Guide to Renting
Your Clear, Calm Path to Finding and Securing Your New HomeRenting should be exciting, not stressful. We’re here to guide you through every step – from setting your budget to signing the tenancy and getting your keys. Our goal? To give you confidence and clarity as you start your rental journey.
Making Your Move Simple and Stress-Free
Renting a new home is an exciting time, but the process can sometimes feel overwhelming. This guide is designed to walk you through each stage, step-by-step, so you know exactly what to expect. We believe in making the rental process as transparent and straightforward as possible, empowering you to move forward with confidence.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Renting
1. Setting Your Budget & Starting Your Search
Before you start looking, it’s vital to establish your budget. As a general rule, your annual rent should not exceed 40% of your gross annual income. Once you have your budget, create a list of your ‘must-haves’ and ‘nice-to-haves’ to refine your property search.
2. Attending Property Viewings
This is your chance to get a real feel for the property and the local area. We recommend viewing a few different properties to compare. Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the viewing – we’re here to help you get all the information you need to make the right decision.
3. Making an Offer
Once you’ve found the perfect property, the next step is to make an offer. We will present your offer to the landlord. If it is accepted, you will be asked to pay a refundable Holding Deposit (capped at one week’s rent) to reserve the property while we conduct referencing.
4. The Tenant Referencing Process
Referencing is a standard part of the process to confirm you are a suitable tenant. This will typically include a credit check, an employment reference to confirm your income, and a reference from your previous landlord. Being prepared with the necessary information will help this stage run smoothly.
5. Signing the Tenancy Agreement
The Tenancy Agreement is the legal contract between you and the landlord. It’s crucial to read it thoroughly before signing. Once all parties have signed, you will pay your first month’s rent and your Tenancy Deposit (usually five weeks’ rent).
6. Move-In Day!
On the day your tenancy begins, we will provide you with the keys and a copy of the property’s inventory report. You should check this against the property’s condition and sign it. Congratulations, you can now move into your new home!
Find Your Perfect Place to Live
Choosing the right location is just as important as choosing the right property. Our detailed area guides provide an insider’s look into the neighbourhoods we serve, covering everything from local transport links and schools to the best parks and coffee shops.
The Village
Living in The Gay Village, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Welcome to The Gay Village, Manchester - a vibrant, inclusive neighbourhood centred around the famous Canal Street. Known for its rich LGBTQ+ history, buzzing nightlife, and prime...
The Green Quarter
Living in The Green Quarter, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors If you want city-centre living without feeling like you’re boxed in by concrete, The Green Quarter might just be your perfect match. This modern neighbourhood on the...
Southern Gateway
Living in Southern Gateway, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Southern Gateway is one of Manchester city centre’s most exciting regeneration zones — and it’s still evolving. Situated between Deansgate, Oxford Road, and the vibrant...
Salford Quays
Living in Salford Quays, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Once an industrial dockland, Salford Quays has transformed into one of Greater Manchester’s most dynamic waterfront neighbourhoods. Just a 15-minute tram ride from the city...
Salford
Living in Salford – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Salford has undergone one of the most exciting urban transformations in the North West. Once an industrial powerhouse, it’s now a vibrant mix of riverside living, modern apartment blocks, historic...
Piccadilly
Living in Piccadilly, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Piccadilly sits at the heart of Manchester’s city centre - a fast-paced, vibrant hub that blends modern high-rises, historic architecture, and a buzzing social scene. Known as the city’s...
Openshaw Beswick
Living in Openshaw & Beswick, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Tucked just east of Manchester city centre, Openshaw and Beswick are two neighbourhoods that have seen a quiet but impressive transformation over the last decade....
Old Trafford
Living in Old Trafford, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors When most people hear Old Trafford, they instantly think Manchester United. But this neighbourhood is so much more than just football. Located just south-west of the city...
Northern Quarter
Living in the Northern Quarter, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors The Northern Quarter is Manchester’s creative playground - a vibrant mix of street art, independent bars, quirky cafés, record stores, and boutique apartments. It’s where...
New Islington
Living in New Islington, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Once an industrial hub on the fringe of the city centre, New Islington has undergone one of the most impressive regeneration projects in the UK. What was once a pocket of...
Ludgate Hill
Living in Ludgate Hill, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Ludgate Hill is a small but sought-after pocket of Manchester that combines the buzz of city living with the charm of a quieter, more residential feel. Just a short walk from...
Hulme
Living in Hulme, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Hulme is one of Manchester’s most talked-about comeback stories. Once known for its gritty post-industrial past, Hulme has undergone major regeneration, transforming into a thriving, diverse...
Central
Living in Central Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Central Manchester is where the city’s energy beats loudest. From the glittering towers of Deansgate to the quirky creativity of the Northern Quarter, every corner offers...
Castlefield
Living in Castlefield, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Castlefield is Manchester’s historic heart with a modern twist — a place where cobbled streets meet gleaming glass apartments, and leafy canal paths wind past lively bars and heritage...
Ancoats
Living in Ancoats, Manchester – Area Guide for Renters, Buyers & Investors Once the beating heart of Manchester’s industrial revolution, Ancoats has transformed into one of the UK’s most desirable urban neighbourhoods — regularly topping “coolest places...
Making renting simple.
Ready to Find Your New Home?
Now that you know the process, the exciting part can begin. Start your search today by Browse our available properties or register your details with our friendly lettings team.