Carl Mimmack from the firm who offer not just Birmingham apartments to let but property to rent in Leamington and Warwick property to let, said, “Tenant demand outstripped supply from September to November 2008, showing that the rentals market is still buoyant. Tenants can become baffled with all the hidden costs involved with renting a property, so it is essential that these barriers are broken down to pave the way for more accessible information.”

The most common charges tenants should expect to pay before they move in are administration charges, referencing charges, tenancy deposit charges and a retaining deposit.

Mr Mimmack , whose letting agents offer a wide range of rentals to suit all budgets from Birmingham apartments to larger property to rent in Birmingham , added , “Administration charges often stem from the agent and cover their time. I would always advise anyone looking to rent a property especially for the first time to ask about any administration charges before paying their deposit, just so that you are prepared for this.”

Tenants are often aware of a holding deposit being required prior to move in, but many are often left confused with regards to why one is required and what that deposit will cover. It is advisable to check with your agent, what the conditions of this deposit are and when it will be returned.

Prior to your move in date the agent will run through a reference check in to ensure that, you do not have any outstanding arrears, using third party sources.

It is important to note that at Accord should you fail these referencing checks you will receive a full refund. However other agents are likely to retain monies received.

Mr Mimmack added, “Finally the tenancy deposit will be required. This is often the last cost required from the tenant, and covers any damage to the property whilst in use. The usual amount to be requested is one month’s rent, and this will be payable up front before the move in date. Enforced on 6 th April 2007, The Tenancy Deposit Scheme now ensures that at the end of their tenancy agreement, tenants receive the money to which they are entitled, whilst also encouraging a clear agreement upon the terms of the deposit between the landlord or letting agent and tenant. This was an important move for the industry and allows protection for tenants against rogue letting agents.

Mr Mimmack added, “The best advice I can give anyone looking to rent in 2009 is to speak to an agent who are ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents) members. This gives you the peace of mind that that the monies being taken are bonded and guaranteed to be available.

About Accord

Accord was formed in 1990 with the aim of providing a professional, approachable, honest and caring service.

They are a premium-letting agent with property to let in Leamington , Birmingham and Warwick.

They believe that they have been able to hold on to these principles and that is the reason why so many of their clients have continued to use them. Their clients include a mix of prospective tenants and property owners, and they are proud that their clients still recommended them to others.

Currently the company has two offices: one in Birmingham city centre and the other in Leamington Spa.

As a company they are committed to building long-term relationships as they have found that property letting is not just about property and systems but, most importantly, about people.