Landlord Tips

Frequently Asked Questions by Landlords

How quickly can you find a tenant for my property?

Once an authority is signed with our company, we commence marketing your property straight away. Prospective tenants that we have on our database are contacted and advised of your property and it is automatically placed on our web site, counter list at each office and a For Lease Sign is erected. It is important that your property is presented in the best possible condition and at a market rent. This should ensure that the property is leased within a short period of time. Prevailing market conditions will also have an impact on the vacancy period. Simply it is our aim to lease your property at the highest possible rent to the most suitable tenant in the shortest possible time. A dedicated leasing consultant handles the leasing process of your investment property.

How do I know that my property will be managed properly?

Each client is provided with their own portfolio manager to effectively manage their property. Our portfolios are kept to a manageable size so each manager can spend an appropriate amount of time with their clients. At Fletchers, we conduct weekly training and staff also attends regular outside training courses, which are fully funded by the company. An experienced property manager, who assists the portfolio managers when required, heads the department. We believe that our structure allows us to look after each clients needs to a very high standard. Testimonials received over a long period of time from both landlords and tenants are available for your perusal.

How do you check a prospective tenant?

Our leasing consultant conducts personal inspections of properties with prospective tenants. To apply for a property, a prospective tenant is required to complete a detailed application form supply references where appropriate. This form is checked thoroughly including National Tenancy Database and Public Records Search Checks. The landlord is then presented with these details for consideration. The landlord makes the final decision on all applications and we are pleased to offer our thoughts.

How do you collect the rent?

Tenants are signed up on a direct debit facility before the commencement of their tenancy, this reduces the problem of arrears

Once the rent has been paid, how quickly do I receive payment?

At Fletchers we direct credit landlords rental funds five times a week (Monday-Friday). If there is to be any delay our landlords are contacted and advised.

How do you handle non-payment of rent?

Our property managers check their arrears daily and once a tenant is two days in arrears, they are contacted by all available means. If payment is still not received after 3-4 days, the tenant is contacted again and advised that should they not meet their rental commitment, a final notice will be served followed by an application to VCAT (Tribunal). Due to selecting good tenants and following these procedures as a rule, we do not experience many problems with non-payment of rent.

Do you hold the bond and do I receive the interest?

Estate agents are required to lodge all residential bonds received with The Residential Tenancies Bond Authority within five days of receipt. The interest generated is put back into the running of VCAT and other associated tenancy literature printed etc. The bond can only be released to the tenant or landlord by both parties signing a bond claim form. These signatures are matched up against those on the bond lodgement form at the commencement of the tenancy.

If there is any damage caused to my property, can we deduct money from the bond?

Monies can only be deducted from the bond if the tenant agrees. If there is a dispute between a landlord and tenant, an appropriate application needs to be made to VCAT within 14 days of the tenant vacating the premises. A member of VCAT will hear the case and make a binding decision based on the evidence presented. We encourage a landlord and tenant to resolve any disputes applying to VCAT is a last resort.

How much do you charge?

Since deregulation was introduced to the industry, our fees are negotiable. They can be higher than some other companies or even the same. We pride ourselves on the level of service given and an excellent track record established since our Property Management department began. Testimonials from both landlords and tenant are available to demonstrate this upon request. We think it is wise for a landlord to consider all aspects of property management in coming to a decision to appoint an agent. Fees are only one component although important, a decision should never be made based on this solely. An expert property manager may cost more initially but overall, they will save you money through thorough management and sound advice. We invite you to contact our office to appraise your property and discuss a management package that suits your requirements.