Paula Hodkinson-Smith on LinkedIn: Finding the perfect home can be challenging but the process shouldn't be… (2024)

Don't wait for online listings to find your dream rental property! The best lettings properties are in high demand and often get snapped up before they appear online. Many prime properties are rented out through direct inquiries or within a real estate agent's network, bypassing online portals entirely. By contacting letting agents (like us!) directly and registering your interest, you can access properties before they hit the internet. Waiting for online listings means you risk missing out as proactive renters have already secured them.Reach out at lettings@brighterlets.co.uk to register and learn about the latest trends and properties on the market.....#blackpool #normoss #newton #staining #southshore #northshore #greatmarton #mythop #bispham #poultonlefylde #fyldecoast

Moving can be a big step. Here’s 3 steps to ensure a smooth and easy move ⤵️➡️ Avoid peak moving times like weekends and bank holidays to save on costs and reduce stress. Mid-week moves often come with better availability and lower prices.➡️ Check parking restrictions and arrange necessary permits for your moving van, especially in areas with limited parking. Familiarise yourself with council guidelines in your new area.➡️ Update your address with the Royal Mail for mail forwarding, and inform utility providers, banks, and the DVLA of your move to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any disruptions in service.Reach out for personalised assistance at lettings@brighterlets.co.uk .

Worried about finding a pet-friendly rental? 🐶 We have a variety of lettings that welcome your furry friends. And if you're ever worried about a landlord being hesitant about allowing animals on their property, consider asking for a ‘pet reference’ from a previous landlord to confirm that your pet is well-behaved and didn’t cause problems at your former home. But don’t stress, we will make sure you get the proper pet-friendly home you're looking for!

🚪 Refreshing your home's internal doors, frames, and skirting boards is a highly effective way to rejuvenate your space.🎨 Over time, these areas can accumulate wear and tear, including scuffs, scratches, and discolouration. A fresh coat of paint instantly revitalises these surfaces, giving them a clean and well-maintained appearance.✔️ Opt for neutral tones like white, beige, or light grey. These colours appeal to a wide audience and contribute to a modern, cohesive aesthetic throughout your home.🔑 Ensure thorough cleaning to remove dust and grease. Smooth out rough patches by sanding and fill any holes or cracks with an appropriate filler.🖌️ Invest in high-quality paint for a smooth, durable finish. Semi-gloss or satin finishes are ideal for doors, frames, and baseboards as they are easy to clean and resist wear and tear.👀 Take your time during the painting process. Protect walls and floors with painter's tape and achieve even coverage with multiple thin coats rather than one thick layer.🚪 Painting internal doors, frames, and skirting boards is a cost-effective method to enhance your home's overall appearance. It adds a fresh, polished look that significantly impacts how potential buyers perceive the condition and care of your property.For a no-obligation chat about putting your home up for rent then contact us on:📞 Contact us: 01253 625745📧 Email us: lettings@brighterlets.co.uk

Cost-effective ways to add a touch of luxury to your home.💡 Enhance LightingUpgrade to elegant chandeliers and stylish lamps, for a sophisticated ambience.💎 Use Luxurious TextilesIncorporate velvet, silk, or high-thread-count linens in pillows, throws, and bedding for a plush feel.🪞 Strategically Place MirrorsUse mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space and grandeur.🖌️ Freshen Up with PaintApply a fresh coat of paint in neutral or rich tones to instantly elevate the room's appearance.🌟 Declutter and OrganiseMaintain a clean, clutter-free space with stylish storage solutions for a luxurious atmosphere.🍃 Add GreeneryBring life and elegance to your home with indoor plants or fresh flowers.🕯️ Choose Statement AccessoriesSelect statement pieces like vases, artwork, or decorative trays to add a touch of sophistication.🛋️ Layer RugsLayer rugs to add depth and texture, creating a luxurious feel on your floors.Where is the best place on the Fylde Coast to get those little extras to add a touch of luxury to your home?

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Disputes with landlords or neighbours can be stressful, but handling them effectively and legally can help resolve issues smoothly. Here’s how:🗣️🤝 Approach any dispute calmly and respectfully. Start by having a clear and polite conversation with the landlord or neighbour to address the issue directly. Often, misunderstandings can be resolved through open dialogue. 📜🖊️Keep detailed records of the dispute, including dates, times, and communications. This documentation can be crucial if the situation escalates or if you need to seek legal advice. 📑🔍Familiarise yourself with the terms of your tenancy agreement. Knowing your rights and responsibilities can help you understand the landlord's obligations and any specific procedures for resolving disputes. 📬 If direct communication doesn’t work, follow the official complaint procedures outlined in your lease or building rules. Document your complaint and any responses you receive. 🕊️ If direct negotiation fails, consider mediation. Many disputes can be resolved with the help of a neutral third party who can facilitate a fair resolution. ⚖️Understand your legal rights as a tenant. In the UK, tenants have protections under laws like the Housing Act 1988. Knowing these rights can help you navigate disputes effectively. 🏢📞 If the dispute remains unresolved, consider seeking advice from professional organisations, such as Citizens Advice or a legal advisor specialising in these types of issues. 🛠️📅For disputes related to maintenance, keep records of all repair requests and communications with your landlord. This can support your case if the issue is not addressed in a timely manner. By following these steps, you can handle disputes in a way that is fair, effective, and within your legal rights. If you need further assistance or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help! 💬📲📞 Contact us: 01253 625745📧 Email us: lettings@brighterlets.co.uk

Starting your renting journey can be exciting, but it’s important to be well-prepared. Here are some essential tips to help you find the perfect property and make your move-in smooth:📝🏠 Make a list of must-haves (e.g., number of bedrooms, location, amenities) and nice-to-haves (e.g., garden, parking). Prioritise your needs to help narrow down your options. 👀🔍Before signing anything, visit the property to check for any issues or necessary repairs. Look for signs of dampness, mould, or faulty appliances. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the property’s condition. 🏘️📑Read your lease agreement carefully. Pay attention to:🔸Lease Term: How long is the lease? Are there penalties for breaking it early?🔸Rent and Deposits: What is the rent amount and due date? How much is the deposit, and what conditions apply to its return?🔸Maintenance Responsibilities: Clarify who is responsible for repairs and maintenance. ⚖️📚Know Your Rights and Responsibilities: Familiarise yourself with tenant rights and responsibilities. Knowing your legal standing can help you handle disputes and ensure you’re meeting your obligations. 📸📝Document the Condition: Take photos or videos of the property’s condition before moving in. This will help protect you from potential disputes over damages when you move out.💡🔌Set Up Utilities: Arrange for utilities like electricity, gas, and water before you move in. Make sure you know how to transfer or set up accounts in your name. 📬🔄Change of Address: Notify important contacts and institutions of your new address. This includes banks, employers, and subscription services. 📦🗂️Pack Smart: Organise your packing to make unpacking easier. Label boxes by room and prioritise essentials to have on hand when you first move in. 🛡️💼Get Contents Insurance: Consider getting contents insurance to protect your belongings and cover any potential liabilities. It’s a small cost for peace of mind. 🗺️🏪Explore Your Neighbourhood: Familiarise yourself with your new area. Locate nearby grocery stores, transport links, and any other amenities you’ll need. Starting your renting journey on the right foot can make all the difference. If you have any questions or need help finding your new home, reach out — Get in touch! 💬🏡📞 Contact us: 01253 625745.📧 Email us: lettings@brighterlets.co.uk .

Navigating a rental agreement can be overwhelming.Here’s a quick breakdown of common terms and clauses to help you make sense of your lease:📅 Lease TermThis specifies the duration of your lease, typically in months or years. Make sure you’re clear on the start and end dates, and understand the conditions for renewing or terminating the lease early.💵Rent and Payment ScheduleThis section outlines the amount of rent, when it's due, and how it should be paid (e.g., monthly via bank transfer). Be aware of any late fees or penalties for missed payments.💰DepositThe deposit is usually collected to cover potential damages or unpaid rent. Check the amount, conditions for its return, and any deductions that could be made when you move out. Brighter Lets’s top tip: be sure to ask how and where the deposit will be kept safe. Reputable agents and landlords will know there are specific government schemes in place. If they can’t answer you, it’s a big red flag 🚩🚩🚩 🔧Maintenance and RepairsThis clause details who is responsible for maintaining and repairing the property. Understand your obligations and know what the landlord is responsible for fixing.💡UtilitiesFind out if utilities (e.g., gas, electricity, water) are included in your rent and which you’ll need to pay separately. Ensure you understand how utility costs are managed.🏠Use of PropertyThis outlines what you can and can’t do on the property, including rules about subletting, pets, and making alterations. Follow these rules to avoid any disputes.🚪Entry and InspectionsLandlords typically need to give notice before entering the property for inspections or repairs. Check the notice period required and any conditions under which entry is permitted.✉️Termination ClauseThis section explains the process for ending the lease, including notice periods and any penalties for breaking the lease early. Make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities if you need to move out before the lease ends.🔐Security MeasuresReview any clauses related to the security of the property, including the use of locks, alarms, and other safety features. Ensure the property is secure and that you know how to operate any security systems.🕊️ Dispute ResolutionKnow the process for resolving disputes between you and the landlord. This could involve mediation or legal action if necessary.If you have questions about your rental agreement or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out.📞 Contact us: 01253 625745.📧 Email us: lettings@brighterlets.co.uk .

🏡 If you're renting your home, it's crucial to know your role in keeping your home pest-free. 1️⃣ Keeping your home clean and tidy is crucial in preventing pests. 🧹 Regularly clean floors, countertops, and other surfaces to remove crumbs and spills that might attract pests. 🥡 Ensure food is stored in sealed containers, and do not leave pet food out overnight.2️⃣ Dispose of rubbish regularly and use bins with tight-fitting lids. 🐭 This prevents pests like rodents and insects from accessing food waste. 🗑 Also, ensure that outside bins are not placed too close to the building and are well-sealed.3️⃣ Inspect your home for any gaps, cracks, or holes in walls, windows, and doors. 🐜 Seal these entry points with caulk or other appropriate materials to prevent pests from entering. 🔧 Pay special attention to areas around pipes, vents, and utility lines.4️⃣ Pests, particularly insects, are attracted to moisture. 💦 Repair any leaks in plumbing and fix dripping taps. 🛁 Use dehumidifiers in damp areas and ensure good ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce humidity levels.5️⃣ If you have a garden or outdoor area, keep it well-maintained. 🌿 Trim back any plants or shrubs that are too close to the house, as these can provide pathways for pests. 🪰 Avoid leaving standing water, as it can attract mosquitoes and other insects.If you're renting your home, it's important to promptly report any signs of pests to your landlord or property management. In many cases, they are responsible for addressing infestations, especially if the problem is due to structural issues or external factors beyond your control.🌟If you're renting through Brighter Lets, rest assured that we’re committed to maintaining a healthy and habitable living environment for you! 🛠️🌿📞 Contact us: 01253 625745.📧 Email us: lettings@brighterlets.co.uk .