Letting agent experts - need advice for new landlord

[MyAngels]

Hi

We've just bought a 2 bed flat to rent out - it currently has tenants, found during the purchase process by the Estate agent dealing with the sale (they are the letting agents too).

We have yet to sign the contract with the agent as we have only just completed, but a few issues during the purchase process have led us to not liking him at all (stereotypical estate agent unfortuately - you know the type) but we have inherited him, so to speak, as he was the vendor's choice.

How long do you normally "sign up" to a letting agent for? Can we change to our preferred agent at some point, even if the tenants want to stay after the first 6 months? We haven't spoken to the tenants yet, so don't know their opinion on the agent.

I would like to be forewarned of the usual letting agent/landlord relationship beforehand. We have let before, but it was 15 years ago, and that agent was fab.

Unfortunately this is the guy that gives estate agents their sorry repuatation and I want to be free of him asap.

Thanks

the letting agency business is unregulated and is full of sharks. To protect yourself, make sure they are a member of ARLA Or one of the other groups. Doesn't guarantee service (you will still end up doing all the work) but does protect you if he runs off with the money.

if you don't like him, why pay him? Find another one. This is business, not sentiment.

the tenancy is unaffected by the change of house owner, i.e. your tenants rent, notice period etc is all unchanged. But if YOU have not signed anything with the agency, I think you can change.

Have you got a tenant find only service from the Agent, or have you gone for full management?

Tenant find only - the job is done you can use whoever you like for whatever. Management service - there is probably a 2 month exit clause.

If you dont like this person, dont use him. The relationship has to be good, they can cost you a fortune in time and money.