Originally Posted by Okuda

I'm not really sure how to word what I want to search for on the internet so am hoping some of you can help me out.

I'm told there are home rental agencies and such that are set up specifically to help expats who are returning to the UK. If so what would I search for? I've found 'relocation specialists' .. but frankly .. I don't need all the faff they do with it, all we need help with is finding somewhere to rent so we can move straight in when we get off the plane.

On our recent visit back we paid a visit to a couple of estate agents to talk about sorting out a rental property for when we return. We explained we'd have to rent unseen (well we would see photographs) but we'd have family go to the property for us to ensure its something we'd be happy with as they know what we'd like and they we'd sign forms and scan/email them/send payment and they seemed a bit shy about renting unseen.

I can't imagine we are the first family in this predicament? Any advice?

Originally Posted by sallysimmons

You're welcome. It shouldn't be the case, but I really do think having a home finder helps you with estate agents and landlords. Because Brits are very careful with their money, people tend to think you must be swimming in cash if you are willing to pay someone to find a home for you (even though honestly the fees are not all that expensive).

I'd far rather pay the home finder fee than pay 6 or 12 months rent in advance, because obviously when you do that, you lose all leverage. Our boiler went out the other day - if I'd already paid the landlord, I wonder how fast he would have been at fixing it.

Good luck!

Originally Posted by UK IFA

I have asked a friend of mine to join the forum as she is a relocation specialist based in Sussex, she may also be able to help, hopefully