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>> "The problem with Rightmove and Zoopla is that they don’t see the renter through to the point of viewing properties – renters have to ring up so many differe

>> "The problem with Rightmove and Zoopla is that they don’t see the renter through to the point of viewing properties – renters have to ring up so many different estate agents (there are over 2,000 in London) that it’s nearly impossible to keep track of bookings and you have to note down all these details elsewhere" This is a problem? I've rented several times in London, including recently. Calling someone and writing a time down in your calendar is not a problem. I also don't see how feedback/review or properties is going to be useful. People have very different expectations. When moving and renting out my old room I've had people think the place was amazing and others think it was terrible. You need to see places yourself, in person. Honestly I think the whole 'renting in London is hard' thing is overblown. I'm working on a pretty low budget and I can find rooms that are good enough for me quite easily. I've also gone through the process of renting an entire apartment (as opposed to just a room) and it's even easier. You call several estate agents, tell them your budget and requirements, and when something comes up they call you. And it's free.

danpalmer 11y ago
Having just finished this process (found a flat 2 days ago), I couldn't disagree more. Finding a flat was essentially a full time job for me for a week. Agents don't respect your time, or your budget, the good stuff isn't on Rightmove because it's gone by the time the agent gets around to adding it, viewings have to be within 48 hours or else the place is gone, etc. It's honestly one of the most stressful things I have to do. (although I don't think this app solves that)
crdoconnor 11y ago
>I also don't see how feedback/review or properties is going to be useful. If there were a public 'issue tracker' for properties that would be very useful. Seeing how quickly and how well Landlords respond to things like a broken heating system or mold would be invaluable when finding a place to live, and having this information made public would also kick some of them into action. Similarly, if renters could have their payment history tracked so landlords know that they pay on time and that previous landlords didn't have any disputes with you, that would be invaluable.

danpalmer 11y ago

Having just finished this process (found a flat 2 days ago), I couldn't disagree more. Finding a flat was essentially a full time job for me for a week. Agents don't respect your time, or your budget, the good stuff isn't on Rightmove because it's gone by the time the agent gets around to adding it, viewings have to be within 48 hours or else the place is gone, etc. It's honestly one of the most stressful things I have to do. (although I don't think this app solves that)

crdoconnor 11y ago

>I also don't see how feedback/review or properties is going to be useful. If there were a public 'issue tracker' for properties that would be very useful. Seeing how quickly and how well Landlords respond to things like a broken heating system or mold would be invaluable when finding a place to live, and having this information made public would also kick some of them into action. Similarly, if renters could have their payment history tracked so landlords know that they pay on time and that previous landlords didn't have any disputes with you, that would be invaluable.