The Property Podcast ASK498: Should I use a letting agent or not? PLUS: As an expat, am I stuck?
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Oct 14, 2025 In a lively discussion, Simon grapples with the choice between using a letting agent or managing his rental property himself. The hosts emphasize valuing time and suggest starting with an agent to learn the ropes. Aisling, an expat in Australia, seeks guidance on overcoming high buy-to-let mortgage rates and releasing equity from her properties. They caution against selling a 'problem' property in a declining market, encouraging strategic timing for the best financial outcome.
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When To Use A Letting Agent
- Use a letting agent if the property is far from where you live because managing remotely takes significant time and effort.
- If the property is local, start with an agent to learn processes and build connections, then consider self-managing later.
Value Your Time In Remote Management
- Managing a distant buy-to-let remotely is possible but demands many unpaid hours and a local network you won't have immediately.
- Valuing your time realistically often makes outsourcing to an agent the economically smarter choice.
Use Agents As A Learning Step
- Learn from a letting agent by observing their processes and contacts before deciding to self-manage yourself.
- Keep a good agent if they provide peace of mind and efficient back-office management for your portfolio.