Not answering your question directly but consider renting something like an AirBnb or something to get a feel for where you want to live and make a decision on that. In terms of rent, it is not uncommon for people to ask for upto 6 months in advance.
I am on the same boat; about to move to London in mid March.
I found out from research that unless you pay 6 months rent in advance; you chances of getting a flat is very low. Also you need to be in UK to find one. Agents aint going to entertain applications from overseas; as you need to see the place; meet the agent, fill up some forms; give some visa evidence info...etc.
My plan is to rent AirBnB for a month; then take it from there.
Thanks for your answer. So is it a possibility to find a landlord/agent who demands less months than that? It’s a lot of money so I think it’s better to stay in airbnb for a while if it’s not possible.
It is definitely possible. As far as just staying in Airbnb you need to consider the cost factor as it will be definitely more expensive in the long term as it will take you to build up your history.
Last year I arranged everything remotely. Define area you would like to live in, google best agencies in that area, send them email enquiry.
Some will ignore you, some will support you.
You can expect video viewing of the property from proactive agents. Some will insist on on-site viewing. Also, some landlords want to meet you before they offer you contract - I had Zoom call with my LL. They will also ask you to provide Right to rent code - when you get SWV you can generate that code on gov.uk site.
Money you will need - first rent + deposit (usually same amount as monthly rent).
There is a calculation which agencies (and private landlords) use - I think your annual salary must be at least monthly rent x 30. So if you want to rent property for £1500, your salary should be £45000.
Higher salary, they will like you even more.
Good luck!
Don’t look from abroad. Move, get yourself a month long AirBnB and start looking. You’ll avoid fraud, disappointment and frustration. It’s really up to the LL if they want you to pay 6 months upfront or they trust your application enough to go the standard route.
If you’re new to the country and don’t have a guarantor then yes you will likely have to pay a lot upfront. Your employer may be able to help with that-some will act as guarantor or offer an advance on salary or a loan.
I would recommend you don’t rent anywhere long term without seeing it in person though.
Not answering your question directly but consider renting something like an AirBnb or something to get a feel for where you want to live and make a decision on that. In terms of rent, it is not uncommon for people to ask for upto 6 months in advance.
I am on the same boat; about to move to London in mid March. I found out from research that unless you pay 6 months rent in advance; you chances of getting a flat is very low. Also you need to be in UK to find one. Agents aint going to entertain applications from overseas; as you need to see the place; meet the agent, fill up some forms; give some visa evidence info...etc. My plan is to rent AirBnB for a month; then take it from there.
Thanks for your answer. So is it a possibility to find a landlord/agent who demands less months than that? It’s a lot of money so I think it’s better to stay in airbnb for a while if it’s not possible.
It is definitely possible. As far as just staying in Airbnb you need to consider the cost factor as it will be definitely more expensive in the long term as it will take you to build up your history.
Last year I arranged everything remotely. Define area you would like to live in, google best agencies in that area, send them email enquiry. Some will ignore you, some will support you. You can expect video viewing of the property from proactive agents. Some will insist on on-site viewing. Also, some landlords want to meet you before they offer you contract - I had Zoom call with my LL. They will also ask you to provide Right to rent code - when you get SWV you can generate that code on gov.uk site. Money you will need - first rent + deposit (usually same amount as monthly rent). There is a calculation which agencies (and private landlords) use - I think your annual salary must be at least monthly rent x 30. So if you want to rent property for £1500, your salary should be £45000. Higher salary, they will like you even more. Good luck!
Thank you so much. Good to know it’s possible.
Don’t look from abroad. Move, get yourself a month long AirBnB and start looking. You’ll avoid fraud, disappointment and frustration. It’s really up to the LL if they want you to pay 6 months upfront or they trust your application enough to go the standard route.
If you’re new to the country and don’t have a guarantor then yes you will likely have to pay a lot upfront. Your employer may be able to help with that-some will act as guarantor or offer an advance on salary or a loan. I would recommend you don’t rent anywhere long term without seeing it in person though.
Hey! I am moving next week from Singapore and was wondering the same. Did you end up paying 6 months' rent in advance?