Long Let: Make an offer to an occupied property or not?

[catislovely]

I’m new to UK and looking for a Long Let. I do interested in a flat after the viewing yesterday.

The letting agent said the current tenant will be moved out a month later, i.e. in the end of October. Then, the agent company will take a couple days for checking and cleaning. It’s expected that I could do the inventory check on 1 Nov, sign the agreement right after and move-in immediately. She said if I’m interested then the process could be started with referencing, paying holding deposit and preview the contract, etc.

Your advice is appreciated on the following:-
i) Do you think is there any chance that the flat would turn out not yet ready on 1 Nov, after one month of waiting?

ii) If I make the offer and start the process now, and meanwhile view and make offer for other properties. Is it ethical or not?

iii) If I don’t make the offer now, is there any chance that someone else will make the offer even it’s still occupied and the final condition / inventory / move-in date are a bit unsure?

Thank you for your advice in advance.

[LondonStone]

Hi! I’m a renter and have experienced all kinds of good and bad but I would say;

1. The flat will almost certainly be ready by 1st Nov if that’s the date you’ve been given. I’ve never been delayed even when a flat was left unclean by the previous tenant, the agency got cleaners in ASAP and was ready for me on the day.
   

1. If you make an offer, you’ll probably pay 1 weeks rent as a holding deposit which you will lose if you pull out. I would say it’s maybe a bit unethical but most landlords are shit and I don’t feel sorry for any of them so 🤷🏻‍♀️ Just be aware you’ll lose the money
   

1. Totally depends how in demand the property is. But yes, generally people will make an offer if they like the place. We’ve made offers on flats and houses instantly whilst viewing even if people live there or dates aren’t set.

[catislovely]

Hi LondonStone, thank you for your sharing and sounds like I should go ahead.

However, for point 1, in case there're some problems on the move-in date, usually how long the agent / landlord will get them fixed?

For example, (i) defects, e.g. crack on the wall or water leakage from sink/tub, or (ii) heaters or white goods not working.

Thanks again.