You may want to let your property yourself.  If you are new to the landlord business, you may like to 'test the water' by letting first on an assured shorthold, so that you need only commit yourself to six months. Whatever you do, it is advisable to seek the help of a Citizens Advice Bureau, law centre or solicitor, and you must make sure, if your property is subject to a mortgage, that you have obtained your lenders written consent to let it before you start looking for tenants.

If you do not wish to become involved in the detail of being a landlord yourself, you may like to employ managing agents. Many firms of letting and estate agents offer a letting and management service. See Directory of letting agents.

If you would like to help someone in need by letting your empty property, but do not want the worry of managing the let, then a housing association may be able to help you. Housing associations can manage or lease your property and return it to you at the end of a fixed period with vacant possession. Bear in mind that the rents charged by most housing associations are below market levels, and they will need to cover their management costs.This means that the income you will get may be lower than from other forms of letting, but you will have no "hassle" - just the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped someone in need.

© The Letting Centre

This site is maintained by the Letting Centre Ltd. The Letting Centre cannot provide legal or technical advice to landlords or tenants. If you require legal or technical assistance please contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau, Housing Advice Centre or a solicitor

The Letting Centre,
Old Vicarage,
Withycombe Village Road,
Exmouth, EX8 3AG.
Tel: (01395) 271122