Identifying location and requirements

Working out what you can afford to pay in rent each month may help you to decide which areas to base your property search in. Consider household bills as well as the monthly rent.

More information on establishing your budget and finances can be found in our finance and budget guide.

You may already know the area you want to live in. It may be that you need to be near work, a particular school, or family, but there are other factors to consider.

Our London area guides provide a practical overview of local neighbourhood information across a wide range of London postcodes which you may find useful to identify the right location for you.

Whether or not you have a particular place in mind to move to, it is important to consider the local amenities. These may include:

• Transport links
• Dental and medical practices, and hospitals
• Parks
• Gyms
• Supermarkets and shops
• Schools
• Places of worship
• Libraries
• Restaurants and bars

Having a clear idea of your requirements will benefit you and your letting agent in making your search as easy and quick as possible. Rental properties can vary in terms of age, design, fixtures and fittings and amenities. So, think about the essential criteria but also be prepared to be flexible and compromise when a potentially suitable property becomes available.

Some questions to think about include:

• Do you need a furnished or part furnished property, or do you already have (or intend to buy) your own furniture?
• Do you need outside space?
• Are you a smoker? Nearly all landlords prohibit smoking in their properties so it is essential to check
• Do you need a parking space?
• Do you have any pets? Some landlords do not allow pets in their properties so again, it is essential to check
• Do you have any special requirements? For instance, if you have a disability that may require adjustments to the rental property

The type of let you decide upon will depend on your personal circumstances. That is why it is essential to consider what is important to you when you rent a property. The different types of let are:

• Short let – tenancies lasting less than six months
• Long let – tenancies lasting longer than six months
• Managed properties – either the landlord will manage the property or they will appoint a managing agent to handle the day to day maintenance of their property and tenants
• Corporate let – this service usually applies to corporate companies and private individuals who are looking for properties through work

For more information about the different types of let, read our guide.