Finding the right home for winter
It should not be the case but sadly for many tenants, winter will be a bigger ordeal than it should be thanks to unscrupulous landlords.
Feeling cosy in a nice home for winter is simply magical and very important.
A good EPC rating
EPC certificates show how energy efficient a property is and are graded from A to G, with A being the most energy efficient and G the least. So, it’s in your interests to choose a property with a higher rating. It’s been a legal requirement since 2018 for rented properties in the UK to have a minimum energy rating of E. EPC recommendations can include improving floor insulation, replacing boilers, and fitting LED light bulbs. So, picking a property with a good EPC rating will insulate you from the winter months.
Inspect the property thoroughly
Don’t underestimate yourself when it comes to carrying out a visual inspection of the property when you are viewing it. The property description will specify its features and EPC rating. But it’s comforting to check for yourself. So, take a look at the windows, the location of the boiler, and the condition of the appliances to get a feel for how well-insulated the property is. If the property appears and feels fresh and well-maintained, then chances are it is.
Ask the right questions
Good agents are a fountain of knowledge, so use it. The more information you can find out about your potential new home, the better. You want to feel as settled and as happy as possible with your new home. This comes with the peace of mind a property expert can bring to the table. From understanding your lease to protecting your deposit, and all the other details of your tenancy that matter to you. Then you will feel more relaxed in your home when it’s time to snuggle up for the winter.
Rent with support
Property maintenance should never be overlooked. Sometimes renting can lead to tenants finding themselves in a property with a myriad of maintenance issues. Renting through an agent could provide you with the opportunity to choose a fully managed property. This will offer 24/7 maintenance support, meaning issues get addressed quickly. But there is more to a home than maintaining it. Finding a home in the right location so that you are close to the people or the things you love all makes for a happier life.
Enlist the help of a good agent
It’s certainly not impossible to find a good property independently but using an agent will make it easier. Having a third party that ensures your home is compliant and is just a phone call away has a lot of benefits. A good letting agent will be there to represent you throughout your tenancy. Yes, agents also represent the interests of landlords but because of this, tenants benefit from living in properties of a higher standard, which is ideal for keeping the winter at bay.
Contact us to find your next home for all seasons
This article was originally published by BriefYourMarket and is reproduced here with their permission.
For more company news and insights from Pygott & Crone, click here
Latest news
Shared ownership: Is it a stepping stone or a trap?
Shared ownership is one of the most widely discussed routes onto the property ladder for first-time buyers who cannot afford to purchase outright.
Conveyancing Explained: What Happens Between Offer and Completion
The moment a seller accepts an offer feels like the conclusion of a long process.
Why Families Are House Hunting Right Now Instead of August
The family buyer is the most time-constrained purchaser in the property market.
The Green Upgrades Tenants Actually Care About vs The Ones They Don't
The language around energy efficiency in rental properties has become increasingly technical.
