AD | Preparing to Rent in London

It’s been a strange 10 months that’s for sure!  When lockdown started in March my ex had broken up with me a few months prior and quickly moved out at the start of lockdown.  I managed 6 months of living and renting alone before I started working out what to do next.  I was looking at moving into a house share, but as the possibility of my office reopening looking less and less likely I took the decision in August to move back up north to Yorkshire for a while.  Initially, it was only to be for a month but well…I’m still here!  As the new year has begun I am once again looking at starting afresh, moving back down to London and hopefully at some point getting back into the office and some kind of normality.  Here is how I am preparing to once again re-rent in London:

Declutter

I feel like I’ve had a major clear out in every lockdown we’ve had and yet I’m still managing to find more stuff to get rid off.  I feel like being at home more has given me a better insight into what things I do and don’t use, and clear out accordingly.  This is a must-do before a big move!

Keep an eye on the market

Even though I don’t have a definite moving date yet it’s important to keep an eye on what’s available, where and for how much.  London can be expensive but with so many people leaving the city you might just be able to get more bang for your buck.

Hunt around for your favourite area

Even in lockdown through the joy of google maps you can hunt for the areas in London you think might be a good fit for you.  London is such a big place this can take some time!

Checking your landlords are covered

If you do find somewhere you love, whether it’s a direct private rental or through a spare room sublet it’s important to make sure you are renting from legitimate people.  Making sure they have things such as insurance (it’s worth recommending they compare landlord insurance if they don’t already) and ask if they are part of any accreditation schemes so you can check.

Preparing to get to know new housemates

I don’t know about you but this far into Covid shutdowns, I have genuinely forgotten how to interact with new people!  So preparing to be social again and think of some good ice breakers is a must!

Save for a deposit and furniture

London deposits aren’t the cheapest as we all know and knowing some of my old furniture just won’t fit a new space means I am preparing to have to splash out on some new stuff, but who doesn’t love decorating their new space?  Thankfully lockdown is certainly handy if you are looking to save money as I can’t go anywhere…

Are you looking to rent in London again soon?  How are you preparing?