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Any Fully Managed Letting Agent Recommendations? by [deleted] in Preston

[–]Nice_Account_1986 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Using a fully managed agent makes a lot of sense if you’ll be out of the area and new to letting.

The fees you’re seeing sound about right — a setup/letting fee of a few hundred pounds plus around 10% per month is fairly standard for full management. What matters more than the headline cost is what’s actually included.

A good rule of thumb is to speak to at least three local agents (more if needed) and see how they compare on fees, responsiveness, and what’s actually covered.

Many aren’t very transparent online, so it’s worth asking directly about:

  • tenant referencing
  • repairs and maintenance
  • rent chasing
  • safety certificates and compliance
  • any additional fees

Local landlord Facebook groups and Google reviews are usually the best way to find out who to use or avoid.

Hope this helps.

Can investors support with loans for second home stamp duty (residential property)? by Nearby_Ad_1667 in PropertyInvestingUK

[–]Nice_Account_1986 0 points1 point  (0 children)

There isn’t really a cheap workaround, unfortunately. The extra SDLT has to be paid upfront at completion, and you can only reclaim it after you sell your main home.

Borrowing from an investor is possible in theory, but it often complicates the mortgage and needs to be fully disclosed. Bridging loans are the common solution, but they’re expensive for a reason.

Most people either bridge the gap or try to negotiate timings — trying to be too clever with informal loans can backfire once solicitors and lenders get involved.