Choosing the right letting agent

In this article, we share six simple tips to help landlords choose the right letting agent to work on their behalf.

Finding a good letting agent can often be a tough task for landlords. We look at how you can increase your chances of finding the perfect letting agent to help you get the most from your rental property.

The letting agency market

The letting agency business is a very competitive one. There are literally thousands in the UK!

No doubt there are several where you live (if not, then that’s a gap in the market right there). And with so many different letting agents to choose from, finding the right one to let your property can be daunting, bewildering and often stressful.

Whether you want an agency to simply find you a tenant or manage your property, it pays to take your time, do your research and listen to expert advice.

That’s why we came up with these tips to make landlords’ lives that little bit easier. Six things to think about before you instruct a letting agent to market and/or possibly manage your property.

Six things to think about before you instruct a letting agent to market and/or possibly manage your property.

1. Do they have a track record in renting properties like yours? Ask for evidence of properties like yours that they have let and achieved a good monthly rent on with stable tenants.
2. Do they have client reviews and testimonials? A good agent will always have previous clients who will vouch for them or have positively reviewed them. Don’t be afraid to ask to meet or speak with these people over the phone.
3. Do you like them? Depending on what you want from a letting agent you could be working closely with them so it’s important that whoever you choose is someone you like and trust. If in doubt, our advice is always to follow your instinct.
4. Money, money, money. Remember the old saying ‘If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys? Well it’s never truer than in the world of letting agency. Those agents who offer very low fees are often desperate for instructions. Ask yourself why they are so desperate for new business? Is it because they can’t keep current clients happy?
5. Where do they advertise? There are more and more buyers who search on the internet. So, ask the agents where they would advertise your property. It’s also worth asking an agency how its marketing strategy differs from its competitors. What makes it stand out from the crowd? What is their plan to market your property?
6. What kind of contracts do they offer? Ask the agents about the length of their standard contracts. It can vary wildly from three months up to 18 months – which in our opinion is far too long.

The most important question

Perhaps the biggest question you’ll need to answer is, do you want to use the letting agent simply to find a good tenant?

Or do you want them to manage the property? There are pros and cons to outsourcing your property management.

Thanks to Rentila’s easy to use property management software, many landlords are discovering they can do without letting agents to manage their properties. This can save a lot of money and put landlords in control of how their property is treated and maintained.

FAQs

What should I look for when choosing a letting agent?

Check their experience, fees, local market knowledge, and the services they offer—tenant finding, full management, or rent collection only. Look for accreditation (ARLA, NALS), clear communication, and good reviews. A reliable agent protects your property and reduces your workload.

How much do letting agents typically charge?

Fees vary widely. Tenant-find services may cost one month’s rent, while full management usually ranges from 10–15% of monthly rent. Always ask for a full fee breakdown, including renewal charges, inspection fees, and maintenance commissions, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Is using a letting agent worth it for landlords?

It depends on your time, experience, and how hands-on you want to be. A good agent can handle compliance, tenant screening, maintenance, and day-to-day issues. If you prefer a passive approach or live far from the property, an agent can be a valuable investment.

Things to remember

• Choose an agent with proven experience and trustworthy reviews : Look for agents who have successfully rented properties similar to yours and can show real results. Check reviews, testimonials, and ask to speak with previous clients. A strong track record and positive feedback are the best signs of reliability and professionalism.
• Compare fees, contracts, and marketing quality—not just the price : Very low fees can signal poor service. Ask how long their contracts last, where they advertise, and what makes their marketing strategy effective. A good agent should offer clear terms, strong exposure for your property, and transparent pricing without hidden costs.
• Decide whether you need full management or just tenant-find : Before choosing an agent, be clear about what you actually need: finding tenants only or full property management. Many landlords now manage their own rentals with digital tools like Rentila, saving money and keeping more control. Choose the option that fits your time, skills, and comfort level.