Flat service takes hassle out renting

A NEW service has given tenants in Edinburgh the chance to rent a private flat without having to shell out on an expensive deposit.

The Letfirst service allows landlords to benefit from guaranteed rental income while, for the first time, potential tenants have the opportunity to rent property in the city without the need for a deposit or admin fee.

The new initiative is run by property specialist Orchard & Shipman. John Taylor, chief executive of the company, said: "Letfirst offers a different way of renting property which makes sense for landlords as well as providing support for tenants.

"It is only natural that some potential landlords may be nervous about letting their properties without a deposit, but the reality is that a deposit provides minimum protection."