How long it typically take to find a rental property?

[Coffee21]

I don’t know when to start looking. I have to vacate my current property by the end of February. When do I start looking for another? 1 week before or longer than this? Thank you.

I would start looking around now at what is available and registering interest with local agents to keep you posted. It take time to find a suitable place, get all the paperwork in place, checks etc and plan the move. Certainly wouldn’t leave it to the week before unless you’re looking for just one room in a house share and have only a couple of suitcases - then you probably can leave it for a few more weeks.

I'd already be looking

Last time we rented was about 10 years ago, but I remember it took about 3-4 weeks for the paperwork, credit checks etc. to be sorted.

And even before that stage you have to find one you like and view. I'd be looking now.

Oh my goodness. Longer than I thought. I need a flat or house, not a house share.

Round here, rental properties are being snapped up crazy fast. I would not want to be trying to scramble against that at the last minute.