Step 2 - Instruct a lettings agent

Choose a lettings agent that you are comfortable working with. Professional fees will be agreed in advance and will depend on the level of service you wish them to provide - arrange property viewings, tenant screening and selection only? Or full property management, including rent collection, maintenance and emergency repairs?

Step 3 - Prepare well for viewings

In today's market the standards for rental property are high and it has never been more important to make a good first impression. The smallest of changes can make a huge difference though and they needn't cost a fortune. We can offer personalised and tailored presentation advice to give your property the edge.

If you have tenants currently residing in the property, you will need to let them know that viewings will be taking place and the importance of keeping the property looking presentable.

Step 4 - Maximum exposure

Sherry FitzGerald Lettings will develop a tailored marketing package for your property that includes a same day listing on the top property websites.

Advertising and promotional costs are usually a separate cost to professional fees and will also be agreed in advance.

Step 5 - Pick your favourite

A shortlist of potential tenants will be presented to you for consideration, once all references have been checked.

Step 6 - Secure them with a deposit

An initial security deposit of one months rent and one months rent in advance is the norm. The security deposit will be reimbursed to the tenant at the end of the tenancy, subject to the details of the rental agreement.

Step 7 - Rental agreement

So that there is no confusion for either party, a rental agreement is drawn up and signed by each party, detailing property address, monthly rent amount, deposit paid, date that rent is due, names of occupants etc. Most rental agreements are for a period of 12 months.

An inventory of the contents and condition of the property will also be drawn up and agreed to, by both landlord and tenant.

Step 8 - Legal requirements

As a landlord, you have certain legal obligations, such as registering with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) and ensuring that the property is legally safe for occupancy - gas safety, fire and furnishing regulations, appliances and electrical installations.

We can advise you on this and arrange the necessary inspections.

Regarding utilities, the tenant usually takes all of these over under their name on moving into a property. Sherry FitzGerald Lettings will arrange for the transfer of utilities into your tenants name, and help to set up their standing orders.

Step 9 - Move in

Keys will be handed over to the tenant and they can move in. Congratulations, your property is let!