Flats For Rent In The Uk

Flat hunting can take up a lot of time but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you are moving into your first flat, with a partner, or downsizing from a house to a flat, there are a number of things you need to consider when looking for flats for rent in the UK.

Decide on Budget and Area

There is no point in hunting for flats that are £20,000 per calendar month unless you can genuinely afford it! There are many sites online which allow you to enter search criteria such as budget, location by postcode and tenancy length to ensure you can narrow your search and find properties to suit you.

Always View the Flat

When you have found a few flats that look reasonably priced and in the right location for you, make sure you arrange a viewing. Don’t rely on estate agents pictures – the images that websites and agents will show you are usually taken to make the space look as modern, clean, and spacious as possible. You won’t be able to see the flat properly and in its true light unless you go to see it yourself.

What is Included in the Rent Price?

Some landlords may only charge rent whilst you have to arrange utility payments, water rates, TV licences etc for yourself. Flat shares may offer extras included in the rent to make the value-for-money aspect more appealing, but don’t be drawn in by this – make sure you stay realistic and decide whether it really is as cost effective as it seems.

Don’t Pay for a Viewing

Some scam agents may try to charge you for viewings. This doesn’t happen very often, but you do have to be aware of it! If an agent tries to charge you before you look at a flat, avoid them in the future – it’s illegal and you could end up parting with more money than necessary.

Keep an Open Mind

If you know you have a low budget and you are expecting a lot from a rental flat, then you need to get out of that mindset. Cheap flats will have minor faults. Whether this is an old fashioned kitchen, a tiny bathroom or fluorescent yellow walls in the bedroom, don’t let small details put you off. Even if a kitchen is old, it will still be functionable; no one needs vast amounts of space in a bathroom; and walls can be painted!

Furnished or Unfurnished?

When looking around, ask questions about furniture or appliances which come with the flat – many kitchens will be supplied with white goods, some flats will come completely bare. If this is your first flat and you don’t have any furniture already, you will need to factor this into your budget and buy the essentials before you move in (this can be quite expensive, so part furnished or furntshed flats are best for new tenants!).

To summarise, it is important to research and think of the pricing details before you choose a flat. Always view properties and stick with estate agents you trust.