Begin by contacting Keystones Properties and registering your details. You can do this through our website, by email, or in person at our office. Provide your preferred move-in date, location, number of bedrooms, and budget. We’ll then match you with available properties that meet your criteria. Ensure you remain contactable, as popular homes can be let very quickly.
Once registered, we’ll send you property options and arrange viewings. Take time to consider what’s important such as location, travel connections, and budget. Be realistic about your financial limits and consider additional costs such as utilities, council tax, and internet. We recommend preparing a list of essentials and deal-breakers to help narrow your search efficiently.
Attend property viewings promptly, as availability can change daily. We encourage you to view multiple options before making your decision. During viewings, ask about the tenancy term, furnishings, bills, and any maintenance responsibilities. Once you’ve found the right property, inform us immediately so we can begin the application process.
To secure your chosen property, you’ll need to pay a holding deposit (equivalent to one week’s rent). This ensures the property is reserved for you while referencing checks are carried out. Once your offer is accepted, this amount will be deducted from your first month’s rent or deposit. If you withdraw, the holding deposit may be forfeited; if the landlord declines your application, it will be refunded.
After paying the holding deposit, we’ll begin the tenant referencing process. This includes verifying your identity, employment, income, credit history, and Right to Rent in the UK. You’ll be required to provide photo ID, recent payslips, proof of address, and contact details for your employer or previous landlord. Accuracy and promptness in providing documents help avoid delays.
If your income does not meet affordability criteria or you have limited credit history, a guarantor may be required. The guarantor must be in full-time employment or a homeowner with a clean credit record and income at least three times the monthly rent. They will sign a legal agreement accepting financial responsibility should you fail to meet your rental obligations.
Once references are approved, we’ll issue your Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement. This legal contract outlines the rights and obligations of both tenant and landlord. You’ll be given a draft to review before signing. Please read it carefully and seek clarification if anything is unclear. Once signed by both parties, it becomes legally binding.
Before moving in, you’ll need to pay the first month’s rent and security deposit (usually equivalent to 1 months rent). Your deposit will be registered in a Government-approved Tenancy Deposit Protection scheme within 30 days, and you’ll receive confirmation and prescribed information as required by law.
An inventory will be prepared detailing the property’s condition and contents at the start of your tenancy. You’ll be asked to review and sign it to confirm accuracy. We’ll then hand over the keys and provide you with any safety certificates and contact details for maintenance reporting. This ensures a smooth and transparent check-in process.
Throughout your tenancy, Keystones Properties will be your main point of contact for repairs, rent queries, and inspections. Should you wish to end your tenancy, you must give written notice in accordance with your agreement (usually one or two months). At the end of the tenancy, a check-out inspection will take place, and your deposit will be returned within 10 days (subject to any agreed deductions).
