Welcome to your monthly property update!

Welcome to your monthly property update!




Seaton Grove, Durham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this outstanding three bedroom semi-detached...
 

£895 PCM


Click here to read Seaton Grove, Durham, SR7.



Castlereagh Road, Seaham, SR7

This architect designed four bedroom home occupies a large end of row plot. Recently refurbished and modernised, this home has the wow factor! Internally the...
 

£2,000 PCM


Click here to read Castlereagh Road, Seaham, SR7.



The Village, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this ready to move into farmhouse style property in the highly regarded and sought after residential area of Seaton, Seaham. 
 

£925 PCM


Click here to read The Village, Seaham, SR7.



Byron Terrace,Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this immaculate and ready to move into 3 bedroom terraced...
 
£695 PCM

Click here to read Byron Terrace,Seaham, SR7.



Embleton Mews, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are now taking details of people who would like to view this refurbished, 3 bedroom...
 
£625 PCM

Click here to read Embleton Mews, Seaham, SR7.



Station Road, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings present this 3 bedroom end terrace property in the ever popular town of Seaham. The property is currently being...
 
£695pcm

Click here to read Station Road, Seaham, SR7.



Swallow Street, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this 3 bedroom terraced property in the ever popular town of Seaham. Available on...
 
£675pcm

Click here to read Swallow Street, Seaham, SR7.



North Road East, Durham, TS28

Kimmitt Lettings have pleasure in offering for let this truly imposing four bedroomed detached, traditional family home situated in the heart...
 
£1,200 PCM

Click here to read North Road East, Durham, TS28.



Oliver Street, Seaham, County Durham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this immaculate and ready to move into 3 bedroom end terrace property in the ever popular town...
 
£625 PCM

Click here to read Oliver Street, Seaham, County Durham, SR7 .



Derwent Close, Seaham

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this IMMACULATE 3 bedroom home in the ever...
 
£750 PCM

Click here to read Derwent Close, Seaham.



Live at the Oddfellows Arms, SeahamSaturday March 9th 2024 at 09:00 pm

The Oddfellows Arms, 52 Church Street,Seaham, United Kingdom

Click here to read Live at the Oddfellows Arms, SeahamSaturday March 9th 2024 at 09:00 pm.



Musical Mayhem | Monday, 18th November 2024

Musical Mayhem is a monthly Monday morning one hour long session for families with pre-school or home schooled children to enjoy.


Click here to read Musical Mayhem | Monday, 18th November 2024.



What’s on the horizon for landlords and tenants in 2025?


As we look forward to the year 2025, the landscape for landlords and tenants is set to evolve in several intriguing ways. From regulatory changes to emerging trends in property management, here's a glimpse into what both parties can expect in the near future.

Evolving regulations

Regulatory frameworks governing the rental sector are expected to undergo significant updates by 2025. With a growing emphasis on tenant rights and sustainable housing practices, landlords will likely face stricter compliance requirements. This could include enhanced energy efficiency standards, more robust tenant protections, and possibly even rent control measures in certain regions.

Technology integration

The role of technology in property management is poised to expand further. Landlords may increasingly adopt smart home technologies, such as remote access systems and energy-efficient appliances, to attract tech-savvy tenants. Digital platforms for rental agreements and rent payments are also likely to become more commonplace, streamlining administrative tasks for both landlords and tenants.

Sustainability initiatives

Environmental sustainability is becoming a key consideration in the rental market. By 2025, tenants may expect eco-friendly features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and green building certifications. Landlords who invest in sustainable upgrades not only contribute to environmental goals but also appeal to environmentally conscious tenants.

Changing tenant preferences

The preferences of tenants are evolving, driven by demographic shifts and changing lifestyles. Young professionals and families may prioritise properties with flexible work-from-home spaces or proximity to green spaces. Additionally, there's a growing demand for rental properties that offer community amenities such as gyms, co-working spaces, and communal gardens.

Financial considerations

Economic factors will continue to influence the rental market in 2025. Landlords may need to navigate fluctuating property values and mortgage rates, impacting rental pricing strategies. Tenants, on the other hand, may seek more affordable housing options amidst economic uncertainties, potentially leading to a rise in demand for rental properties in suburban areas.

Legal protections and dispute resolution

As the rental market evolves, so too will legal protections for both landlords and tenants. Clearer guidelines on eviction processes, deposit protections, and dispute resolution mechanisms are expected to provide greater clarity and fairness. This could foster better landlord-tenant relationships and reduce litigation over rental issues.

Looking ahead

While challenges and opportunities lie ahead for landlords and tenants in 2025, proactive adaptation to regulatory changes and market trends will be crucial. Whether you're a landlord aiming to enhance property value or a tenant seeking a rental home that aligns with your lifestyle, speak to an expert letting agent for expert advice on upcoming changes in your local area.

 

Contact our expert lettings team today



Things to look for when viewing a property


Choosing your next property is a big decision, and you will have many questions during a viewing. These questions could be the answer to finding the right rental property, and they will help guide you during your search.

Do you like the location? 

Location is key when you are searching for your next home. Practical considerations such as your proximity to work, transport links, or excellent social amenities will help inform your decisions. But it’s also vital to ask yourself: What do you want from your next home's location? Is it important to be close to the countryside and vibrant towns and cities?

Is the kitchen in good order?

There's nothing wrong with running a tap to check the water pressure. How energy efficient are the appliances, and are they in good working order? Take a look at the cupboard spaces, as well as the condition of the walls. Check what is included as you would in any other room of the house.

Are the bedrooms right for your needs?

Are the bedrooms spacious enough for your needs? Is there scope to decorate? It’s important to define the boundaries here. If beds are included, you might want to inspect them thoroughly. It's also worth checking windows for drafts and areas around curtains for telltale signs of poor ventilation.

What should you look out for in the bathroom?

The bathroom's general cleanliness, from grouting between the tiles to the condition of the ceiling, is critical. Look carefully for evidence of mould. Extractor fans can be essential to keeping bathrooms in tip-top shape and can sometimes hide evidence of poor ventilation. That said, tenants should also play their part by opening windows regularly.

What does the property's exterior look like?

Whether you are renting a city apartment or a property in the suburbs, don’t neglect to take a thorough look around outside. Small and large outdoor spaces are equally important considerations. Do you have the time to maintain a large garden, or will it be maintained for you? Perhaps a characterful yet compact outdoor space that is perfect for winding down after a long day is exactly what you're looking for.

Final thoughts 

Take full advantage of your agent’s knowledge and expertise; that’s what they’re there for. Some properties benefit from round-the-clock maintenance support. Even without this in place, you will benefit from expert guidance when renting through a reputable agent. Renting this way will allow you to feel at ease and provide you with all the right information you need to make a confident choice.

 

Ready to take your next step? Book a viewing of your favourite properties today



10 ways to become a more successful landlord


Investing in buy-to-let is an exciting endeavour, but like any financial path, success isn’t guaranteed without hard work and dedication. 

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the secrets of how to be a successful landlord and see what separates the high-flying landlords from the rest.

1 - Always staying up to date about the market

If you’re a landlord and you’re not completing thorough research about the rental market, then you could be stumping your chances of any growth. The UK rental market is forever changing with regulations, prices, and demand. By keeping yourself in the loop, you can adapt your goals and strategies to current market trends, allowing you to thrive.

2 - Secure the right financing 

A key factor in becoming a successful landlord is securing the right financing. Explore different mortgage options and understand which one will work with you. Mortgage options vary with interest rates, deposits, fees, requirements, and terms, so finding the right one for you is crucial.

3 - Always know your figures

Running a successful business relies on you understanding your figures and making sure your finances are in order. This means understanding each property's outgoings from operational costs and repairs and the monthly rental income. If you haven’t got a clear understanding of your expenses and return on investment, then you can’t calculate your profitability as a landlord.

4 - Have a property plan

Having a plan and knowing what you’re wanting out of being a landlord is a vital part of success.  Plan your target market and location by identifying an area with high demand and a promising future outlook. This will help you understand what type of properties are right for you and your future tenants to invest in, minimising void periods and maximising rental yields.

5 - Understand the appeal of your demographic

When you’re trying to become successful, you need to tailor your business strategy to what your demographic wants, ensuring you maximise your return on investment and avoid void periods. Certain features, such as open outdoor space, multiple bathrooms, neutral décor, or offering a fully furnished property, will appeal to many potential tenants. So, complete research and understand what your demographic wants in a home.

6 - Have an extensive tenant screening process

Problem tenants are the worst for landlords, wasting time and money. The extensive screening process can be achieved through credit checks, employment checks, and past references, ensuring you are protecting you and your property from any problem tenants.

7 - Having good tenant-landlord relationships

Successful landlords understand the importance of customer satisfaction as it boosts long-term tenancies and positive reviews. By always treating your tenants with respect, being transparent, and addressing their problems in the property, you will ensure a harmonious tenant-landlord relationship. By following this, you are sure to maximise your return on investment and dodge void periods in your properties.

8 - Be organised

Being a successful landlord comes with juggling many responsibilities, so by maintaining an organised schedule, you are sure to have a smooth, efficient, and successful business. These responsibilities can vary from regular property management and maintenance to staying on top of legalities, keeping track of transactions, contracts, and communication between you and tenants.

9 – Expand your portfolio gradually

It’s a good idea to re-invest the profits you make on your first investment into expanding your portfolio. With the right advice from the necessary professionals, you can increase your cash flow and make the most out of owning several properties and receiving multiple sources of income.

10 – Employing a reputable letting agent

Working with a professional letting agent can make your journey as a landlord a lot more efficient. Many letting agents provide a property management service. They can help find you suitable tenants, ensure you’re meeting legalities, deal with disputes, maintain organisation, and collect rent. Don’t limit the growth of your business and enlist the support of a letting agent.

 

Are you ready to start your landlord success journey? Contact us today for more information



How to find a tenant before December hits


As autumn sets in and the end of the year approaches, landlords across the UK are gearing up to fill their rental properties before the holiday season arrives. Finding a tenant before December can present some unique challenges, so here’s a comprehensive guide to help you secure a tenant quickly and efficiently.

Prepare your property

First impressions count, so make sure your property is in top condition to attract potential tenants. Spend some time on necessary repairs, touch-ups, and deep cleaning. Additionally, you could consider enhancing kerb appeal with some eye-catching seasonal decorations or a welcoming wreath on the front door.

Set an attractive rent

An agent can help you set an attractive rent by researching current market rates in your area to establish a competitive rental price. While maximising profit is important, pricing too high can deter potential tenants. Be realistic and consider offering incentives such as utilities included or a reduced first month's rent to attract quality applicants.

Utilise online listings

A letting agent can utilise their online presence and take advantage of various online platforms to advertise your property. They will use high-quality photos and detailed descriptions to grab the attention of their network of potential tenants. 

Screen applicants thoroughly

Once inquiries start coming in, applicants should be screened rigorously. A letting agent can handle the process for you by requesting references from previous landlords and conducting employment verification and credit checks. This ensures that potential tenants meet your criteria for reliability and financial stability.

Offer flexible terms

Consider offering flexible agreement terms to attract a wider range of tenants. Short-term tenancy agreements or month-to-month options can appeal to tenants seeking temporary accommodation or unsure of their long-term plans.

Provide excellent customer service

Respond promptly to inquiries and maintain clear communication throughout the application process. A positive landlord-tenant relationship often begins with a smooth and professional interaction. Opting for a fully managed package means your tenants are taken care of by professionals from the offset, which can be an invaluable service if you operate on a busy schedule.

Stay informed about legal requirements

Ensure you comply with all legal requirements and regulations regarding rental properties in your area. Stay updated on tenant rights, eviction procedures, and safety standards to avoid potential legal issues.

Enlist the help of a letting agent

If managing the rental process becomes overwhelming, consider hiring a letting agent to help you with all aspects of property management. They can handle marketing, tenant screening, tenancy agreements, and ongoing management tasks on your behalf.

 

Need help managing your investment? Get in touch with our dedicated team today