Finding a property from overseas is not easy full stop. As with many things in the UK, we like to make it that little bit harder.
For example, here in the UK, you cannot fly with your small pet in the cabin. That is why many pet owners, fly via Paris, and then get picked up and are driven the rest of the way through the tunnel to the UK.
With finding properties, regardless of being pet friendly or not, some estate agents and landlords, prefer the prospective tenant(s) or a representative to see the place in person.
During covid times, many properties would go within a few hours with on-line viewings. This is now more ‘frowned upon’, as landlords are worried, someone may walk through the door and not like the place or complain more, if they have not seen it properly.
Solutions for finding a pet friendly rental
Without sounding biased, that is exactly what I do at Pets Lets Relocation . Feel free to book a no obligation call
The downside is that short lets are very expensive. It may be the case you spend more that you would have hiring a consultant. Something you have to bear in mind.
A risky strategy as you could sign a legally binding rental contract for a non-suitable property. I come across people who have moved into what they think is a pet friendly property, only to be told it is not, despite what the agent said.
If you can’t insert a pets clause into your rental agreement, don’t sign. Have a look at lets with pets which is a good source of advice for renting with pets.
Budget dictates location(s)
When looking for a UK rental where do you start? Do you have friends in the UK, where do they live? Place of work, where will that be, or will you be flexi-working?
Top property tip; start with a realistic budget. Then look at the areas you like in an around London or the UK. Can you afford to be in these neighbourhoods and get the kind of property you would like?
If the answer is yes, then use that information to focus on those more affordable areas that work for you. Get to know the local agents so they call you as soon as something suitable comes on.
Estate agents quickly for get you. You have to constantly remind them if you want to be top of the list.
Rightmove is the number 1 UK property portal. Start here to give you an idea, what you can afford as a property and where.
Affordability is key. As a rule of thumb, your salary should be 2.5 times your annual salary. So if your rent is £2,000pcm (per calendar month), and agent would be looking for a salary of £60,000pa plus.
I hope this information is helpful. If you’re relocating to the UK with your pets, feel free to join our informative Facebook group, “Relocating to the UK with your Pets”, for more guidance and support.
Russell Hunt is the founder of Petslets.com, a UK-based pet-friendly property portal, as well as Petsletsrelocation.com, where he serves as a pet-friendly UK property specialist. He advises clients on renting and buying properties in and around London.
Finding a property from overseas is not easy full stop. As with many things in the UK, we like to make it that little bit harder. For example, here in the UK, you cannot fly with your small pet in the cabin. That is why many pet owners, fly via Paris, and then get picked …
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