Landlords Guide

Professional Property Management. Personal Service. Competitive Fees.

At Kent Sales and Lettings, we understand that your property is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents a valuable investment, and choosing the right letting agent is an important decision.

Whether you are letting a property for the first time, managing an established portfolio or considering changing your existing letting agent, our experienced team is here to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

As an independent estate and letting agency based in Dover, we provide professional residential lettings and property management services throughout Kent.

With a managed portfolio of approximately 500 properties, we have extensive hands-on experience in protecting landlords' investments, maintaining properties and navigating the increasingly complex requirements of the private rented sector.

Our approach is simple: professional management, honest advice, transparent fees and a genuinely personal service.

We believe landlords should have confidence that their properties are being managed effectively, their tenants are being treated fairly and their interests are being properly represented.

Why Choose Kent Sales and Lettings?

Experienced Property Management You Can Rely On

Being a landlord involves considerably more than finding a tenant and collecting rent.

From ensuring your property meets current legal requirements to dealing with maintenance, managing tenancy issues and keeping up with changes in legislation, there are numerous responsibilities that require time, knowledge and experience.

Our comprehensive management service is designed to take much of that responsibility away from you.

We combine the knowledge and resources of an established property management business with the personal approach and flexibility of an independent local agency.

What makes us different?

• Extensive Experience: An established management portfolio of approximately 500 properties across Kent.

• Competitive Management Fees: Our standard management fee is 10% + VAT, with individually negotiated rates available.

• Transparent Pricing: Clear fees without unnecessary administration charges.

• Prompt Rent Payments: Landlord rent payments are normally processed the next working day after cleared funds are received, subject to weekends, bank holidays and any agreed deductions.

• Professional Tenant Referencing: Comprehensive referencing and Right to Rent checks, where applicable, through professional third-party providers.

• Independent Inventories: Professional third-party inventories, check-ins and check-outs included within our fully managed service.

• Maintenance Coordination: Access to our established network of local contractors without additional agency commission on routine maintenance arrangements.

• Legal and Regulatory Knowledge: Practical guidance on landlords' responsibilities and changes affecting the private rented sector.

• Personal Service: A knowledgeable and approachable team that understands your property and your individual requirements.

Our aim is not simply to manage properties but to build lasting relationships with landlords who value professional advice, reliable communication and genuine value for money.

Our Letting and Management Fees

Clear, Competitive and Straightforward

We believe landlords should know exactly what they are paying for.

Our fees are designed to be competitive while providing a comprehensive service that protects your investment and reduces the time and effort involved in managing a rental property.

Fully Managed Service

Management Fee: 10% + VAT (12% including VAT) of rent collected

Tenancy Set-Up Fee: £299 + VAT (£358.80 including VAT)

Our fully managed service includes:

Marketing and Tenant Selection

• Property marketing and advertising.

• Arranging and conducting viewings.

• Handling enquiries and applications.

• Professional tenant referencing.

• Right to Rent checks where applicable.

• Preparation of tenancy agreements.

• Provision of required tenancy documentation.

Moving Tenants In

• Professional independent inventory.

• Professional check-in.

• Registration of the tenancy deposit with the Deposit Protection Service (DPS).

• Notification to relevant utility providers of changes in occupancy.

• Administration of the commencement of the tenancy.

Ongoing Property Management

• Collection and administration of rent.

• Prompt payment of rent to landlords.

• Monitoring and following up rent arrears.

• Handling tenant enquiries and maintenance reports.

• Arranging quotations and coordinating approved maintenance.

• Liaising with contractors.

• Routine property inspections.

• Advising on relevant safety and compliance requirements.

• Managing tenancy-related correspondence.

• Assisting with lawful rent reviews.

• General tenancy administration and ongoing landlord support.

End of Tenancy

• Coordinating the tenancy termination process.

• Arranging a professional independent check-out.

• Assessing the property's condition against the original inventory.

• Assisting with deposit deductions and negotiations.

• Coordinating the return of keys.

• Advising on any works required before remarketing.

Our fully managed service is designed to provide landlords with ongoing support and peace of mind.

You retain ownership and control of your investment while we take care of its day-to-day management.

Negotiable Management Fees

A Competitive Approach for Every Landlord

Although our standard tenancy set-up fee is fixed at £299 + VAT (£358.80 including VAT), we recognise that every landlord's circumstances are different.

Our management percentage is negotiable.

We are happy to consider reduced management fees based on factors including:

• The monthly rental income achieved.

• The number of properties within your portfolio.

• The type and location of the properties.

• The level of management required.

• A comparable written management quotation from another letting agent.

Whether you own one property or a substantial portfolio, we welcome the opportunity to discuss a competitive management package tailored to your requirements.

Tenant Find Only

Find the Right Tenant with Professional Support

For landlords who prefer to manage their own properties but would like professional assistance finding a suitable tenant, we offer a comprehensive Tenant Find Only service.

Tenant Find Fee: £500 + VAT (£600 including VAT)

Our service includes:

• Property marketing and advertising.

• Arranging and conducting viewings.

• Handling prospective tenant enquiries.

• Professional tenant referencing.

• Right to Rent checks where applicable.

• Preparation of the tenancy agreement.

• Provision of required tenancy documentation.

• Professional independent inventory.

• Professional tenant check-in.

• Notification to relevant utility providers of changes in occupancy.

Once the tenant has moved in, responsibility for ongoing management transfers to the landlord.

Important: Under our Tenant Find Only service, landlords remain responsible for protecting tenancy deposits, ongoing maintenance, rent collection and compliance with their legal obligations.

We can explain these responsibilities before the tenancy begins.

Thinking of Changing Your Letting Agent?

Better Service. Competitive Fees. A Straightforward Transfer.

If you are unhappy with your current letting agent, concerned about rising management costs or simply feel that your property deserves more attention, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss your requirements.

Changing letting agents does not necessarily mean changing tenants or disrupting an existing tenancy.

At Kent Sales and Lettings, we regularly assist landlords who wish to transfer the management of their properties from another agency.

We can help coordinate the handover, including obtaining tenancy documentation, arranging the transfer of relevant records and notifying tenants of the new management arrangements.

We are happy to review your existing management agreement and discuss whether we can offer a more competitive fee or improved level of service.

Our aim is to make transferring to Kent Sales and Lettings as straightforward as possible.

Any transfer remains subject to your existing agent's contractual terms and applicable notice requirements.

Maintenance and Property Care

Looking After Your Property

Maintaining a rental property is essential to protecting its value, meeting legal requirements and ensuring tenants have a safe and comfortable home.

Our experienced property management team works with an established network of local contractors across a range of trades.

We can assist with routine maintenance, emergency repairs, statutory safety checks and larger property improvement projects.

We believe landlords should have clear information about proposed works and associated costs.

For routine maintenance coordination, we do not charge additional agency commission simply for arranging contractors, obtaining quotations or organising standard safety appointments.

Where specialist services or exceptional work fall outside our standard management package, any applicable agency charges will be explained in advance.

Contractor invoices, statutory certificates and other third-party costs remain payable separately.

Our priority is to ensure maintenance issues are addressed appropriately, efficiently and with consideration for both the landlord and tenant.

Keeping Up with Landlord Legislation

Supporting Landlords in a Changing Rental Market

The private rented sector has undergone significant legislative changes, making professional property management increasingly important.

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduced major reforms from 1 May 2026, including changes to tenancy arrangements, possession procedures and rent increases.

At Kent Sales and Lettings, we recognise the importance of keeping landlords informed about the legislation affecting their properties.

Our management service includes practical guidance on relevant requirements, including:

• Tenancy agreements and statutory documentation.

• Property safety and maintenance obligations.

• Gas and electrical safety requirements.

• Energy Performance Certificates.

• Tenancy deposit protection.

• Right to Rent requirements.

• Rent increases and prescribed notice procedures.

• Property licensing requirements where applicable.

• Lawful tenancy termination and possession procedures.

We aim to help landlords understand their responsibilities and manage their properties in accordance with current legislation.

Where specialist legal advice or representation is required, we can recommend that landlords obtain assistance from an appropriately qualified professional.

Professional Standards and Client Money Protection

Your Confidence Matters

At Kent Sales and Lettings, we believe professional standards, transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining the confidence of landlords and tenants.

We are a member of the Property Redress Scheme, providing access to an independent complaints resolution process where qualifying disputes cannot be resolved directly.

We also recognise the importance of protecting client funds and maintaining appropriate financial controls.

Client money is handled in accordance with applicable requirements, including the use of designated client accounts and appropriate Client Money Protection arrangements.

Our commitment is to provide landlords with clear financial records, prompt rent payments and professional management of the funds entrusted to us.

Landlord Insurance

Protecting Your Investment

Having suitable insurance is an important part of owning a rental property.

Standard residential home insurance may not provide the protection required for a tenanted property.

We have established relationships with local insurance brokers who can assist landlords seeking quotations for appropriate cover.

Depending on your requirements, this may include buildings insurance, landlord liability insurance, loss of rent cover and other specialist landlord insurance products.

Whether you are arranging insurance for a new investment or reviewing an existing policy, we can introduce you to brokers who can discuss your requirements.

All insurance quotations, terms and cover are provided by the relevant insurance provider or broker.

Local Expertise Across Kent

Based in Dover, Kent Sales and Lettings provides residential lettings and property management services throughout East Kent and surrounding areas.

Our coverage includes Dover, Deal, Sandwich, Folkestone, Hythe, Hawkinge, Capel-le-Ferne, St Margaret's, Canterbury, Ramsgate, Broadstairs, Margate, Birchington, Sittingbourne, Medway, Maidstone, Harrietsham, Tunbridge Wells and surrounding locations.

Our knowledge of these markets enables us to advise landlords on achievable rental values, local demand, property presentation and opportunities to maximise the potential of their investments.

Whether you own a single rental property or a portfolio across several locations, we are happy to discuss your management requirements.

Let Us Take the Stress Out of Being a Landlord

At Kent Sales and Lettings, we understand that every landlord wants three things: a well-maintained property, reliable rental income and confidence that their investment is being properly looked after.

Our role is to help you achieve those objectives through experienced management, straightforward advice and a professional service that represents genuine value for money.

We believe in building long-term relationships with our landlords, many of whom entrust us with properties that represent a significant part of their financial future.

Whether you are a first-time landlord, an experienced investor or considering changing agents, we would welcome the opportunity to show you what Kent Sales and Lettings can offer.

Contact Us Today

Arrange a free, no-obligation rental valuation or speak to our team about our competitive management packages.

Kent Sales and Lettings
Independent Estate Agents & Property Management Specialists
Dover, Kent

Telephone: 01304 268101

Your Property. Our Priority.

 

 

To find out more please contact us today, or why not request a free, no obligation, valuation of your property.