How It Works
Whether you are letting a property for the first time or reviewing an existing arrangement, understanding how the process works gives you better control of the outcome. The following sets out the key stages of a Prime Central London letting.
Step 1 — Market Appraisal
The process begins with a rental valuation. Our adviser will visit the property, assess its condition and presentation, review comparable evidence in the immediate area and advise on a realistic rental range. We will also confirm which service level is most appropriate and outline the fee structure clearly before any instruction is agreed.
We do not charge for initial appraisals. There is no obligation to proceed.
Step 2 — Preparing the Property
Presentation has a measurable effect on achievable rent and on the quality of tenant you attract. Before marketing begins, we advise on any works, redecoration or staging that would make a material difference to the property’s positioning. Foster Row can coordinate light refurbishment or professional styling through our network, including our associated construction and refurbishment practice.
Required compliance documentation should be in place before marketing commences, including a valid EPC, gas safety certificate and electrical installation condition report.
Step 3 — Marketing and Viewings
Once instructed, we prepare the marketing materials and list the property across agreed channels. All viewing enquiries are qualified before appointments are arranged. We accompany all viewings and provide feedback promptly.
For off-market instructions, we approach applicants directly from our existing register and through our network of relocation agents and corporate contacts.
Step 4 — Receiving and Negotiating Offers
When an offer is received, we present the terms clearly alongside our assessment of the applicant’s suitability. The decision to accept, counter or decline remains yours. We handle all negotiations on your behalf and manage expectations on both sides of the transaction.
Step 5 — Referencing and Tenancy Agreement
Once terms are agreed, the prospective tenant undergoes formal referencing. Subject to satisfactory references, we prepare the tenancy agreement and arrange for all parties to execute the documents. The deposit is collected and registered with a government-approved scheme in accordance with statutory requirements.
Step 6 — Move-In and Handover
An inventory is prepared by an independent clerk prior to the tenancy commencing. On the day of move-in, the property is inspected and the inventory signed off. Keys are handed over and utility accounts are transferred into the tenant’s name. For fully managed clients, our property management team takes over the relationship at this point.
Step 7 — During the Tenancy
For landlords on a managed service, Foster Row monitors the tenancy on an ongoing basis: rent collection, periodic inspections, maintenance coordination and compliance renewals as they fall due. For let-only clients, we remain available to advise on any issues that arise.
Step 8 — Renewal and Review
Approaching the end of a tenancy, we advise on renewal terms relative to current market conditions. If the rent is below market, we recommend a structured increase. If the tenancy is to end, we begin remarketing in sufficient time to minimise any void period.
Find out more in our Full Landlord Guide.
