Renting in Edinburgh

[MrsDub]

DH and I moving to Edinburgh in the Spring. On the search for a property to buy but in the meantime aiming to rent in/near Stockbridge for 3-6 months (hopefully no longer, but property).

Slim pickings on Rightmove/Gumtree (but bad time of year), we've registered with all local agencies & wondering if there are any insider tips / other avenues we could look at? Realise we are up against it looking for something unfurnished for less than a year but any ideas gratefully received!

Factotum are an agency who often do shorter term lets - might be worth a try? Assuming you've tried Citylets, S1 rental, Rightmove, Gumtree?

The rental market is very competitive here, and there's little movement at this time of year.

I think your biggest issue is the length of tenancy - most LL would not be keen to consider less than 6 months due to Scots tenancy law & the recent changes to this which were implemented on 1st Dec.

V kind and helpful moreprosecco. Hadn't tried two of those and didn't know about the new rules so that'll help a lot with approach. Thank you!

There's a company called A Flat in Town who do short term lets as well as Factotum. Although the rents look really high, do take into account council tax is included and also bills depending on company. You won't be able to get a parking permit though without a proper tenancy agreement so that might limit your choices. Good luck, Edinburgh is fantastic

Great tip @Arkengarthdale - thanks - have dropped them a line!

ESPC.com might be worth a look

Tenancy laws in Scotland changed on 1december significantly. There is no such thing now as a 6 month lease under the short assured scheme.

I agree with checking espc.

Will do, thanks both!

Lettingweb
S1 homes
Citylets

Would be my first port of call. Unfortunately the huge boom in Airb&b rentals and management companies which make it easy now has really affected the rental market. Renting further out than Stockbridge would give more options. If you can't afford to buy what you want in Stockbridge i would pay the premuim to rent there.

Also if you are wanting something in the spring nothing will be on yet. People need to give notice and won't usually give more than 1 months notice, so normally things become available 1- 2 months before they are avaiable to let. Nothing on now will be available spring time i would imagine.

We found ours through a relocation agent - depending on your budget that might be an option? The one we used only does corporate referrals but you could try Barbara at Edinburgh Property Finders

And OutandIntoday makes a good point - a month to two weeks before you want to move was fine for us. You could also post on the Edinburgh local page

Fab advice all round, thanks so much - so glad I asked you lovely lot! Made good progress on all avenues, much appreciated x