Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Tenant Questions

1) In which areas do you have properties?
2) What references do I require?
3) For how long does a tenancy agreement run?
4) How much is the deposit?
5) What bills will I have to pay?
6) What am I responsible for?
7) Do you abide by a recognized Code of Conduct?

Landlord Questions

1) How long have you been established?
2) In which areas do you manage properties?
3) How do you source tenants?
4) What are the legal requirements of letting properties?
5) Do you advise on buy-to-let?
6) Do you abide by a recognized Code of Conduct?

Tenant Answers

Q1) In which areas do you have properties?
A1) We have a large number of properties in and around Manchester ranging from exclusive City Centre Apartment to small residential townhouses in suburban areas.

Q2) What references do I require?
A2) References from your employer are required as is a reference from your previous landlord (if applicable). Credit checks are made where appropriate.

Q3) For how long does a tenancy agreement run?
A3) We use only Assured Shorthold Tenancies - usually for an initial 6 month period which then may be extended. Tenancies for shorter or longer periods are available by negotiation.

Q4) How much is the deposit?
A4) The deposit is usually the equivalent of one calendar month's rent plus one hundred pounds.

Q5) What bills will I have to pay?
A5) The rent quoted does not include utility bills or council tax. It does usually include any service charge payable on the property.

Q6) What am I responsible for?
A6) You are responsible for the general upkeep of the property and respect for the inventory of items you sign for at the commencement of your tenancy (where applicable). You are also responsible for utility bills and Council tax bills.

Q7) Do you abide by a recognized Code of Conduct?
A7) Most definitely. We have member firm status of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) and we are committed to providing a high standard of service to all our customers. As a residential lettings agent we also subscribe to an approved Client Money Protection Scheme. Membership of the NAEA demonstrates that we are operating within the guidelines and that customers can expect an honest, open and high standard of service. We are also members of The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) whose aim is to promote a nationally recognized level of service for professional residential lettings and management agents.

Landlord Answers

Q1) How long have you been established?
A1) The business was established in 1985 by Penny Ashton and it has grown with the Manchester rennaisance. When you deal with the company you deal with one of the owner/founders, Penny or Brian Ashton. Their property lettings and management experience provide the professionalism that you require.

Q2) In which areas do you manage properties?
A2) We have a managed portfolio of hundreds of properties focused in Manchester City Centre and the surrounding areas. We do however cover the entire North West region.

Q3) How do you source tenants?
A3) Through advertising, display signage and word-of-mouse. (the Web). We advertise regularly in the Manchester Evening News and other local papers. We also have established a relationship with many large organizations. All our 'To Let' signs carry our web address and telephone numbers. We maintain a database of customers and our existing tenants recommend us. All of this ensures a constant stream of enquiries.

Q4) What are the legal requirements of letting properties?
A4) There are many, from Gas Safety Certificates to Furnishing Regulations. We will advise on the Gas Safety regulations furniture regulations and safety requirements.

Q5) Do you advise on buy-to-let?
A5) Yes, typically, rental income should exceed monthly mortgage repayments by as much as 25% and you will also have to consider the payment of management fees, maintenance cost and capital gains tax. We can help you in terms of rental valuations, investment advice on potential and introduce you to an Independent Mortgage Advisor.

Q6) Do you abide by a recognized Code of Conduct?
A6) Most definitely. We have member firm status of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) and we are committed to providing a high standard of service to all our customers. As a residential lettings agent we also subscribe to an approved client Money Protection Scheme. Membership of the NAEA demonstrates that we are operating within the guidelines and that customers can expect an honest, open and high standard of service. We are also members of The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) whose aim is to promote a nationally recognized level of service for professional residential letting and management agents.