What kind of feedback should lettings agents give to landlords?
Well, Property Moves has been in business for over thirty years and we’ve plenty of ups and downs in the sector – but mainly things remain upbeat. With a thriving lettings market in Brighton and Hove, our answer to this question is straightforward:
Feedback should be honest, professional and constructive.
Doesn’t that sound obvious?
Yes, but in many cases it’s easier to tell someone what they want to hear rather than what they need to hear. The path of least resistance, as it were. We’ve built a sustainable business on putting our clients first. Our focus has always been on clarity, transparency and good communication. Our view is that when it comes to advice, you deserve high standards.
And, feedback – feedback you can do something with – is a big part of that. Right, so we’ll stop blowing our own trumpet here.
Let’s explain a bit more and get down to practicalities.
Our approach divides broadly into two:
- Before you rent to a tenant
- During the tenancy
But before any of that, you should expect a clear management agreement, with candid specifications about what the agent will do, including inspection frequency, repair authorisation limits and so on.
Plus, what they expect of you. It’s a two-way street, after all.
BEFORE: VALUATIONS
If, in our opinion, you need to consider a price adjustment, we’ll discuss it with you. Brighton, Hove and Sussex are attractive to would-be renters and properties can command good returns, but it’s still a renters’ market. And, there are other factors to consider – see below.
An experienced agency will have broad sector knowledge, with good insights into market conditions, rental trends and how best to maximise your income.
Our valuation may differ from the one you expect, based on the following:
Marketing
In our view, you’ll appreciate clear-cut responses on marketing efforts, including the number of viewings and how listings on portals have performed.
Location
The property could be some distance from public transport, schools, amenities or shops. Nobody wants to walk a long distance for a pint of milk. Also, there may be issues with noise levels or neighbourhood standards.
The Property Moves team’s knowledge of specific local areas is second to none, so do consider their feedback.
Property Condition
Generally, the better the condition, the higher the rent. This makes total sense. But, it’s possible simply not to notice things after a while. Let a lettings agent be blunt with you!
Clean, well-maintained walls, carpets and flooring are a must. Avoid the “wrong” furniture – for example, clunky or mismatched chairs in a lounge. Think: Would I want to live there?
Also, we know that large, light and airy rooms are a more appealing prospect than, say, a darker or cramped space.
Here’s The Thing:
You need actionable feedback, not just negative comments; things you can put right. So, rather than“the kitchen looks a little shabby”, specific, achievable tasks are much the better option. Hearing that “the applicant didn’t like the furniture”, isn’t useful. On the other hand, a real-world, to-do list could substantially impact your valuation – in a good way.
You’ll find plenty of practical advice on presentation in our previous blog, “How to prepare your property for a viewing.”
The Property Moves team will always offer detailed feedback from potential tenants to help you understand how your property has been received.
DURING VETTING
To ensure you’re getting the right kind of tenants, the vetting and moving-in process can be somewhat involved.
In our opinion, you should look for prompt updates from the agency on credit checks, referencing, and so on. Obviously, you’ll not appreciate phone calls every five minutes, but regular check-ins will solidify your good first impressions.
Also, listen to the agent whose spidey senses are telling them that this person may NOT be the right fit for you. No names, no pack drill, but sometimes we just know.
DURING THE TENANCY
Ongoing feedback is critical, too.
As a responsible landlord, you’ll need prompt feedback on:
Repairs and Maintenance: A professional agency will contact you without delay with reports on repairs needed, including possible structural issues such as mould, damp, or boiler problems.
Rent Payment Status: You need immediate notification regarding late or missed payments.
Inspection Results: Communication regarding the outcome of a property inspection is a must. It should include dates and photos to capture evidence of changes, breakages or even evidence of a breach of contract.
Also, proof that you’re fulfilling your end of the bargain.
If something needs doing, we’d recommend immediate action. A stitch in time really does save nine when it comes to keeping your property in excellent condition. (We work with trusted third-party trades professionals and can organise any remedial or repair work for you.)
Property Moves has qualified staff to carry out thorough reviews.
Costs Transparency: This should go without saying. Regarding maintenance or repairs, landlords deserve clear, upfront communication regarding fees – what’s included and when the work will be done.
Safety Checks and Balances: Landlords should always expect documented confirmation that a qualified professional has performed an annual gas inspection, a five-yearly electrical inspection, and that they have cast an expert eye over fire and smoke detectors.
Legislative Updates: As you already know, being a landlord in 2026 is more complicated than even five years ago. From deposit protection requirements to Right to Rent checks and much more, forewarned is forearmed.
The law moves on apace and often in a tenant’s favour. If new legislation is likely to affect you, you need to be up to speed.
What Kind of Feedback Should Lettings Agents Give to Landlords? What We Think
Feedback is so much more than collecting a fee and passing on messages.
The relationship between a lettings agency and its client should be a partnership. One where you can let them take ownership of a property’s management while working collaboratively.
And, like all successful partnerships there’s trust.
Ultimately, it’s all about good relationships. We can’t say fairer than that.