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How to Approach Letting Agents to Secure a Rent-to-Rent Property

Sep 19, 2024
negotiating with letting agent on the phone about rent to rent property

Here’s our professional guide on how to approach discussions with letting agents to secure suitable rent-to-rent properties:

 

Prioritise Relationship Building:

Understand that the property business thrives on relationships. Take your time to establish connections with letting agents. Don't be disheartened if everything doesn't fall into place immediately. Building trust and rapport is a gradual process.

 

Emphasise the Benefits for the Agents:

Clearly outline what's in it for the letting agents. Remind them that they will still receive:

 Tenant find fee from the landlord

  • On-going management fee (effortlessly managed by you)
  • Mark-up on repairs and maintenance that they take care of (if applicable)

 

Addressing Tenant Referencing Fees:

While you will be responsible for your referencing fees, inform the agents that ongoing referencing fees won't apply due to the long-term agreement. Be open to negotiation on this aspect, ensuring the conversation remains positive and solution-oriented.

 

Clarify Their Role in Property Management:

Reinforce that the letting agent’s role in the eyes of the property owner remains intact. They are still perceived as managing the property. Your involvement makes their job easier as you handle tenant concerns directly, allowing them to focus on other tasks.

 

Approach General Agents with Confidence:

When dealing with agents, convey your credibility and commitment. Highlight your intention to take on multiple properties, making you an attractive prospect for them. However, be discerning; don’t rush into viewing every property suggested without confirming with the decision-maker.

 

Suggested Script

Now, let's put the above into action with this suggested call script:

  1. Start with a Friendly Greeting and Introduction: "Good [morning/afternoon], this is [Your Name] from [Your Company Name], how are you today?"

  2. Brief Purpose of Call: "I'm reaching out to discuss a potential partnership opportunity that I believe could be mutually beneficial for [Letting Agency's Name] and your landlords. Do you have a moment to talk?"

  3. Acknowledge Their Expertise: "I understand that [Letting Agency's Name] is a leader in the [specific
    area] market, and your expertise in managing properties is well-regarded."

  4. Briefly Introduce Your Business Model: "Our company specialises in rent-to-rent agreements, where we lease properties on a long-term basis and manage them as serviced accommodations or HMOs, depending on the property type and location."

  5. Emphasise Stability and Guaranteed Rent: "We offer landlords stability through guaranteed rent for the duration of the lease, typically 3-5 years, regardless of occupancy rates."

  6. Highlight Professional Management: "Our team manages all aspects of the property, from maintenance to tenant queries, ensuring that the property is well taken care of and reducing wear and tear."

  7. Stress No Fees for Landlords: "We take on the property without any management fees to the landlord, providing a hassle-free experience and potentially higher returns compared to traditional lets."

  8. Assurance and Trust: "We understand the importance of trust in these agreements. We're fully
    insured and operate with complete transparency. We can provide references from other landlords
    we've worked with."

  9. Flexibility and Customisation: "Each agreement we enter is tailor-made to suit the landlord's needs and preferences, ensuring they're comfortable and confident in the arrangement."

  10. Propose a Meeting or Further Discussion: "I'd love to discuss how we can work together in more detail. Would it be possible to arrange a meeting with you or the appropriate person within your agency to explore this further?"

  11. Offer to Send More Information: "Can I send over some more detailed information about our model and how it can benefit your portfolio?"

  12. Thank Them for Their Time: "Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I'm looking forward to the possibility of working together."

  13. Confirm Next Steps: "I'll follow up with an email and look forward to your response. Have a great day!"

 

Remember, personalisation and flexibility in your approach are crucial. Tailor the script to each call based on the response you receive at each stage. Being prepared to answer questions and provide clear, concise information will help build trust and interest.

Your success lies in creating win-win situations. Approach these discussions with confidence, emphasising how your approach enhances their operations. 

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