landlord

This April (2022) sees us celebrate the 30th anniversary of Richard James, after opening our doors in Wroughton back in 1992. Since then, we’ve been fortunate enough to help clients of multiple generations find their dream homes and have expanded across 8 offices that cover Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire. As well as Sales, we are also home to Richard James Lettings, Land & New Homes,...

Landlords should be aware that they could be liable for any unpaid utility bills, and even reconnection fees if they don’t correctly manage the end of tenancy process with regards to utilities. We've put together a ‘best practice' guide regarding tenants’ utility services to help you have a successful tenancy, without facing any unexpected fees.  Who is responsible...

Whether you’ve deliberately made the decision to invest in a buy-to-let property or you’re one of the country’s rising number of ‘accidental landlords’ and you’ve found yourself in a position where, for whatever reason, you need to rent out a home, you must understand your responsibilities before you welcome your first tenants. There are a lot of rules in place that apply to landlords and...

When your tenants cannot or will not pay, you will be protected, not only from rent arrears but also from tenancy breach - Good news, hey? So, what does your rental protection guarantee cover*? full rent protection for the total monthly rent, for up to four tenants, as named on the tenancy agreement.Missed rental payments until vacant possession of the property or for up...

Are you a first-time landlord, considering the benefits of using a letting agent to manage your property?Perhaps you're an experienced landlord, who's tired of being at your tenants' beck and call. Not to mention having the time and experience to keep up (and comply with) over 170 government regulations!Let's break down the top 10 benefits of a fully managed service, and how it could help you... 1....

Within the last 12 months*, the average price of a home to buy in Swindon has risen to £254,003, which is over 9 times the average salary earnings in Wiltshire (estimated at £27,000*). This means the rental market in Swindon is on the rise, as more and more people earning average salaries simply cannot afford to save the deposit sums required. We've all seen the increasing reports in the media of...

Being a landlord is not as simple as it used to be, there are many legal obligations and responsibilities – and good tenants look for good landlords who follow the rules willingly. The rules that are in place, are there for good reason and help to keep tenants and landlords safe, so being a good landlord is well worth the price and effort involved. Which is why your lettings agent is there to help and it...

Imagine this situation: your beloved home has been in the family for decades, it's part of your history and has been handed down through many generations. However, it’s now empty as you’ve got somewhere else to live, yet you don’t need to sell your family home and you’re stuck in a quandary. It is mortgage-free but could do with some work to modernise it.  Do you sell your family home and...