Advice needed from landlords

[Bobbaz]

I am looking to put in an offer on a 1 bed flat that I'm hoping to let out. I'm just weighing up the options as to to letting it privately or use a lettings agency. If anyone has any helpful advice as to which way to go it would be appreciated.

[Peckhampam]

I've always let out privately, it is very easy and I feel far more secure than I would with agents considering everything I have heard!

[Loz]

Privately is easy enough if you can be around to show people around before letting and organising fixing stuff after letting. Suggest you join the Residential Landlords Association for advice, forms and contracts.

[dulwichgirl2]

Just wondering how you handle the "show-arounds". Women will probably not want to do those on their own and, equally, women tenants might not feel so comfortable? Maybe meet ina public place first? Not sure

[Gidget]

Try to do open house or consecutive bookings for showing possible tenants around and ask a friend to come and stay with you if you are on your own. Estate agents quite often do open house type viewings on a Saturday for sales.

[ClareC]

I use an agent..... Not ideal but when I tried privately the enquiries were all people that were high risk. Agents are good when things go wrong .....