One of the leading retail websites has released some interesting figures this week and made some even more interesting comments. According to the figures for website lettingaproperty.com there site refers tenants that fall into these categories. 77% are in full-time employment, 4% are part-time employed, 4% self-employed, 1% students and 14% are unemployed.
The interesting comments regarding this data were made by Jonathan Daines, founder of the website when he said
“I am pleased that the site generates quality leads for Landlords and Agents from employed tenants; however I am concerned that landlords may be missing an opportunity if they do not at least consider tenants claiming income support or LHA.The most common reason given by landlords is due to a poor experience that they have had in the past with their local councils and rent payments.”
He goes on to add that in his opinion that particular landscape has changed dramatically recently. He says that local councils are now more aware than ever that they need to get proactive when it comes to these issues.
Most councils now will entertain the idea of requests for rent to be paid directly to the landlord, despite recent changes in the LHA that allowed for it to go to the tenant. This is very good news indeed for those of us that would like to take the opportunity of renting to those that are on LHA so long as we can rely on being paid.
