The area's longest established property management & letting agency

Property Investment

Jack-of-all-Trades and Masters of None

It is no surprise that traditional estate agents are feeling the pinch and as a result of the present economic climate are either folding, or looking for alternative means of income to supplement their slow sales figures.

In recent months we have seen many estate agents sliding into the role of the property management agent. This is understandable, however the results for the client will be poor at best. Ask yourself the question, where do you go when you are feeling unwell; is it the nearest chip shop! No it’s a doctor, the same can be said when considering renting what is probably to be your largest personal investment.

Lettings and property management is a highly skilled business, and takes years to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to be qualified in this field. It isn’t just about good marketing and glossy brochures, it is about having the skills and knowledge to deal with every eventuality, and believe me there are many.

Legislation is continually changing in the lettings industry, and if something is missed it could leave the client in an extremely venerable position. Here I am not just talking about a tenant who is in arrears or that a tenant has left the garden untended; but the possibility of litigation, heavy fines and possibly imprisonment.

I cannot stress enough to any potential landlord; that the difference between traditional estate agents and professional letting agents is vast. Acting as an intermediary when selling a house is not an easy profession, and does require good negotiation skills, that is what estate agents do. They have no experience of present day legislation relating to the letting industry, nor do they understand the fundamental requirements of running a professional property management agency. Finding a tenant and raising an invoice for the client is the extent of their services, what happens in between and at the conclusion of the tenancy is of little interest.

The question still remains, why did they not migrate into the property management field before the collapse of the property market; the answer is simple, it is a really demanding industry and requires skill and dedication. This migration is about survival, and not offering the client a first class service.

Tony Williams (Director)

If you have any questions, please feel free to send me an email.