Referencing fee and credit check-estate agent?

Question

I am currently wanting to rent an apartment (UK) and have discovered that most agents make you pay a fee just for applying to let a property. I understand that i can't avoid this fee but as most agents do a credit check, i am worried that i will end up paying this fee and not getting the apartment as i have very bad credit due to living in student houses the past few years and having bad housemates who wouldn't pay bills which were in my name (never going to make that mistake again!).

I was wondering that as i am in the position to pay 6 months rent up front on a 6 month lease, will i be able to get away with not applying and paying this reference fee if they do not need to guarantee the rent?
One estate agent led me to believe this but he had an independent business and therefore could make these decisions.

Answer 1

Check out your local newsagents window (and on-line Craig's List etc) for private landlords who you can go visit /contact direct .. so long as you have good references (from the place you work) and can also show a recent bank Statement (that proves you have the cash) most Landlords I know would jump at the chance of 6 months 'up front' rent ... (unless, of course, you have a wife & kids and there is no real prospect of getting you out at the end of the 6 months).

As you say, a lot of "agents" have started to charge applicants with no real chance of finding accommodation ...

Keep looking for a reputable agent = 'real' agents change the Landlords for finding tenants .. those who charge the tenants are AS WELL are just trying to get two bites at the cherry :-)