Practical answers for property owners
Property advice for landlords and sellers
Explore practical steps when selling, letting, changing managing agents or dealing with an inherited or leasehold home. Our guidance focuses on the choices owners face, rather than generic location pages.
Changing letting agents
Review the existing agency agreement for notice, termination fees and any continuing commission. Request a written handover covering the tenancy agreement, deposit, rent ledger, keys, inventory, safety records and pending repairs. The tenancy does not ordinarily end just because the agent changes.
Renting out your home when moving abroad
Ask your lender whether you need consent to let, check the policy with your insurer and arrange appropriate landlord cover. Plan an inventory, safety compliance, arrangements for UK correspondence, emergency repairs and an authorised local contact.
Inherited property: sell or let?
Executors should distinguish estate administration and their legal authority from the commercial decision whether to retain or sell. A rental may produce income but also requires insurance, regulatory compliance, maintenance and agreement between those entitled to decide.
Selling a flat affected by cladding or EWS1
Before marketing, obtain reliable information about the building's fire-safety position, remediation programme, funding arrangements and any EWS1 document. An EWS1 form is not legally required for every flat; lenders may have their own assessment requirements.
Selling a leasehold flat with high service charges
High or disputed service charges can affect buyer confidence. Assemble recent accounts, budgets, anticipated major works, ground rent details and management information early. Explain unusual charges accurately and distinguish estimates from sums already demanded.
Landlord compliance checklist
A letting requires property-specific checks, which may include gas safety, electrical safety, energy efficiency, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, licensing, deposit rules, immigration checks and other current duties. The requirements depend on the property and applicable law.
Should I sell or let my property?
Compare realistic sales evidence with achievable rent, ongoing management costs, maintenance reserves, mortgage commitments and potential void periods. Consider your cash requirements and whether you want the ongoing obligations of being a landlord.
Downsizing and selling your home
A considered selling timetable can help coordinate a purchase or move, decluttering, repairs, marketing and conveyancing. Where the property is leasehold, management information may need to be requested early.
Selling a property after separation
A sale involving separating co-owners needs clear written instructions and agreement on access, marketing and offers. Estate agency advice cannot replace independent family or property law advice about ownership or proceeds.
Managing an empty rental property
Empty homes may need periodic inspections, insurance compliance, security, heating or water precautions and essential repairs. An agent can help coordinate approved work and plan the next letting.
Understanding rental profit and void periods
Gross rental yield does not account for management fees, maintenance, insurance, certificates, void periods, financing or tax. Compare sustainable net income against the property value and risks, not just the advertised monthly rent.
Probate property clearance and sale
Before clearance, executors should identify items to retain, value or distribute and obtain authority for disposal. Agree quotations and document decisions. A cleared, secure home can then be assessed for repairs and marketing.
Changing a residential block managing agent
Directors of a resident management company should review the existing appointment, the lease and management responsibilities, then plan a controlled transfer of accounts, contracts, insurance, compliance records, arrears information and funds.