How to prepare for flat hunting in London when living abroad

What flat hunting in London is like

Searching for a flat in London can be an exciting but challenging experience. The city's competitive rental market, diverse neighbourhoods, and high demand for properties can make the flat hunting process seem daunting. However, with proper preparation and an understanding of what to expect, you can navigate through the journey more efficiently. In this guide, we will walk you through what flat hunting is like in London, providing valuable insights and tips to help you succeed in finding your piece of the city.

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Intense Competition 🏃

London's rental market is highly competitive, with many applicants vying for limited available properties. Being proactive and responsive when contacting letting agents or landlords is essential. Promptly scheduling viewings and submitting applications can give you an edge in securing your desired flat.

The flat hunting process in London moves quickly. Desirable properties often receive multiple inquiries and can be rented out within hours or days of being listed. It's crucial to act swiftly, regularly check property listings, and set up alerts to stay updated with new listings. Being proactive and prepared will increase your chances of securing your preferred flat.

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High demand, limited availability 🥵

London is a vibrant city with diverse neighbourhoods, each offering its own appeal. However, popular areas often have limited availability and higher rental prices. It's important to be flexible and consider exploring alternative neighbourhoods that may still meet your requirements but offer more affordable options.

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Expensive places 💷

Rent in London is incredibly expensive. It's so expensive to rent in London that it takes anywhere from 30%-50% of people's wages. Additionally, renting in London often requires upfront costs, including a security deposit and the first month's rent. However, it's important to note, rental agents can't charge you to view a property under the 'Tenant Fees act.'

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Researching and visiting London neighbourhoods 🕵️

London is a city of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character and atmosphere. Before embarking on your flat hunt, thoroughly research different areas to find the ones that align with your lifestyle and preferences. Consider factors such as proximity to work, transportation links, local amenities, safety, and community vibe.

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Letting agents and landlords 🔑

Letting agents play a significant role in the London rental market. Many properties are managed by agents who handle viewings, applications, and lease agreements. Building a good rapport with letting agents and demonstrating your reliability as a tenant can enhance your chances of securing a desirable flat. Additionally, some properties are rented directly from landlords, requiring direct communication and negotiation.

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Viewings and decision-making 👀

Viewings are a crucial part of the flat hunting process. Attend scheduled viewings to assess the condition, size, layout, and suitability of the flat. Prepare a list of questions to ask during viewings to gather all necessary information. It's important to trust your instincts and carefully evaluate each property to make an informed decision.

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Fees and deposits 💰

Renting in London often requires upfront costs, including a security deposit and the first month's rent. Additionally, agency fees and referencing fees may apply, depending on whether you rent through a letting agent. It's important to budget for these expenses and have the necessary funds ready when securing a flat.

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Tenancy agreements and legalities ✍️

Once you find a suitable flat, you'll be required to sign a tenancy agreement. It's crucial to read the contract thoroughly, understanding the terms, rent amount, duration, notice period, and responsibilities. Seeking legal advice or consulting with a tenancy support service can provide clarity and ensure you are aware of your rights and obligations.

What can you do to prepare?

Even if you haven't made your move to London yet from abroad, there are things you can do to prepare.

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Register for flat hunting sites/apps 🧑‍💻

Utilise online platforms and websites dedicated to property rentals in London. Popular websites like Zoopla, Rightmove, and SpareRoom offer comprehensive listings with filters to refine your search based on your preferences. Create alerts for new listings, bookmark properties of interest, and stay updated with the latest listings to maximise your chances of finding suitable options.

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Understand the different flat types 🏘

You'll find a range of flat types in London, from house to apartments and everything in-between. By researching and understanding the different flat types, you can filter out flats that don't fit your needs in your search.

You can find out more about the different flat types you'll find in London in our article, Different flat types for renting in London.

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Draft a great profile letter about yourself 👋

Craft a compelling profile message about yourself, highlighting your strengths and suitability as a tenant. This can be a great opportunity to let housemates, letting agents landlords know more about you, your situation, and why you are the ideal tenant for their property. Remember to keep it concise, professional, and engaging because it’s another way you can stand out from the crowd.

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Research areas of London 🏙

London is a diverse city with various neighbourhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and lifestyle. Take the time to research different areas and consider factors like safety, proximity to your work, local facilities (eg. parks), and transportation links. This will help you identify neighbourhoods that align with your lifestyle and preferences, narrowing down your search to specific areas.

You can find out more about what each area of London is like in our article, Where to Live in London: A guide for new Londoners.

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Determine your budget 💰

Before you start looking for a rental property, it is important to determine your budget in order to avoid financial strain. According to a report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published in 2020, renters in London spent approximately 34% of their gross monthly income on rent. However, this figure varies depending on the area and type of property.

In addition to rent, you should also consider other expenses such as utilities, transportation, and groceries. It is important to factor in these expenses when calculating your budget to ensure that you can comfortably afford your rental property.

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Prepare the necessary documents 📑

Many landlords and letting agents require specific documentation as part of the application process. Prepare essential documents such as identification (passport, driver's license), proof of income (payslips, employment contract), bank statements, and references from previous landlords or employers. Having these documents readily available will streamline the application process and demonstrate your reliability as a tenant.