Letting out a property might seem straightforward at first glance. Find a tenant, collect rent, handle the odd repair. Simple, right?
In reality, being a landlord involves far more than that, especially if you want to protect your investment, stay on the right side of the law, and avoid tenant headaches. That’s where a letting agent comes in.
Whether you're a first-time landlord or you've been doing it for years, here’s why working with a professional letting agent often makes more sense than trying to go it alone.
1. Legal compliance is a minefield
The private rental sector is heavily regulated, and the rules change quite often. From deposit protection schemes to gas safety certificates, right to rent checks, EPCs, HMO licensing, and the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill, there’s a lot for you stay on top of.
Get something wrong, and you could face fines, penalties, or even be unable to evict a tenant when needed. A good letting agent will keep you compliant and up to date, reducing your legal risk significantly.
2. Finding the right tenant isn’t as easy as it sounds
Getting a tenant quickly isn’t the goal — getting the right tenant is. That means properly vetting applicants, running background and credit checks, verifying income, and assessing their rental history.
Letting agents have systems in place to screen tenants thoroughly, which helps prevent late payments, property damage, and disputes. If you've ever dealt with a difficult tenant, you’ll know how much that matters.
3. Marketing the property well takes time (and know-how)
When you list a property yourself, you’re relying on your own photos, description, and ability to respond to enquiries. If the ad isn’t compelling or professional, it might sit empty for weeks.
Letting agents know how to position and promote your property to attract the right interest. They’ll use professional photos, accurate floor plans, and write listings that get clicks, often with access to premium listings on the major portals like Rightmove and Zoopla.
4. Tenants expect a professional service
Tenants don’t just want somewhere to live — they want a responsive, professional landlord. If something breaks, they expect it to be fixed quickly. If they have a question, they want an answer.
Letting agents provide a buffer between landlord and tenant. That means fewer late-night phone calls for you, and a more professional experience for the tenant, which can lead to longer tenancies and fewer issues
5. Rent collection and arrears management are handled for you
Chasing rent is awkward and time-consuming. Worse still, it can sour your relationship with the tenant. Letting agents handle rent collection and deal with any arrears according to proper procedures. Some even offer rent guarantee schemes for extra peace of mind.
6. Repairs, maintenance, and inspections are easier to manage
Managing repairs yourself means sourcing trusted tradespeople, getting quotes, arranging access, and following up. Agents usually have a network of reliable contractors they work with regularly. They also carry out regular inspections, which helps keep your property in good condition and spot issues early.
7. Time is money — and agents save you bot
Even if you’re confident in your ability to manage a let, the real question is: do you want to? And do you have the time?
Between advertising, viewings, referencing, compliance, rent collection, repairs, and paperwork, managing a property properly can feel like a part-time job. Letting agents take the hassle off your plate, so you can focus on other things — or just enjoy the passive income.
8. When DIY letting might still make sense
There are cases where self-managing your property could work:
You live very close to the property
You have reliable, long-term tenants
You’re confident in your legal knowledge
You have time to deal with issues as they arise
But even then, it’s often worth having an agent handle tenant-find or full management on a trial basis — especially if your circumstances change.
Want some local advice?
Letting a property without an agent might save you a monthly fee, but it can cost far more in time, stress, and potential legal problems.
A good letting agent does more than just find tenants, they protect your investment, keep you compliant, and make your life easier. For most landlords, that’s worth every penny.
If your a landlord with property in Beverley, Driffield, Hornsea, or anywhere in East Yorkshire get in touch for a quick chat and see how we can help you make the most of your investment.
Maddie Lancaster is an ARLA qualified letting agent with over 10 years of experience in the UK rental market. Rent East Yorkshire specialises in property management services for landlords across the East Riding of Yorkshire.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Specific legal advice should be sought for particular circumstances.
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