behaviour order for the tenants.

Tenant is Subletting a Room

It can be hard to know if a tenant is actually subletting a room, as they may be innocently having a friend to stay for a while when they are away, rather than making money out of your property. If you have suspicions, contact your tenant and ask them what is going on. If you can’t get hold of them, either by phone, email or in person, this could be a sign that something is amiss. Outlining in the tenancy agreement that subletting isn’t allowed is crucial, as it gives you grounds to investigate further and take appropriate action.

Tenant is Engaging in Illegal Activities

Examples of illegal use of a property include selling or producing illegal substances, prostitution or the production or sale of counterfeit goods. As well as posing a danger to the property and other tenants, if you as landlord turn a blind eye to criminal activity you may end up being prosecuted. Make sure you carry out regular, scheduled checks of the property to get an indication of whether anything illegal is happening. If you think it is, contact the police. You don’t want to end up being questioned about your involvement if the tenant is caught before you have voiced your concerns.

Tenant is Refusing to Vacate The Property

One of the most frustrating things a tenant can do is refuse to leave a property when the tenancy comes to an end. While this puts the landlord in a difficult position, it is vital that the correct procedures are followed to evict the tenant legally, otherwise the situation can become very drawn out and expensive. You must serve notice on the tenant using either a Section 8 Notice, which is non-fault based, or a Section 21 Notice, which is an accelerated possession procedure.

Once the notice period has expired you have to apply to the courts for possession of the rental property. This will get the court to instruct a bailiff who is legally allowed to get the tenant out. This can take between 3-5 months but you mustn’t be tempted to take the law into your own hands as you are likely to end up facing charges of harassment.

The Dos and Don’ts of Dealing With Your Tenants

Problem tenants are annoying and difficult, which is why you want to find and hold onto good ones. Being a good landlord and having a positive relationship with your tenants is very important and will make being a landlord much easier. The following tips will help:

Be careful when choosing tenants

By properly screening tenants when they move in, you will be able to weed out any potential bad ones. Make sure you check their credit rating, employment status and references.

Be professional

When dealing with your tenants, always be professional and friendly even if they aren’t behaving in the same manner. Good communication means that disputes can be dealt with quickly.

Keep records

Document everything relating to the tenancy and keep records of financial transactions and maintenance issues, and any calls, messages or emails you receive from the tenant. Make sure all requests are in writing, so you can refer to them if necessary.

Get proper insurance

Make sure you have the correct insurance policies for your property, including landlords insurance. This can help pay towards the costs of energy damage the tenants cause, as well as helping if the tenants are unable to pay the rent.

What You Can’t Do

Even though the rental property belongs to you, landlords still have to abide by laws that allow tenants peaceful enjoyment of their home. These stipulate that:

You cannot enter your property without prior agreement from the tenant. Landlords have rights to ‘reasonable’ access to carry out repairs but you must always get permission from the tenant with at least 24 hours notice, unless it is an emergency.
You cannot harass your tenants: it is a criminal offence. Harassment includes entering the property without getting permission from the tenant.
You cannot physically throw your tenant out. This also constitutes harassment. You must go through the legal eviction process as outlined above or you may face charges.

If you have problem tenants and are renting your property through a reputable letting agent like Hopewell, you will be able to ask them for expert advice on any difficulties. If you don’t have a letting agent you can contact the Citizens Advice Bureau for help and support.

Posted on October 8, 2021 January 10, 2023

Why Is Fire Safety Stricter for HMOs?

A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a property that has three or more people living there, who form more than one household and who share a toilet, kitchen or bathroom facilities with other tenants. HMOs already have stricter fire safety rules than other rented properties and the UK government is looking at making them stricter still. In this article we’ll look at why the rules are stricter for HMOs and what regulations landlords need to be aware of.

What are the Proposed New Rules For HMOs?

Landlords and managing agents of HMOs could face unlimited fines if new measures are brought in, the Home Office has announced. The measures will amend the current Fire Safety Order in the following ways:

Improve the quality of fire risk assessments and the competence of those who carry them out.
Make sure important fire safety information is preserved over the lifespan of all regulated buildings.
Improve coordination between people responsible for fire safety and make it easier to identify who they are.
Strengthen enforcement action and give anyone impersonating or obstructing a fire inspector an unlimited fine.
Strengthen guidance issued as part of the Fire Safety Order so that failure to follow it may be considered in court proceedings as evidence of non-compliance.
Improve the engagement between Building Control Bodies and Fire Authorities in reviewing plans for building work.
Requiring all new-build flats over 11 metres tall to install premises information boxes.

Why Are Fire Safety Rules in HMOs So Strict?

The main reason fire safety rules in HMOs are stricter than other rented properties is because people living in HMOs are separate households and therefore less likely to communicate with each other. A family home is much less likely to have rooms that are regularly locked, which can be standard practice in HMOs and therefore mean people do not have easy escape routes should a fire break out. Landlords must plan for this to ensure people can reach safety.

Rules are also stricter for HMOs as the layout of the properties generally tend to be split up into shared areas and private rooms, making the installation of fire warning systems more complex. It may also be necessary for the landlord to fit fire doors, emergency lighting and signs for fire escape routes.

HMOs are at higher risk of fires as they are often created by the subdivision of larger properties into smaller units, which increases the risk of fire occurring and can mean that means of escape have been compromised during the redevelopment process. Deaths and injuries from fire in HMOs are higher than in single family homes, which is why strict regulations are in place to provide early warning, stop the spread of fire and smoke, and make it easier for occupants to escape.

What Additional Fire Regulations Apply to HMOs?

All landlords have strict regulations they must stick to in order to ensure the property they are renting out is safe, but HMO landlords must adhere to additional rules around fire safety. The Housing Act of 2004 includes the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and information about licencing for HMOs and management regulations for HMOs. The main regulation for Fire Safety in HMOs is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This regulation states that, as an HMO landlord, it is your duty to carry out fire risk assessments to minimise the risk of a fire.

How is a HMO Fire Risk Assessment Carried Out?

A fire risk assessment will highlight any potential risks in a HMO and allow you to carry out actions to remedy them. The first thing a landlord should do is create and maintain a fire safety logbook, so that all maintenance activities can be recorded. Following on from this, the main steps of a fire risk assessment are as follows:

Identify potential fire hazards. In order to do this, you need to identify all sources of ignition, fuel and oxygen. This will include things like cooking equipment, faulty electrical appliances, boilers, gas heaters, wooden furniture, textiles, flammable liquids, storage of waste and recycling and oxygen supplies from cylinder storage.
Identify people at risk. This may include people who are sleeping, unaccompanied children, disabled people, and other people in the vicinity of the building.
Check, remove, reduce and protect people and premises from risk. Ways to do this include fire detection systems, emergency lighting and clearly marked, uncluttered escape routes.
Record, inform and instruct. Record findings of risk and action taken to rectify it. Have an emergency plan and make tenants aware of it. Provide any necessary training on actions or equipment that will keep tenants safe.
Review. Keep your risk assessment under review and make changes where necessary.

Ways to Help Make Your HMO Fire Regulations Compliant

There are various actions you can proactively take to make your HMO compliant. These include:

Fitting Fire Doors

Fire doors stop the spread of smoke and fire throughout a property and give the occupants time to escape. They should be fire-rated and at least of FD30 standard, which means they can contain a fire for at least 30 minutes. All fire doors should have self-closing mechanisms and show proof of performance for the ratings they carry.

Automatic Fire Detection System

An Automatic Fire Detection System conforming to BS5839: Part 6: 1995 with LD1 level should be installed in all HMOs. The control and testing equipment must be mains powered and interlinked with battery backup in all common escape staircases on each landing, all corridors, all bedrooms and the lounge.

Escape Routes

In the event of an emergency an unobstructed, easy to use escape route can make the difference between life and death. Escape routes should be clear of obstacles, clutter, electrical wires and anything else that could be a trip hazard or otherwise hinder escape. Ensure that your tenants know not to obstruct the escape route and check them on a regular basis.

Signs and Notices

All exits should be marked with a sign making them easy to identify. The specification is that the signs must include a green background with a white figure and the word ‘exit’ clearly written. The signs must be placed on each landing level and above the final exit door.
If you have an HMO it’s vital that your property complies with all the relevant rules and regulations. You must carry out a full fire risk assessment that complies with the official government guidance, ensures that your tenants are as safe as possible, and stops you being liable for a large fine.

Posted on August 23, 2021 January 12, 2023

Fully Managed Letting Service vs Let-Only Service: Which One Should You Choose?

There are many different types of landlords out there. Some people want to invest in property as a business and decide on a hands-on approach. Others want to build a property portfolio without having to spend time managing tenants. And yet more and more people are becoming landlords without really planning to, perhaps because they have inherited property, gone abroad for a job or moved in with a partner and held on to their previous home.

Deciding whether to go for a fully managed or let-only property management service is an important decision, as managing a property yourself can be more work than you think. In this article we will break down the pros and cons of both options to help you make the best choice for your situation.

What is a Let-Only Service?

A let-only service is the most basic option offered by letting agents. The agent will find a tenant for your property and let out the property for you as a landlord, but are not involved in any other way in the ongoing management of the property. The services offered under this option will vary depending on the quality of the letting agent, but should include:

Advice on how much rent can be charged on a property
Full marketing and advertising
Arranging and carrying out viewing with potential tenants
Full tenant reference, credit and Right to Rent checks
Drawing up and signing of tenancy agreement
Collection and forwarding of first month’s rent and deposit

What are the Pros of a Let-Only Service?

One of the biggest benefits of using a let-only service is that it is the cheaper option. You will usually only be charged a one-off fee that is either fixed or relates to a percentage of the first month’s rent (at Hopewell we always charge our clients a fixed amount).

Fully managed letting services also charge ongoing fees, which is usually between 10-15% of the monthly rent. This is payable for the whole period of the tenancy. Some letting agents (not us, we should point out) include a setup fee paid at the beginning of the process.

Another benefit of a let-only service is that it makes life simpler for landlords who prefer to take a hands-on approach. Rather than having to communicate with their tenant through a third-party, the landlord can speak with them directly, enabling both parties to quickly note and rectify any problems with the property or the tenancy. It also allows landlords to carry out repairs or maintenance themselves where possible, which can save time and money.

What are the Cons of a Let-Only Service?

The biggest difficulty that comes with using a let-only service and dealing with the day-to-day management of a property yourself is keeping up with industry legislation and regulation.

There are over 100 rules and regulations that landlords need to be abreast of in order to let a property legally, and they are being changed and added to all the time. Taking full legal responsibility means knowing when new legislation is coming in and understanding how it can affect the properties you rent out, and the tenants that live in them. By putting your properties in the hands of a professional letting service you can avoid this stress, as well as any prosecution or fines resulting from mis-management.

Another downside of a let-only service is that there is no one to take up the reins of looking after your property should you need time off for any reason, such as illness or going on a long trip. Managing a property can be harder work than you think so having someone to do it for you can make a huge difference.

What is a Fully Managed Letting Service?

A fully managed letting service does everything a let-only service does, plus a whole lot more. It means you can sit back and forget about your property whilst the letting agent handles all aspects of managing it for you, including:

Management of tenants
Rent collection
Safety compliance management
Property inspections
Management of property maintenance
Assistance in any disputes

What are the Pros of a Fully Managed Letting Service?

Having a fully managed letting service removes the stress from the experience of being a landlord. There is plenty of scope for worry and difficulty when it comes to letting out property, such as dealing with unhappy tenants, trying to collect unpaid rent and managing tradespeople should maintenance problems arise. Placing all of these issues in someone else’s hands removes the hassle and frees up your time to concentrate on other things.

Another big plus point in having a fully managed letting service is that you can relax in the knowledge that you are fully compliant with all the relevant legislation and laws. It is invaluable to have experts on your side who are fully up to date with any changes that could affect your property, and are able to offer advice that is easy to understand and free of confusing legal jargon.

What are the Cons of a Fully Managed Letting Service

The biggest downside of choosing a fully managed letting service is the price. Around 10-15% of the rent you collect from a property will go to the letting agent, which will make a bit of a dent in your profits. However, if you consider the amount you could lose from fines if a property is mismanaged, it may feel worth paying for the peace of mind and security of knowing your tenants and property are properly taken care of. On top of this, the costs of a letting agent can be off-set against your tax liability, meaning you can claim back some of the costs at the end of every tax year.

Choosing a let-only or fully managed letting service is a personal decision that needs to be based on your particular situation. If you’re still unsure, get in touch with us at Hopewell to talk through your queries and choose the perfect letting service for you and your property.

Posted on December 15, 2020 January 12, 2026

A Complete Guide to Conveyancing

Conveyancing is the word used to describe the process of legally transferring the ownership of property from one person to another. A licensed conveyancer or property solicitor follows a series of standardised steps when taking your property transaction to completion (a conveyancer or solicitor can do the job; the difference is that conveyancers specialise only in conveyancing, whilst a solicitor is likely to have expertise in other areas of the law as well). Whether you are buying or selling a property, it’s advisable to have a conveyancer or solicitor involved.

The conveyancing process usually takes between 8-12 weeks on average, but could take longer or shorter depending on the length of the chain that is involved. For example, if there is a long chain made up of lots of parties that need to sell their own home before being able to complete on the new one, the process can end up taking several months. If buyer and seller are both chain free, the sale could complete in as little as four weeks. Read on to learn about the necessary conveyancing process for buying a property.

Instruct a Property Solicitor

Once you’ve been through the steps of taking out a mortgage and having an offer accepted on a home, it’s time to instruct the services of a conveyancer. The conveyancing process will begin with the conveyancer setting out their terms and conditions and the fixed cost of their services. Once you have formally agreed to them they will verify your identity by asking for a copy of your ID, usually a passport or driving licence. You, or your estate agent, will then exchange the details of your solicitor with that of the seller.

Once contact is made, the seller’s solicitor sends your conveyancer the contract pack. This usually includes title deeds, a draft contract, leasehold management information (if applicable), building guarantees and any planning consents that have already been granted. Also included is a fittings and content form, which stipulates what fixtures and fittings are included in the sale, for example a fitted kitchen. Your conveyancer will carefully review this information and advise you on any potential issues.

The solicitor will advise you to have an independent property survey carried out that will highlight any faults with the property. If the surveyor finds a need for urgent repair works you will have the opportunity to renegotiate the agreed asking price with the seller or for the seller to fix any problems before the sale is completed. At this point you can also pull out of the purchase with no legal ramifications.

Conduct Property Searches

The next stage of the process involves the conveyancer performing a number of property searches. These include:

Local authority searches

These searches are conducted by the local authorities within which the property is built. They provide information about the property, including:

Where the boundary of the property lies
Rights of way
Planning permissions or constraints
Any disputes about any of the above

Environmental searches

These provide important information and identify potential issues with:

Subsidence
Landslides
Flooding
Land contamination

Water and drainage searches

These are carried out by the local water board and offer the following information:

Who owns and is responsible for the maintenance of pipes, drains and sewers
If the property is connected to a public water supply and sewer
If the water is paid for via a meter or rates
If the water board needs to give permission should the property be extended

Entering into the Contract

Once all of the searches have been satisfactorily concluded and the contract pack and mortgage offer evaluated, your conveyancer will arrange a time for you and the seller to enter into a legally binding contract with the seller. This is arranged for a specific date, which is when you agree to complete the purchase of the property. Although it is meant to be a set date, be aware that the completion date may change several times due to delays with the seller, especially if they are purchasing another property.

Once you have agreed this date in principle, your conveyancer will contact the buyer’s solicitor to inform them of your desire to go ahead with the purchase. At this stage you will usually be required to transfer your deposit to your solicitor. If you have used a Help to Buy scheme, you will also be required to pass the details on.

Exchange

When everything is in place, your conveyancer will send you a transfer deed, mortgage deed and final completion statement to sign. This statement will also set out the balance of money that you need to pay to cover all legal fees involved in the sale. A final Land Registry search will be made at this point to ensure that no changes have been made to it since the initial searches took place. Your conveyancer sends the signed transfer deed the seller’s solicitor along with your deposit money, and the contracts are exchanged. Once this stage is reached you are legally bound to purchase the property.

Completion

This is the day that the property is officially yours: the sale is finalised and you receive the keys to your new home. If you are using a mortgage, the solicitor will request the finances from the mortgage lender and they will be transferred. The title deeds, transfer deeds and proof of outstanding payments on the mortgage are obtained by your conveyancer. Once the sale has completed, your conveyancer completes the rest of the necessary paperwork and sends the required documents to Her Majesty’s Land Registry to ensure that you are registered as the new owner of the property.

Conclusion

Although it is possible to buy or sell a property with having a conveyancer involved, it isn’t recommended. There is a large amount of legal work involved with conveyancing and, if you don’t have the necessary expertise, complications can arise that could become very costly and ultimately end in your house sale falling through, or result in serious legal issues. Hiring the services of a conveyancer will make the process much smoother, less stressful and faster.

Posted on November 25, 2020 December 16, 2024

A Guide to Taking Out a Mortgage

Are you eager to get on the property ladder but don’t know where to start? Buying a house is a big deal, so it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed and uncertain when it comes to taking out a mortgage. This guide will take you through the steps you need to take to become a homeowner.

What is a Mortgage?

Let’s start with the basics: a mortgage is a loan that you take out in order to buy a property. Most people don’t have the whole amount required to buy a home sitting in the bank, so they need to borrow it. You pay a deposit on a property, which is usually 10% of the asking price but can be less, and then apply to a mortgage lender, usually a bank or building society, for the rest.

How is a Mortgage Repaid?

Your mortgage loan is paid off on a monthly basis. The mortgage lender calculates an appropriate amount for you to pay off each month, which will include the interest they charge you on the loan. Most mortgages have a repayment term of around 25 years, but they are also available for shorter or longer periods of time, and can be adjusted at a later date if you wish. The total amount of the mortgage, plus the interest, is divided over the years you will take to pay it, and then into monthly amounts.

What Mortgage Can I Afford?

Mortgage lenders are taking a big chance on you, and they want to be as certain as possible that you can repay the money they have lent you. This is why they do mortgage affordability tests. Whilst 10% is usually the minimum for a deposit, there are some mortgages that will accept 5%. You also only need a 5% deposit if you are using the government’s Help To Buy scheme. However, having a deposit over 10% of the price of the property you wish to buy puts you in a better position, as lenders have to give you less, which means it will be quicker and easier to pay back.

When it comes to how much mortgage lenders are prepared to give you, they tend to work by the 4.5 rule, meaning they will only lend 4.5 times your annual income. If you are buying as a couple and your combined earnings is £60,000 a year, you can apply for a mortgage of £270,000. A deposit of 10% of this figure would be £27,000, which means the properties you could consider buying would be priced around £297,000. Mortgage lenders look at all of your regular outgoings, such as household bills, loan repayments and credit card debt to make sure you have enough left to cover mortgage repayments. They will also perform a credit check with a credit reference agency to take a look at your financial history and see how much of a risk lending to you might be. Before applying you should check your credit score yourself and take steps to improve it if necessary.

How to Find the Right Mortgage Deal For You

There are hundreds of mortgage options out there, so, as well as doing your own research, it’s a good idea to ask an expert. An expert mortgage advisor will know about the best deals available on the market and be able to give advice on what would work best for you. As specialists, they usually have access to better deals than those publicly available on comparison sites. Mortgage brokers are usually paid on commission from your lender, but they may charge a fee as well, so be sure to check.

The Mortgage Application

The actual mortgage application itself is a fairly straightforward process. You may do this in person with your mortgage lender, but increasingly this step is done online. You’ll need to have proof of identity, so a driver’s licence or passport, as well as a utility bill, will be necessary. You will also need to show your annual income, which usually means a P60 from your employer, your last three months of payslips and bank statements for the previous six months. If you are self-employed you need to provide your three previous SA302 tax returns. When you have filled in the application and sent it to the lender with the relevant documents, the lenders will perform the credit check and review the information to decide on what they will lend you.

In recent years it has become increasingly important to get a mortgage in principle before you even begin to look at properties. This is a written indication from a mortgage lender stating how much it might be prepared to lend you. Whilst not compulsory, it can be useful to have when house hunting – especially for a first home – as it demonstrates to the estate agent that you’re a serious buyer. It puts you in a firm position to make an offer and could make the difference between a seller choosing you instead of someone without one.

The Cost of Buying

It’s vital to remember that along with the cost of the actual house comes the cost incurred whilst purchasing the house. Fees tend to be steep and can make a real dent in the amount you have saved for your deposit. Mortgage arrangement fees (usually around £2,000) are typically added to your mortgage amount, but you will have to pay upfront for your mortgage broker fee, valuation and survey fees, solicitor’s fee, stamp duty (if applicable) and moving costs. It all adds up so make sure you have set enough money aside to cover it.

Conclusion

The deal you get will depend on your income, the size of the property and, crucially, the size of your deposit, so make sure you have plenty saved up first. As long as you have the necessary documents and information in order, it should be a fairly smooth and straightforward process. Though it initially seems overwhelming, with good research and good advice, taking out a mortgage won’t be as complicated as you expect.

Posted on October 16, 2020 December 16, 2024

Help to Buy: The Complete Guide

The Help to Buy scheme is a government initiative designed to help first time buyers get on the property ladder without having a large deposit. There are various different schemes under the UK government’s Help to Buy umbrella, which are aimed at different people depending on their circumstances. We’ll take a closer look at all of them in this guide.

Help to Buy Equity Loan (England)

The Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme is only applicable in England and can only be used to purchase new build homes, which can be worth up to £600,000. The scheme works like this:

Step 1: The purchaser needs to have a deposit of 5% of the overall cost of the property.

Step 2: The government lends the purchaser up to 20% of the property’s value as an equity loan.

Step 3: The purchaser takes out a mortgage on the rest of property’s value. This means that if you have a 5% deposit and your equity loan was 20%, you’d take out a mortgage of 75%.

For the first five years after you’ve taken out the loan, it is interest free and all you have to pay is a £1 monthly management fee by direct debit. From year six onwards you continue to pay the monthly management fee and begin paying a monthly interest fee of 1.75% of the equity loan. The interest fee rises in April each year by the Retail Price Index (RPI) plus 1% until you repay your loan.

The current scheme for homes under the current scheme to be finished in order to comply with the current scheme was 31 December 2020, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, this deadline will be moved to 28 February 2021. Applicants should be aware that the deadline for legal completion of the sale remains the same – March 2021.

London Help to Buy Equity Loan

The Help to Buy Equity Loan for people living in London works the same as for those in the rest of the country, but they are able to borrow 40% of the property price from the government instead of 20%. This is designed to reflect the hugely expensive property prices in London and means people living in the area can buy a property with just 55% loan-to-value.

Help to Buy Scotland

Scotland Wales operate their own Help to Buy schemes, which are similar to England’s offering. Northern Ireland does not currently have a similar scheme in operation.

The Help to Buy (Scotland) Affordable New Build scheme requires that you have a deposit of 5% and that your deposit and mortgage must cover a combined minimum of 85% of the purchase price. The Scottish Government then takes a stake of 15% of the purchase price and holds security over this proportion until you own your home outright or decide to sell. You can also repay the government to increase your share of the equity in increments of 5% each time. The maximum value of the property you can purchase is £200,000 and must be used as your main residence, so you can’t use the scheme to purchase a buy-to-let investment.

Help to Buy Shared Ownership

The Help to Buy Shared Ownership scheme offers the chance to buy a share of a property, usually between 25% and 75% of the value. You then pay rent on the remaining share, and can buy bigger shares in the property as and when you can afford it. A housing association owns the remaining share of the property. There are rules on who can buy a home through Help to Buy Shared Ownership schemes:

Your household must earn £80,000 a year or less outside London, or earn £90,000 a year or less in London.
You are a first time buyer, you used to own a home but can’t afford to buy a new one, or an existing shared owner wishing to move.

People with Disabilities

If you have a disability you can apply for the Home Ownership for People with Long-Term Disabilities scheme (HOLD). This is for people who can’t find homes that meet their needs available through other home ownership schemes, for example properties that are on the ground floor.

Elderly People

If you’re aged 55 or over you can apply for help from the Older People’s Shared Ownership scheme. It works exactly the same as the general Shared Ownership scheme, but you can only buy up to 75% of a home. However, once you own the 75% you don’t have to pay rent on the remaining share.

Help to Buy ISA

The Help to Buy ISA is a tax-free saving account specifically aimed at people saving to buy their first home. For every £200 put into the ISA, the government adds an extra £50, up to a maximum bonus of £3,000. This is paid to your solicitor when your first property purchase completes.

Help to Buy ISA closed to new applicants in November 2019, but people who have existing accounts can continue to save until December 2030. They will still receive the 25% bonus when completing their purchase.

New Home Owners and Coronavirus

Though the coronavirus pandemic has made buying a new home tricker in some respects, for example due to a lack of mortgage availability, in others it has made it easier. The stamp duty threshold has been raised from £300,000 to £500,000. This has contributed to a mini boom in the property market, with property website Rightmove finding that July 2020 was the busiest month for home buying since they started tracking data ten years ago. Raising the stamp duty threshold will mainly be of benefit for people purchasing in places where property is most expensive, for example London and the South East.

There are plenty of schemes available to help you get a foot on the property ladder or make a move into a new home. They vary depending on the area you live in, and take into account the huge differences in property prices found around the country. Though the housing market is currently volatile due to Covid-19, the schemes are still available to help make your house purchase much more available.

Posted on September 29, 2020 January 12, 2026

The Ultimate Bristol Suburb Guide: City Centre

Bristol city centre is located in the heart of Bristol, and it is one of the most exciting parts of the city. As you would expect, the city centre is home to many of the best bars, restaurants and attractions that Bristol has to offer. There is plenty to see and do including lots of cultural and historic attractions to keep you busy. Whether it’s your first visit to Bristol or you’re planning to move to the city, here’s a guide to everything you need to know about Bristol city centre.

City Centre Location in Bristol

The city centre’s rough geographical area can be described as being the area south of Cotham and Kingsdown and Clifton, north of the New Cut, and west of Lawrence Hill and St Pauls.

Transport to and from the city centre is easy from anywhere in Bristol. Many busses go into the city centre from the outskirts of the city, and Bristol Bus and Coach Station and Temple Meads railway station are also located in the centre.

Be aware that there is now a Clean Air Zone for the centre of Bristol. Drivers must now pay to enter the zone if their car doe not meet the zone’s emissions standards, unless you have an exception. Head to the bristol.gov website for more information, vehicle checker, and daily charges.

The History of Bristol City Centre

The city centre in medieval times was located to the north of Bristol Bridge. During the 19th century, parts of the River Frome were covered over in various stages, and this area became the main hub of the tram network and now makes up part of the city centre. The area now known as Harbourside has also seen big changes over the decades. Once a busy dock, it has now an attractive development packed with shops, bars, restaurants and attractions.

Shopping in Bristol City Centre

There is lots of great shopping in Bristol. Shoppers will find everything they need in the Shopping Quarter in Bristol city centre and there is something for everyone.

Broadmead consists of various pedestrianised streets lined with shops. Located just north of the historic centre, this area was redeveloped after the war and you can find a wide range of high street names here.

The Galleries was built in the 1980s. This modern and unique shopping centre is in the centre of Bristol Shopping Quarter. It is a huge centre with a large glass roof, and it’s home to all the big high street stores.

Park Street is an iconic shopping street in the centre, and is home to big brands and independent stores alike. This buzzing area also has lots of bars, restaurants and cafes.

There are also many markets in the city centre, with one of the biggest being St Nicholas Market in the Old City. It has been held here since 1743, and the Glass Arcade is a Grade I listed building. Visit the market to find a range of stalls selling clothes, handmade goods, food and more.

Bristol Harbourside Market is held on weekends and stretches along the waterfront. You’ll find a wide range of creative arts and crafts as well as food stalls.

The street food market on the Broad Quay is held on Wednesdays and Thursdays and is a great place to grab a bite to eat on your lunch break. While Finzels Reach Market is held on Fridays and Wednesdays, and you can discover tasty street food from local producers here.

Bristol City Centre Bars and Restaurants

You won’t be surprised to learn that there are dozens of excellent bars, restaurants and nightclubs for all tastes in the city centre. Here are some of the best.

City Centre Restaurants

Whatever type of food you feel like, there’s a good chance you’ll find something in Bristol city centre.

The Bristol Stable, Canon’s Road – Popular pizza restaurant with some unusual flavours.
Mud Dock, The Grove – A great spot for brunch, lunch or a romantic dinner overlooking the Bristol Harbour all within a relaxed atmosphere.
Four Wise Monkeys, Clare Street – Super tasty Asian-fusion food and cocktails right in the centre of Bristol. Big flavours, flavourful dishes and a playlist to accompany.
Pizzarova, Park Street – Incredible sourdough pizzas from one of the best pizza places in Bristol. They have a couple locations around the city but their Park Street spot is not one to miss!
Honest Burgers Bristol, Clare Street – One of the best places to grab a burger in the city centre.
“It’s Not” Hot Pot, Small Street – Experience the ancient Chinese cooking process that is Hot Pot for an up-close and personal dining experience.

City Centre Music and Nightlife

There are some top bars, nightclubs and live music venues in Bristol city centre. Whatever sort of night you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

Bristol Beacon (formerly the Colston Hall) – This large concert hall puts on all kinds of performances, from rock to classical music to comedy.
The Milk Thistle – Covering four floors in a historic building, this cocktail bar and lounge is one of Bristol’s most popular bars.
Prince Street Social – A top British Brasserie with a relaxed atmosphere.
O2 Academy Bristol – Bristol’s biggest live music venue where all the biggest acts perform.
St George’s Bristol – Top music venue where you can listen to classical, blues, jazz and more.

Other City Centre Attractions and Places of Interest

There are plenty of things to see and do in Bristol city centre, from Museums and art galleries to parks and historic attractions.

To enjoy some greenery, head to one of the many splendid parks like Castle Park next to Broad Weir. This large green area is free to enter, and you can see a bandstand, St Peter’s Church and the remains of Bristol Castle’s walls and keep.

Queen’s Square is a lovely central park between the Old City and Harbourside, and College Green at the end of Park Street is also pleasant. You could also visit Brandon Hill Nature Reserve off Park Street, a historical park with great views where you will also find Cabot Tower.

Take a stroll in the Bristol Old City quarter and discover its beautiful historic buildings along with a good selection of pubs and restaurants.

Two of the most nationally established and recognised of Bristol’s theatres are in the centre – The Bristol Hippodrome and Bristol Old Vic Theatre, both of which offer a wide range of performances throughout the year.

Other interesting places to visit include Arnolfini Gallery on the Harbourside, a top contemporary arts centre; Watershed, a media centre showing independent films and other events; Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, which has some wonderful art collections as well as archaeology and natural history exhibits; and the gothic medieval beauty of Bristol Cathedral.

Posted on June 25, 2020 January 12, 2023

A Guide to Bristol’s Universities

There is a lot to recommend Bristol when you are choosing a university. Bristol has got not one but two world-class universities to choose from: the University of Bristol and UWE Bristol.

Bristol also has other educational institutions, including three theological colleges and a campus of the University of Law. In this article though, we’ll look at the two main universities and why they are such great choices for aspiring undergrads looking to take the next step in their education and their lives.

Why Bristol?

Aside from the excellent reputations of the universities themselves, Bristol has several benefits for students. As the largest city in the south-west, it has plenty of bars, restaurants, museums and galleries, cultural attractions, and things to do.

You’ll find lots of beautiful countryside only a short journey from the city, which is perfect for exploring and outdoor pursuits. You’ll also find plenty of lovely outdoor spaces in the city for those warm summer days.

There is no shortage of excellent student accommodation, with areas like Redland and Southville being particularly popular with the student population

It’s also a creative city. As one of the biggest media hubs in the UK, Bristol is home to many creative companies, which means there are some great opportunities for work experience and employment. Throw in some incredible street art, an amazing music scene, world-class festivals and some fantastic clubs, and Bristol really does seem to have it all.

The University of Bristol

The University of Bristol has an excellent reputation not only in the UK but internationally. It often ranks in the top 10 UK universities in league tables, and it has regularly ranked in the top 50 in the world. At the time of writing, it is ranked 87 in the THE World University Rankings.

It’s a member of the Russell Group, and its history dates back to 1909. Prior to this, it was called University College, Bristol from 1876 to 1909. It’s also particularly popular with students from independent schools.

According to details on the website, it has just over 20,000 students for the 2019/20 academic year. In the 2016/17 year, 56.2% of students went into full-time paid work and 21.4% went into full-time further study.

Studying

The University of Bristol has an excellent reputation for research, and ever since its foundation, it has had a strong reputation for innovation. It is heavily involved in international research collaborations, and it provides lots of practical experience to students so they can work on real-world projects.

There are currently over 200 degree courses to choose from, with its particular strengths lying in Mathematics, Engineering, Medicine and Law. It is a research-led education, and it recruits top academics from around the world.

As a result, degrees from the university are seen well by employers. In a list of universities that are targeted by graduate employers, Bristol ranked 4th in 2018.

Student Life

The University of Bristol attracts students from around the world, and as such it has a very international community.

There are many clubs and extracurricular activities to enjoy, and students are looked after well, with wellbeing advisers in residences providing support for students.

When you study here, you’re in good company because it also boasts a fair number of Nobel Laureates amongst its alumni, including Sir Winston Churchill and Harold Pinter.

University of the West of England (UWE)

The University of the West of England (UWE) was Bristol Polytechnic until it was given university status in 1992. It currently ranks 28th in the Guardian League Table, (up from 37 in 2019).

Studying

UWE Bristol has invested heavily in engineering and the sciences, and it has strong connections with the aerospace industry. It offers over 400 courses and has about 3,000 staff, and it has a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). It also has an excellent reputation for its world-leading research.

It has invested millions in new facilities, with over £300 million being invested up to 2020. Recent investments include £55 million on the state-of-the-art Bristol Business School and Bristol Law School, which comes with its own mock courtrooms.

It also invested £9 million in the Bower Ashton Film Studios for students of photography, animation and films, which comes with its own production and post-production facilities. The Bristol Robotics Laboratory (BRL) is also one of the largest in Europe.

Student Life

There are about 35,000 students at the university, making it the largest in Bristol, and most of the students come from state schools. According to the university website, it boasts an 88% student satisfaction rate.

There are over 160 clubs and societies to choose from, and the £5.5 million Centre for Sport on the Frenchay Campus is an excellent place to take part in activities. Media students can get involved in Western Eye, its student paper, or The Hub, the student radio station.

Studying at UWE Bristol can open the door to many opportunities. The website claims that it has links with over 1,000 employers both nationally and internationally. According to its latest figures, 95% of students are in employment or further study within six months of graduating, and there are also lots of options for internships and placements during study.

Students are also well looked after. There are information points all over the campuses to provide support, advice and guidance, and the Wellbeing Service provides 24/7 support for students.

Study in Bristol

As you can see, there are lots of great reasons to study in Bristol. While the two universities are some of the best in the UK, the city itself is also a fantastic place to live and study, which explains its high retention of students who decide to make Bristol their home after graduating.

If you are interested in the creative industries, science or technology, Bristol is also a great place to find a job because it’s one of the most innovative cities in the UK. So start researching the courses available and consider choosing Bristol when you decide on a university.

Posted on May 26, 2020 January 12, 2026

What The Law Says When You’re Renting in Bristol

If you are renting in Bristol, it’s well worth becoming familiar with the laws regarding your responsibilities as a tenant and those of your landlord.

With a better understanding of the law, you can prevent misunderstandings, avoid problems where you are not meeting your responsibilities, and act faster when you realise a landlord is not behaving fairly towards you or meeting their own requirements.

Whether you are already renting or planning to rent soon, here’s what you need to know.

Before You Move In

Firstly, you need to have a tenancy agreement in place, and your landlord should provide you with one. This is a contract between you that sets out the requirements and any specific rules to be aware of during the tenancy, such as how much rent you will pay. There are different types, but the Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) is the most common.

The deposit is another important consideration. This must be protected by your landlord in a Tenancy Deposit Scheme. As long as you follow the rules and look after the property, you are entitled to get the whole amount back.

It’s also a good idea to find out about any fees you are charged by either the landlord or the letting agent. Some fees were banned in June 2019. For example, you can no longer be charged a fee to check your references.

Know Your Responsibilities

We’ll come to your landlord’s responsibilities soon. But first, it’s important to know about your own responsibilities as a tenant.

The main responsibility is to pay your rent on time. A day of the month will usually be set to pay the rent, and the best option is to set up a standing order so it goes through automatically.

You also have a responsibility to look after the property. Accidents happen, but deliberately damaging the property in any way is not permitted. If something breaks, you notice any problems or repairs are required, and you need to report these to your landlord as soon as you can so they can take action.

You will also need to notify the landlord if you want to make any changes to the property, like putting up shelves or painting the rooms. Even if you think you are only making a minor change, always get the okay from your landlord first.

Paying Your Rent

Perhaps the biggest problem to arise is where tenants do not pay their rent and go into rent arrears. This is obviously best avoided, but sometimes it may be inevitable. So what happens in this situation?

In the worst-case scenario, your landlord could evict you. So don’t simply ignore the issue if you fall behind, and always read any letters they send you because these might set out the action they plan to take.

Keep communication channels open with your landlord or agency if you are experiencing problems paying the rent. If you have lost your job but you fully expect to be able to pay the rent in a few weeks, let your landlord know. It could help to avoid worse problems.

What About Your Landlord’s Responsibilities?

Your landlord also has responsibilities to you. The most important of these is ensuring the property is safe to live in.

Gas safety is incredibly important. All gas equipment must be installed safely and maintained regularly by an engineer that is Gas Safe registered. They must carry out a safety check once a year at least and provide you with a copy of the record.

All electrical systems must also be safe, including lights and sockets. All fire safety regulations must also be followed. For example, fittings and furniture must be fire safe, and there must be a minimum of one smoke alarm on each floor.

Your landlord must also make repairs where necessary. So if you notice that something like a sink has been damaged or a pipe needs fixing, always tell your landlord.

They must also provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before you start living in the property. This shows the energy efficiency of the property, and it must be rated E or higher.

Some properties must have a licence to meet health and safety standards. Licences are required by Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) or if the property is in certain areas of Bristol like Eastville or St George West. If the property should have a licence but does not, you can report it to the council.

Can Your Landlord Increase the Rent?

Landlords cannot increase the rent during the tenancy unless you agree to it. However, they can increase the rent at the end of the tenancy, which you can then agree to if you want to continue living in the property.

The rules are different if your landlord also lives in the property. In this case, they have to give you notice in writing, and this should be a minimum of 28 days or however frequently you pay the rent, which is normally monthly.

If you think your landlord is not treating you fairly for any reason, or if they are harassing you or doing anything illegal, make sure you take action. You can contact Bristol Council using the details on this page.

Leaving the Property

If you want to leave before the tenancy agreement ends, you must give your landlord notice. The details of this should be contained in the tenancy agreement. If you do not give notice, your landlord might take money from your deposit.

You also need to leave the property in good condition when you leave, which means leaving it as you found it, cleaning it and getting rid of any rubbish.

Enjoy Renting in Bristol

Bristol is a fantastic city, and there are many wonderful areas to live in. Make sure you enjoy your renting experience by meeting your requirements and know what you can expect from your landlord. Most rents are problem-free, and knowing the laws and your responsibilities can help to make your experience a positive one.

Posted on April 17, 2020 November 18, 2020

A Guide to being a Landlord in Bristol

Are you considering becoming a landlord in Bristol? If so, then there are lots of options to consider, whether you’re letting a property long-term to using your property for short-term holiday lets.

Whatever you are considering, here are some of the most important things to know about how to become a successful landlord in Bristol.

Choose a Target Tenant

It all starts by deciding which type of tenant you want to target. Whether you want to let a property to students, young professionals or a family, the type of tenant you target will affect the property you choose, as well as its location in Bristol.

For example, a family might prefer a three-bedroom house in the suburbs, perhaps somewhere like Bishopston or Henleaze in the north of Bristol or Totterdown or Long Ashton south of the river. Young professionals, on the other hand, may be looking for a small apartment in a more central location like trendy Montpellier or Southville.

Make sure you carry out your research before you buy a property so you know exactly which type of property you should buy.

Be Clear About Your Budget

You need to know how much you can afford to spend on your property well before you start considering buying one.

Research mortgages early on and find out what you can realistically afford to borrow. Do your sums to work out how much you can expect to earn in rental income, and then work out your expected returns over the coming years. Don’t go in blind or you could end up spending more than you can afford.

Choose Suitable Home Insurance

When you buy a rental property, you will certainly want to get landlord home insurance in place. This is different from standard home insurance because it is targeted at landlords rather than owner-occupiers and provides extra levels of cover that you need as a landlord.

Do your research and make sure you are aware of the potential problem areas. For example, what happens to your cover if your property remains unoccupied for a month or longer?

Find Out Whether You Need a Licence

You may need a licence to rent your property in Bristol, and it depends on the type of property and its location. For example, you will need a licence to let an HMO, but you may also need one to let in certain areas of the city. You can check whether you will need one on the Bristol City Council website.

You will also need to check your knowledge of the requirements using the Landlord Development Programme. This involves taking an online test, and you will need to answer questions to test your knowledge, which must be completed within six months of receiving your property licence.

Know Your Responsibilities

One of the most important things you can do when you plan to rent a property is get up to speed on your responsibilities as a landlord. There are many things to consider when letting a property.

For example, there are regulations in place regarding fire safety. These include making sure you have smoke detectors fitted on every floor and that any furniture is fire-resistant.

As for gas safety, you will need to hire a Gas Safe registered engineer to carry out annual checkups, and you will then be required to provide certificates to your tenants. You should also hire an electrician to check all electrical equipment in the property and make sure it is safe.

You will also need to provide your tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate to show tenants how energy efficient it is. And you must join a Tenancy Deposit Scheme to protect your tenant’s deposit.

As a landlord, you will have responsibilities regarding Right to Rent laws. This means you need to ask your tenants for documents that prove they can legally rent in the UK, so make sure you know what you need to do when you find a suitable tenant.

Find Suitable Tenants

Once you are aware of all of your responsibilities and you are ready to let your property, you will need to find suitable tenants. This is crucial for the success of your investment, and you will want to ensure your property remains occupied as much as possible because the more time it is empty, the less money you will make.

This means marketing and advertising your property online and in local newspapers to make sure your target tenants are aware of your property. There are tons of property sites like RightMove out there, but you might want to think about using a letting agent with local knowledge who can help you market as well as rent out your property (like us).

Once you find a potential tenant, you will need to screen them. Interview them, ask for references from previous landlords, and carry out credit checks to make sure they are suitable. This is one of the most important steps because you don’t want to end up with nightmare tenants.

You will also need to have a tenancy agreement in place, the most common of which is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy. Get your solicitor to write one up for you and make sure it covers all the most important areas.

Get Help from a Letting Agent

Finding a good experienced letting agent will make everything a lot easier, but make sure you choose your agent carefully. A good agent can help you with choosing a property, finding and screening suitable tenants, sorting out documentation and arranging viewings.

When things go wrong, they can resolve problems quickly so you do not have to worry about them, which can give you more peace of mind.

Go the Extra Mile

Finally, always try to do more as a landlord and go the extra mile. It’s not just about doing the basics: it’s about making sure your tenants are happy. After all, the happier they are, the longer they will stay.

Respond quickly to your tenants, fix any problems in days, not weeks, and simply be available so they can call you when they need to. You could even provide them with advice about the area, such as things to see and do, which is especially important with holiday lets.

Become a Landlord in Bristol

These are some of the main considerations if you are thinking about becoming a landlord in Bristol. Make sure you take your time over the process and don’t rush it. Finding a suitable property and the right tenants takes time and the rewards will be greater and the management easier if you invest the time in getting it right.

Working with an experienced local letting agent like Hopewell, can make the whole process so much easier and take a lot of the pressure off you. With a letting agent in charge, you can get on with your life, knowing that your property and your tennant are being properly looked after.

To find out more about our long term letting and short term letting services, get in touch today.

Posted on March 17, 2020 January 12, 2026

8 Tips for New Tenants Who Are Looking To Rent in Bristol

Bristol is a fantastic city to live in. With two world-class universities, some of the most innovative startups in the UK, fascinating historical attractions, an exciting cultural scene and surrounded by stunning countryside, it really has got it all.

If you are planning to rent a property in Bristol, you will be spoilt for choice. But there are a few things to do that will help you when you start your search. Here are eight tips to keep in mind when you are planning to rent a property in Bristol.

1. Decide on a Property Type

The first thing you have to decide upon is which type of property you want to live in. Do you want to rent a one-bedroom flat? Are you planning to share a house with a few friends? Perhaps you are looking for a place to raise a family? These will have a big impact on the type of property you want to live in.

2. Decide on a Location

Once you have a good idea about the type of property you want to rent in Bristol, you need to decide on a location. You can take your pick from vibrant Southville to the south-west of the city centre, leafy Bishopston in the north or bohemian Montpelier to name a few. Whether you want to live close to or in the city centre or get further out in the quieter suburbs, there are lots of lovely areas to live in Bristol.

Where will you be working? How long do you want your journey to work to be? Do you want to be on the edge of the city with easier access to the countryside? Perhaps you are commuting and want to be close to Bristol Temple Meads. These are all important considerations, so make sure you do your research.

3. Know What You Can Afford

Your budget will be a big consideration when you rent a place to live in Bristol, and it will be affected by the type of property and the location. So when you have a good idea about the type of property you want to rent and where you want to live, research the rental prices.

You may find that some areas are more expensive to live in than others, and living near to the city centre or in a very popular area like Clifton or Southville may be more costly. Do your research to get a good idea of what you can afford, and have a maximum budget in mind to avoid agreeing to rent somewhere you cannot afford.

4. Gather Your References

If you have rented a property before somewhere else in the UK, make sure you get a reference from your previous landlord. This should not be a problem as long as you have been a good tenant.

If this is your first time renting a property, obviously this will not be possible. This is a valid reason for not having a reference, so it should not be a big problem – everyone has to start somewhere. Your landlord may be happy to accept a reference from your employer instead.

5. Get Prepared

You will need to provide your landlord or agency with some details, so prepare this in advance to avoid any delays. Then when you find a place you like the look of, you won’t have to waste time and potentially miss out to another tenant.

For example, proof of employment might be required to show that you can afford the rent. You will also have to show a form of ID like a passport or driving licence, so make sure you have one ready.

Also, make sure you save up a tenancy deposit and have one month’s rent ready in advance so you can start renting as soon as you find somewhere you like.

6. Find Trusted Estate Agents

It’s a good idea to look for trusted Bristol letting agents to help you in your search. A company with a good reputation is hugely important so start by reading some online reviews or asking around.

It’s great to have a letting agent you can trust, and they can also provide you with regular updates on the latest properties. They should provide clear tenant information so you know what to expect in terms of tenancy deposits, early termination fees and more. Also, are they registered with The Property Ombudsman (TPO) or another professional body?

7. Arrange a Viewing

Once you’ve found an estate agent, they will suggest a few properties to you, and you can arrange a viewing. Always make sure you view the property. No matter how lovely the photos look, you need to see the property for yourself as photos can be deceiving.

Take notes during the viewing and ask if you can take photos as well. Take along a checklist of all the essential things you are looking for, and keep a record so you don’t lose track. Also, try to ask the existing tenants for their opinions if you meet them, and keep an eye out for potential problems.

8. Check Everything Before You Sign

Hopefully, you will find somewhere you like the look of after a few viewings. But don’t rush into signing the tenancy agreement, and always check everything over first.

Ask the agency lots of questions, and make sure your deposit will be protected in a tenancy deposit protection scheme. Know what your responsibilities are as well as the landlord’s responsibilities, and ask to see the Gas Safety Certificate and the Energy Performance Certificate.

When you are ready, read through the tenancy agreement carefully, and consider getting a solicitor to read it as well. When you are happy, sign the contract and get ready to move in.

Find Your New Place in Bristol

Renting a new home in Bristol is exciting, especially because you’ll be living in a fantastic city. But make sure you go about your search properly. Follow these tips and you’ll soon find the perfect place to live in Bristol so you can enjoy all that the city has to offer.

Posted on January 29, 2020 December 29, 2020

How To Be a Good Landlord

Whether you let out a property for overnight stays or long-term tenancies, being a good landlord should always be a priority.

By taking your responsibilities seriously, not only will you help to make your tenants’ stays more pleasant, but you can also help to keep your property occupied for longer, making it a win-win situation.

If you’re a landlord, here’s what you should be doing.

Make Sure Your Property Is Safe

One of your primary responsibilities as a landlord is to ensure your tenants or guests are safe during their stay. This mainly concerns the following areas:

Gas safety – hire a Gas Safe registered engineer to visit your property annually and carry out checks on all gas equipment.

Fire safety – ensure all furniture and furnishings meet legal fire-safety standards.

Electricity safety – hire an NICEIC-registered electrician to carry out safety checks on all your equipment.

These are just a starting point, and you should also make sure your property has solid locks on all the doors and windows as well as installing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. It’s a good idea to carry out a full risk assessment to spot any danger signs and get them fixed.

Provide All the Essentials

Think carefully about all the things that your guests will need during their stay and make sure they can access them.

High-speed broadband, a high-definition TV, an iron, a dishwasher, glasses, dishes, toilet paper, utensils – these are all things that they will want and expect if you are letting your property out for short stays.

If you are letting an unfurnished property for longer periods, the essentials will be less comprehensive, but your tenants will still have a list of things they expect. They may not even notice when they find everything they need – but they will certainly complain when they don’t.

Be Available

There may be times when your tenants want some help or advice, so make sure you are there for them. Ensure they have your telephone number, and let them know that they can contact you if they need to.

Tenants will often need to contact you occasionally, and they will appreciate being able to get hold of you when something goes wrong or they need assistance. It’s also in your best interests to deal with problems quickly to prevent them from getting any worse.

Provide a Welcome Pack

Make your guests feel welcome as soon as they step through the door by creating a simple welcome pack. This could include instructions for how to use the washing machine, how to access the wi-fi, and important telephone numbers (including yours!).

If you are running a holiday let, explain the checking-out procedure and provide your guests with local information. Remember, your guests might be completely new to the area. So if you are letting out a property in Bristol, you could include details of the historical attractions, nearby bars and restaurants, the best museums and art galleries, the contact details for some good local takeaways, and a map of the area.

It won’t take much effort on your part, but it can help to make their stay a better one right from the moment they arrive.

Clean Up Before Every New Guest

Every time a tenant leaves, make sure you give the property a proper clean. Most tenants will leave the place more or less how they found it, but you should still clean up after them. The next tenants will not appreciate arriving to find food on the floor and unwashed cups in the sink.

Create a checklist of all the areas of the property that you need to clean so you can ensure you don’t miss anything.

Regularly Check Your Property

In between periods of occupation, make it a habit to check over your property to spot any problems. You could do this when you clean the property after each tenant leaves.

Spot a patch of damp forming? Find a window that doesn’t lock properly? Is a tap dripping? Sort them out. By keeping on top of things on a regular basis, you can ensure guests always find your property in top condition, saving them and you hassle when they have to call you out to fix it.

Make Them Feel Special

While the amount of work you put into making sure your tenants or guests have a good time is up to you, you might want to go the extra mile and make them feel really special. This can often be achieved by making a bit of extra effort, and the payoff can be huge when they have a wonderful time and leave you a glowing review.

For holiday lets, consider leaving your guests some food and drink to get them started, like an unopened pack of tea or even a bottle of wine. Ensure the beds are comfortable by investing in some high-quality sheets and duvets, and buy some new soap and shampoo for each guest.

The Best Way to Let Your Property

This can seem like a lot of work, but all of these things are really the basics that you should be following if you want to ensure your guests enjoy a pleasant stay in your property. However, if you don’t have the time to carry out all of these steps, we would be happy to do it for you.

At Hopewell, you can take advantage of our property management service and short let management to take the hassle out of managing your property to let. Not only will this free up your time, but it will also give you peace of mind in knowing that your property and tenants are being looked after properly.