top of page

🏠 How to Move Your Property Management Smoothly in Edinburgh

  • Writer: Sean McMahon
    Sean McMahon
  • Nov 3
  • 3 min read

Why Some Landlords Decide to Switch Agents




ree

In Edinburgh’s busy rental market, many landlords start with a large or long-established agency, but over time discover the service doesn’t quite match their expectations.


Sometimes it’s communication delays, unexpected fees, or simply feeling like one of hundreds of clients.


We regularly hear from landlords who began with big brands such as Your Move, Rettie & Co., DJ Alexander, or Umega, but now prefer a more personal, transparent service where they can deal directly with one trusted expert.


If you’re in that position — wondering how to make a change without disruption — here’s exactly how to move your property management smoothly.




Step 1 — Check Your Current Contract



Every management agreement should include a notice period (often 28–60 days).

Before doing anything else, review:


  • How much notice you need to give your current agent.

  • Whether there are exit or transfer fees.

  • Who holds the tenant deposit (so it can be reassigned).



💡 Tip: Ask your new agent (like The Letting Experts) to review the contract and guide you through the notice process — we handle this for our landlords all the time.





ree

Step 2 — Choose a New Agent That Aligns with Your Goals



When moving management, look for:


  • Clear fee structure with no mark-ups on maintenance.

  • Dedicated point of contact — ideally the business owner or senior expert.

  • Digital transparency (regular or online statements, inspection photos, and compliance tracking).

  • Client-money protection and SAL membership.



Independent firms like The Letting Experts Edinburgh offer direct communication and full compliance support — giving you the confidence that every certificate, inspection and payment is handled correctly.




Step 3 — Notify Tenants Professionally



A professional handover protects both your reputation and the tenancy relationship.

Your outgoing agent should notify tenants formally that management is transferring.


Your new agent will then:


  • Introduce themselves.

  • Provide updated rent-payment details.

  • Confirm who to contact for maintenance.



Handled properly, tenants experience no disruption — just improved service.





ree

Step 4 — Transfer Deposits, Keys and Compliance Documents



The new managing agent will need copies of:


  • Tenancy agreement

  • EICR & PAT certificates

  • Gas safety certificate (if applicable)

  • Legionella risk assessment

  • EPC

  • Deposit protection certificate

  • Inventory & inspection records



The Letting Experts carry out a full compliance audit on every new property — highlighting any gaps before they cause issues with the Housing (Scotland) Bill or upcoming EPC changes.


Your new agent will also need to carry out due diligence with ID checks, anti-money launder / sanctions check and will require proof of ownership of the property. They will also ask you for your Scottish Landlord registration details.




Step 5 — Schedule a Property Review & Rent Check



Once management transfers, it’s the ideal time to review:


  • Current market rent vs. local averages i

  • Condition improvements to attract quality tenants.

  • Future compliance requirements under Scottish regulation.



We provide landlords with a free Rent & Compliance Review, including updated valuations and cost-effective improvement tips.




Step 6 — Sit Back and Enjoy Better Service



A smooth switch should feel effortless — that’s exactly how we handle it.

Most transfers complete within 2–3 weeks, and we liaise directly with your previous agent to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.


At The Letting Experts Edinburgh, you’ll always have one dedicated contact, 7 days a week — no call centres, no delays, no confusion.




Thinking About Switching from Rettie & Co. or Another Agent?



If you’re ready for a more transparent, responsive property management experience, we can handle the full transfer on your behalf.


📞 Book your free Rent & Compliance Review today:




🧾 Quick Checklist for Landlords Switching Agents



Task

Done

Review current management contract (notice & fees)

Appoint new agent & sign new management agreement

Notify tenants & deposit scheme of change

Transfer compliance certificates & keys

Schedule property inspection & rent review

Confirm all future communication channels

ree

Comments


bottom of page