London's Rental Market: Prospective Tenants Face Unprecedented Demands

London, UK – Prospective renters in London are reportedly facing increasingly stringent and unusual demands from estate agents, highlighting the intense competition and challenges within the city's housing market. A recent social media post by a London resident, Harriet, shed light on these conditions after her friend received an email from an estate agent following a property viewing booking. The email, intended as an 'offer letter in advance,' outlined several 'tips' to increase the chances of an offer being accepted. These included: 'Offering over the asking price (If possible),' 'Long contract length,' 'Sticking to the move in date or sooner,' 'Paying upfront (From 3 – 6 – 12 Months if possible),' 'Offer a rent increase each year (If possible),' and 'Bio Description.' Harriet expressed her dismay at these requirements, particularly the suggestion of paying multiple months of rent upfront and proactively offering annual rent increases. She commented on the perceived absurdity of these demands, stating, "Do you think I would be viewing a flat at this price if I could afford a flat over... Oh yes, sorry, let me just get this 27,000 pounds that's sitting in my bank account and give it to you upfront for a rental." She further criticized the idea of offering a rent increase, noting that "landlords grab it from us already." The video underscores the growing frustrations among individuals navigating London's highly competitive and expensive rental landscape.

Metro

2 days ago

These estate agent's demands are ‘ridiculous’ — but are they legal?

May the odds be ever in your favour.