Landlords
Choosing an agent as a first-time landlord in Prestwich
For a first letting, a clear division of work matters more than a long list of package names. Ask an agent to explain the process, the costs and what you must still do yourself before agreeing the instruction.
Prepare a short property brief
Record the property address and type, when it may be available, whether it is furnished and which tasks you want handled. Ask the agent to explain the evidence behind its rental appraisal. Do not assume an online estimate establishes the rent a tenant will agree.
| Before signing | Ask for |
|---|---|
| Scope | A written list of included and excluded tasks |
| Costs | Setup, ongoing and conditional charges |
| Communication | Named contact, escalation and reporting process |
| Handover | Document access and end-of-instruction process |
Ask for a walkthrough of the tenancy
Request an explanation of marketing, viewings, applicant checks, agreements, move-in records, rent administration and repair reporting. Ask who makes decisions at each point and how you receive copies of the relevant records. Any compliance arrangements should be explained for your actual property, not assumed from a package title.
Understand approval and spending limits
Find out who contacts you, what response times are proposed and whether the agent can instruct contractors without further approval. Ask about urgent out-of-hours issues, inspections and account statements. Agree a practical process rather than relying on broad claims of full service.
Ask for two written cost views
Request the expected first-year charges and the ongoing charges for an established tenancy. Separate optional protection from the main package. Ask about minimum fees, VAT, end-of-tenancy work and any charge for ending or transferring the instruction.
Choose on clarity and fit
Use the same questions with your shortlist and compare the replies. A useful proposal explains inclusions, exclusions and responsibilities in language you understand. Our links identify starting points for contact; no provider is endorsed as the best choice for every new landlord.
Sources and scope
Provider publications are starting points, not quotes for your property. Group terms need branch confirmation. Missing fees are unknown, not zero.
- Aubrey Lee: landlord services and fees ↗Checked 2026-10-14 · Prestwich office page; published offer, not an independent audit
- Thornley Groves: Prestwich branch ↗Checked 2026-10-14 · Prestwich sales and lettings
- Hyde: services and Prestwich office ↗Checked 2026-10-14 · Published provider services
- Melissa Berry: services and areas ↗Checked 2026-10-14 · Published provider services