By Rebecca VieiraMost landlords and tenants are likely anxious to complete the home renting process, so the last thing they want is a last-minute surprise.The lease is the final hurdle landlords and tenants face after they have agreed to rent the property, but it’s important to be prepared to avoid obstacles that may delay the move.There are several ways landlords (and tenants) can ensure the process goes smoothly.Hire a real estate agentWith so much free information and marketing options now available, the question of why to hire a real estate agent often comes up.When you have a plumbing problem you call a plumber or when you have legal questions you call a lawyer ... Real estate is no different.If you want an expert on your side, to guide you through the entire process, you need to hire an agent.Benefit from an agent’s negotiating experience. An agent is not only a buffer between a landlord and tenant but with many negotiating factors like price, lease terms, commencement date, renewals, repairs/upgrades and furnishings having a knowledgeable agent will help ensure you achieve the best deal possible.Find out what it is worthKnowing the current market is critical to successfully renting your property in today’s market.Most landlords only need to find a tenant every couple of years and are therefore not up to date with recent market trends. Having your agent produce a Comparative Market Report (CMA) on your property will show you: what comparable properties have recently rented, number of days they were on market, and what hasn’t rented.If you price the property too high, you lose money because it does not rent; if you price it too low ... you lose money as well.Finding a tenantFor an agent, marketing doesn’t only consist of an ad in the newspaper.Of course we market properties on our websites, local newspapers, Facebook, flyers, e-mail blasts etc, but a large number of transactions come through our previous customers/clients, referrals, friends and family.When marketing your property with an agent they will pre-screen/qualify prospects, giving you added peace of mind.Understand the procedureBefore hiring an agent, it’s crucial to fully understand the process and what the agent will do on your behalf.By knowing what to expect, landlords can ask appropriate questions and clarify aspects that they may not understand.It’s also to ensure that all parties are kept in the loop. Human error is natural, but details that get lost in the cracks can lead to delayed or cancelled leases.For this reason, it is important that details are in writing. Find out if your agent:1. Gets the offer with details in writing from the tenant.2. Has a professional lease that protects your interests.3. Checks tenants references.4. Runs a check report on the tenant.5. Understands The Rent Increases (Domestic Premises) Control Act 1978. Commonly referred to as Rent Control.6. Understands the Landlord and Tenant Act 197.Prepare for move-inThe Landlord and tenant should make sure they have all that they need for the move.Once the lease has been signed by all parties and the first month’s rent along with the deposit has been paid, now is the time to organise the move.1. If renting, the tenant should now inform his/her current landlord in writing of their move in according to their current lease.2. The tenant needs to take a copy of the lease to Belco to set up service.3. If the tenant has a car, they need to have the Landlord sign a form for TCD.4. Arrange to have other utilities turned on: television service, phone, internet.5. Notify the post office of change of address along with the bank, etc as needed.6. Arrange with Landlord or Property Manager for pre-inspection of property and keys.Following the suggestions given above and hiring the right agent, will allow for a success and smooth transaction.This week’s column was submitted by Rebecca Vieira of Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty. Contact her on 1-441-247-1826.