If you're a landlord, property manager, or letting agent in the UK, you're likely familiar with OpenRent. This platform has gained recognition as one of the largest and most successful letting agents in the country.
In this comprehensive OpenRent review, we will explore the features, benefits, and drawbacks of OpenRent, providing you with all the information you need to decide if it's the right platform for you.
OpenRent was launched in May 2012 and has rapidly gained recognition as one of the leading letting agents in the UK. With over 4.2 million active users, OpenRent aims to make renting safer, cheaper, and fairer for all parties involved. The platform has facilitated over 150,000 tenancies and assisted more than 70,000 landlords.
OpenRent primarily serves as an advertising platform for landlords, allowing them to list their properties on reputable portals such as Zoopla and Rightmove. Tenants can search for properties, schedule viewings, and make offers through the platform. OpenRent is also a member of the Property Ombudsman for Lettings, ensuring that landlords and tenants are protected.
★★★★★ 4.2
One of the primary reasons landlords use OpenRent is its advertising services. By creating a listing, landlords can showcase their properties on popular portals, maximising exposure to potential tenants. OpenRent's listings typically receive offers within three days, making it an efficient platform for attracting tenants.
OpenRent offers various packages for landlords, including a free base package, an ultimate advertising package for £29, and the rent now package for £49. These packages differ in terms of the portals on which your property is advertised and the additional services provided.
Finding reliable tenants is crucial for landlords, and OpenRent offers tenant referencing services to streamline this process. For a fee of £20, landlords can access individual referencing services or include it as part of the rent now package. OpenRent provides updates via email on the status of each reference check, helping landlords make informed decisions.
OpenRent offers a range of additional services to support landlords throughout the tenancy process. These services include obtaining gas safety certificates for £45, energy performance certificates for £69, and electric safety certificates for the same price. Landlords can also opt for inventory checks, professional photography services, and viewing services at additional costs.
OpenRent's pricing structure is straightforward and competitive compared to traditional high street agents. The core service, Rent Now, costs a one-time fee of £49 with no renewal fees. Landlords can choose to upgrade to the ultimate advertising package for broader exposure, but the Rent Now package provides essential features for a cost-effective solution.
OpenRent isn't just for landlords; it also offers numerous services for tenants. One significant advantage for tenants is that OpenRent does not charge any administration fees, making it more affordable to find and secure rental properties.
Tenants can browse through the extensive selection of properties listed on OpenRent, search for specific criteria, and schedule viewings. The platform also offers a transparent and user-friendly interface, making it easy for tenants to navigate and find their ideal rental property.
To gauge the reliability and legitimacy of OpenRent, let's take a look at what customers have to say about their experiences with the platform.
Many customers have had positive experiences with OpenRent, applauding its fast results, competitive pricing, user-friendly interface, and flexibility in negotiating rent and rates. Landlords particularly appreciate the speed at which they find tenants and the savings they achieve by using OpenRent.
Some customers have reported issues with OpenRent, primarily related to holding deposit and refund problems, landlords manipulating listing prices, long vacancies, and poor communication and customer service. However, it's important to note that OpenRent promptly responds to negative reviews, offering explanations and resolutions to address customer concerns.
No, OpenRent also caters to tenants by providing a user-friendly platform with a wide selection of rental properties and no administration fees. As a user, you are able to find properties that are listed as available to rent.
OpenRent's core service, Rent Now, costs a one-time fee of £49. Additional services, such as advertising on major portals or obtaining safety certificates, come at additional costs. Compared to finding a tenant through a high-street agent where you would pay on average 10%, this is a phenomenal saving.
OpenRent is a legitimate and reliable platform for renting properties. The legitimacy of OpenRent can be attributed to several factors:
OpenRent is known for its transparent approach to renting properties. They provide detailed information about each listing, including photographs, floor plans, and descriptions. This transparency ensures that tenants have a clear understanding of what they can expect from a property.
Users often find OpenRent to be user-friendly. The platform is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for both landlords and tenants to navigate. The process of searching for properties, submitting applications, and paying fees is straightforward.
The services offered by OpenRent are typically as described. Properties are listed accurately, and the platform provides tools for landlords to present their properties honestly. This reduces the chances of misunderstandings or disputes between tenants and landlords.
OpenRent is praised for its customer support services. They have a dedicated support team that is readily available to address any questions or concerns users may have. Being able to easily contact the support team is a crucial aspect of ensuring a positive user experience.
★★★★★ 4.2
OpenRent offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional high street agents, providing competitive pricing, transparent fees, and a range of services tailored to landlords' and tenants' needs.
We absolutely recommend OpenRent; it's a really easy-to-use platform, offering everything you need to connect with potential tenants. You can use the platform to have them book viewings directly with you or collect their contact details via email. With OpenRent, you can easily list and amend your property on partner sites, such as Rightmove
In conclusion, OpenRent offers a reliable, cost-effective, and user-friendly platform for landlords and tenants in the UK rental market. Its range of services, competitive pricing, and commitment to making the rental process easier and fairer sets it apart from traditional high street agents. Whether you're a landlord searching for tenants or a tenant looking for a rental property, OpenRent provides a valuable solution.
Stuart is an expert in Property, Money, Banking & Finance, having worked in retail and investment banking for 10+ years before founding Sunny Avenue. Stuart has spent his career studying finance. He holds qualifications in financial studies, mortgage advice & practice, banking operations, dealing & financial markets, derivatives, securities & investments.
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