5 Questions Every Landlord Should Ask Before Choosing a Letting Agent

Poor communication, unsuitable tenants, long void periods, and mounting stress are all-too-common symptoms of working with the wrong agent. And with the upcoming Renters Reform Bill poised to bring major changes to the rental landscape, having a knowledgeable, reliable expert by your side has never been more critical.

So how can you tell if a letting agent is the real deal?

By asking these five essential questions, landlords can separate professionals from pretenders—and avoid costly mistakes.

Reputable letting agents take pride in their track record. At Browns Estate Agents, we’re proud of the feedback we receive from both landlords and tenants. Check out our reviews, testimonials, and case studies to see the consistent results we deliver. A letting agent’s online reputation tells you everything you need to know about how they treat their clients—and how they’ll treat you.

The best agents don’t just list properties—they showcase them. We use professional photography, detailed floor plans, engaging video tours, and smart social media marketing to make sure your property stands out and reaches the right audience. Quality marketing attracts quality tenants—and helps reduce costly void periods.

Finding the right tenant isn’t down to luck—it’s down to process. At Browns, our thorough vetting process includes credit checks, employment verification, landlord references, and affordability assessments. Especially as new reforms are rolled out, starting with the right tenant can save you time, money, and stress down the line.

Tenant deposits must legally be held in a government-approved scheme—but compliance doesn’t stop there. The Renters Reform Bill will bring more scrutiny on legal responsibilities, tenant rights, and property standards. We stay ahead of the legislation, so you’re never caught out. Peace of mind comes as standard with Browns.

Full management means more than just collecting rent. With Browns, it means regular inspections, swift maintenance handling, tenant support, and full compliance management. As Section 21 evictions face abolition and a new Ombudsman scheme comes into play, having a proactive, knowledgeable agent matters more than ever.

Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned property investor, we’re here to support you at every step.

Contact our friendly, expert team by calling us on 0191 455 9617 or pop in and see us at our office in Westoe—we’d be happy to answer your questions.