Get with the programme, say tenants

Half of tenants believe the tenancy application process is slow and outdated, according to market research company, Populus, who conducted a survey on behalf of tenancy software specialist OnBoard Pro. 1,000 Private Rental Sector tenants were questioned to give an independent analysis of the technology used in the lettings market. The results raised some thought-provoking points about current technology and how improvement could mean a better experience for tenants and more efficient processes for landlords and agents. The technology used varies but paperwork and manual processes occupy a huge amount of employees’ time. 52 per cent of tenants agreed that tenancy applications are reliant on outdated technology and feel that the efficiency of the application processes are not adding value or positivity to their customer experience. The survey also highlighted that an overwhelming majority of tenants would like to be able to pre-complete applications before meeting an agent and are keen to migrate from paper forms to apply from home. Tenants prepared to pre-apply and tee-up their referees in this way can reduce the agent’s workload and put themselves in a better position to secure their property of choice. Whilst increased regulation has been proposed, the tenancy 61 per cent…