How long should it take for them?

[ThatShyScroller]

Hi all, I need some perspective from external people on my situation.

I am a landlord and just got a family who appeared very interested in moving into my place in Surrey. They seemed very very keen to move, and at first communication was very quick. They offered to provide a guarantor too, and sent my way their bank statements, employment contract and a few other things as an initial check. Then, messages started being delayed. I ordered a reference check package online, and emailed them confirming that a link to the form should be sent their way. There has been radio silence for a few days, and they haven't replied for a few days to my last request to confirm whether they received the link or not.

I am worried that they are just ghosting me, but I'm unsure whether this is the case? Shall I give them a deadline? Life is busy, so I appreciate that they might be waiting the weekend to complete the form. I don't want to be unreasonable , but my time to conduct viewings Is tight because I will be moving away soon. Is it right of me to keep doing viewings in the meantime? No agent is involved.

Keep doing viewings. Nothing exists with this potential tenant until they have signed the lease & paid the deposit/1st month's rent. I let my old house privately too, via OpenRent, and you have to be very business-like about it.

I would message them one last time to say "Dear Potentials, please be aware that until the lease is signed and you have paid the deposit/1st month's rent, the house is still being advertised. If you would like to proceed, please complete the referencing request, and let me know if you have any questions. Best, ShyScroller"

That's all you can do, really. But do keep showing it! It's v likely they have just changed their minds, or were flummoxed by the referencing request, which can be unfamiliar to some people, esp. if they're from overseas, but if you're using a service it should be fairly self-explanatory.

You are mad to think you don't need an agent if you are moving away. I say this having rented a house out.

Sorry but that's not what I need advice for.