How to apply for your dream property:

Step 1 – Register your requirements

The first step is to contact our lettings centre on 0191 261 5010 or email property@keystone-estates.com to discuss your individual requirements with our fully trained staff.

Step 2 – The Search for your property begins

Once we have a clear understanding of the type of property you require we will be able to advise you of any we feel match your criteria. You can then view the ones you feel are suitable on the website via the photographs or our walk through video, and if it still appeals then you can shortlist it and view it in person.

Please note: In order to secure a property, we recommend an early viewing. A property can only be removed from further viewings by the payment of a Holding Fee which allows you 7 days to complete and return Application Forms for Referencing. This fee is non refundable where a Tenant fails to get a satisfactory Reference or changes their mind.

Step 3 – Accompanied Viewings

We always carry out accompanied viewings and carry them out at a time to suit you, whether this is after work or at a weekend. We have found that by doing accompanied viewings we can answer any questions then and there, ensuring you have all the correct information to make an informed decision about your potential property and are not stuck with a middleman.

Step 4 – Selecting a Property

Once you have selected a suitable property we will require a non refundable administration fee of £100 per adult this holds the property to you for 7 days while your application is processed.

Firstly though you will be given an application form to fill in, which will enable us to carry out a credit check and the referencing process. We also require the following information along with the completed credit reference form:

• Proof of current address (Utility bill within last 3 months or current Tenancy agreement)
• Proof of Identity (Driving Licence or passport)
• Three months payslips or Bank statements

Step 5 – Rental Paperwork

Tenancy Agreement – Once the landlord confirms that they are happy to proceed, we will draw up the tenancy agreement and all the other relevant paperwork for you to read and sign. Our agreements are comprehensive but we always maintain that they are fair for both sides, hence if you look after the property and pay your rent there will never be any problems.

Property Inventory – Before moving into one of our Managed properties an inventory will be prepared by an independent inventory company to ensure that the condition of the property is fully documented prior to the commencement of the tenancy. The inventory is also supported with high resolution photographs and a walk through video. Upon commencement of the tenancy you will be given a copy of both on DVD and also the written inventory. You will be asked to sign the inventory and have 7 days to advise us of any discrepancies.

This is to help us look after your Deposit and protect you as a tenant.

Step 6 – Rent, Deposit and Fees

Rent – We require the first month’s rent in cleared funds before you move into your property. For the subsequent rent payments we will set up a Standing Order on your behalf for the rent to be automatically transferred to our clients account if we manage the property or if it is not managed then it will go direct to the landlords Bank each month.

Damage Deposit – This is also required before you move in and will equal one month’s rent plus £50. This money will be returned at the end of the tenancy, subject to the findings of the inventory check out report. In line with recent legislation, where relevant, your deposit will be held in accordance with the government scheme we use, [mydeposits.co.uk].

Administration Fees – Our administration fee are £100 per adult tenant.

Renting can be confusing and here at Keystone we always wish to be honest and clear at every stage.

Below is an example of the costs for a property where the rent is £600 and there are two adult tenants.

Administration fees  £200

First Month’s Rent    £600
Damage Deposit      £650

Total payable          £1450

Less Admin fee already paid  £200

Total due on move in day   £1250

Total reimbursed on moving out  £650  (Provided there is no damage or cleaning required)

Step 7 – Completion

Congratulations, once all the money has cleared, the keys can be handed over and you can move into your new home.