In a turbulent market, the use of letting agents is expected to rise due to the expertise and wealth of information they possess. One of the main reasons is that lettings agents have the experience and contacts needed to help ensure the property will be occupied and well maintained during the letting period.

The NAEA expects some landlords to be concerned about the slowing market and has put together some helpful hints to aid the rental of buy-to-let property and selecting a letting agent:

• Firstly, just because the letting agent provides you with the lowest fees or highest potential rental – do not let this hinder your judgement. Instead seek rental comparisons on similar properties as well as the level of demand in the local area. Also you must verify what you will receive for your fees in terms of service and professionalism.

• Ensure that your agent is clued up on all the relevant legislation and procedures especially in regards to inventories and reference checking. A first-class agent will have a thorough understanding of the market and nature of demand in the area. They will also have a ‘bulging’ contacts book of local contractors for repair work.

• It is vital that the agent is a member of a professional body, such as the NAEA. This demonstrates professionalism and experience and ensures high levels of service for both you and your tenants. Members of the NAEA who are also Partners or Directors of their firm must also have professional indemnity insurance and Client Money Insurance which provides you with protection.

• Fourthly, it is of paramount importance that you verify your contract with the letting agent, paying close attention to the fees payable and your responsibilities.

• Finally, watch out Laurence Llewlyn Bowen! A first-rate letting agent should have enough expertise to provide you with useful guidance on how to make your property shine inside and out, for example offering a helping hand on furnishings and décor along with how best to target your property at a variety of tenants.

Peter Bolton King continues, "With careful positioning, it is still possible to fill empty properties. Figures from our June housing market survey show that 60% of rented properties in the last year were unfurnished and only 40% were furnished."

There was an average of six unfurnished properties rented per NAEA lettings agent in June compared to only five furnished properties. The gap widens further on a yearly basis with 18 furnished properties being let per agent over the past 12 months compared to 27 unfurnished properties.

Peter Bolton King said, "It’s important to position your property in-line with market demands. Talking to an NAEA member or reading local newspaper or property website will help to keep you informed."