Daniella Aspland joined Urban Village at an unusual time. Just one week after she started, lockdown began. But that hasn’t stopped her from making an impact, with new tenants secured and lettings filled even under social distancing (thank goodness for lockboxes and video tours).
Here, Daniella shares her stories from 18 years in the industry – and gives a few pieces of sage advice to landlords.
Tell us a bit about your career so far.
I started at Kinleigh, Folkard and Haywood as a junior negotiator. I knew nothing about property, but I learned quickly! I worked my way up through that branch, until I was given a brand-new branch to manage in Brockley and, later, another in Lee. When I decided I wanted to learn more about the Lettings side, I moved to a lovely little independent call Pickwick Estates, where I set up the Property Management Department. I then moved to Acorn, managing the Property Management department for 5 years, before joining Urban Village this spring.
What do you like best about your job?
It’s a lovely job. I like dealing with lettings because it’s fast-paced. You can turn a deal around and have the tenants move in within just a couple of days. It also suits me because I’m quite direct. If there’s a problem with the property, I’ll tell the landlord and get it fixed. If the tenants are messing us around, I’ll get it sorted quickly.
What’s the most important part of a Letting Agent’s role?
Communication. If a tenant calls and the problem can’t get fixed straightaway, tell them that, and keep updating them until the problem is fixed. The same goes for landlords and any issues they are facing with tenants or their property. Both parties appreciate this and it helps us build positive relationships. Not enough agents prioritise consistent communication.
Lettings is a competitive market – how do you find the right tenants for a property?
You don’t really know what a tenant is going to be like until they move in, which is why good property management is so important.
But the key at the beginning is to ask lots of questions: where have you lived? Were there any problems with your last tenancy? Is your employment permanent? Our job is to make sure the landlord has all of the information they need to make a good decision.
What advice would you give to Landlords letting their property for the first time?
Involve an agent, especially as you’re just starting out. I know I would say this, because it’s my job, but it really is a lot less hassle. There are too many legislations to keep on top of, so unless you’re a lettings guru, get help. With a good agent, you can hand over the property and we’ll take care of the rest.
What’s the biggest mistakes you see landlords make – and how can they prevent them?
Landlords can become too attached to a property. My advice is always: think of this as an investment. This is your business. Don’t think of it personally. It can be particularly tough if it’s your former home, but the more you can separate yourself from it emotionally, the better. It’s easier if you have an agent that you know will care about the property.
Why did you decide to join Urban Village?
I really liked Suzanne and the team as soon as I met them, and I liked that they are a small independent, as it makes my job much more interesting. It’s an opportunity to take on more responsibility and learn even more.
What’s your favourite thing about south east London?
There are some beautiful properties, it’s a pretty area, it has great transport links and everything you need is pretty much on your doorstep. But there’s still a feeling of community, and you don’t get that in many areas.
Final thoughts…do you have any advice for landlords on décor and renovations?
If you have a lot of bold colours, I recommend switching to something neutral if you’re looking to let. Always include white goods if you can. And understand there is no point in letting a property if it’s in a poor state to begin with – it will be a constant battle. Do your renovations before your first tenant, it will be a lot easier.
Are you looking for an agent to let your property? Urban Village can help you rent your property without the hassle. Part of the local community, we know the area and what makes it special to tenants and landlords alike. Call us on 020 3519 9121 to find out more about our Lettings Management service and list your property today.