Flat/house hunting (to let). Tips/advice desired.

Thanks for that advice!

We're hoping to get an unfurnished flat.  Just because we want to set up a home of our own.  I don't know if that explains it well enough, but we just want our little place.

I've seen certain flats on the market that have been there for a few months, but those are just exceptions, I suppose.  Like you've said, it all seems to go pretty quick!  I'm going to start officially looking to let in the beginning of March.

Thanks for that advice about the utilities!  Would it be better to go with the same or different supplier in terms of what the previous tenant has held?

some leases state that you cannot change utilities.

some locations only have a limited amt of choice when it comes to utilities (for exmample, i can only use anglian water for water but can use one of a dozen or so for gas & elec).

it might be easier to set up the account with the existing supplier, then look at switching in a few months.  there are loads of comparison sites, www.uswitch.com, is just one of them.

some "utilities" have min contracts- sky, BT line rental, broadband, some special gas/electricity tariffs.

You're welcome -- and I totally understand about renting an unfurnished place. That would be my preference as well, but my partner and I are sticking to furnished until we can either find a place with a longer lease or buy. We've had to move each year since I arrived in the UK and I'm glad we didn’t have to arrange for movers each time.

In terms of utilities, in my opinion less hassle to keep the existing companies but it may be financially better for you can find a special deal and switch. Regardless of either, you should of course make the decision based on your needs and whatever works best for you.

And one more suggestion: You’re probably looking online so check the flats in both the rental and sales categories. Many times flats are on the market and to keep them earning estate agents often rent them out at the same time. If it were me, I'd avoid one that's also for sale -- it usually guarantees you’ll have to move in 6-12 months.