Land Sales Across Hertfordshire: What It Could Mean for Stanstead Abbotts

 

Hertfordshire County Council’s plan to raise £169 million through land and property disposals could influence smaller markets such as Stanstead Abbotts. As more land becomes available for development, nearby towns and villages may see increased housing activity.

Stanstead Abbotts, with its desirable village setting and strong commuter links, could benefit from wider regional growth driven by these changes.

Opportunities for Growth

Although large-scale developments may not be directly within Stanstead Abbotts, nearby projects can:

• Increase demand for surrounding areas
• Improve infrastructure and transport links
• Attract new residents to the region

This can have a positive ripple effect on local property values and rental demand.

The Impact on the Stanstead Abbotts Rental Market

Landlords in Stanstead Abbotts may see increased interest from tenants seeking quieter locations close to larger towns and developments. This makes the village an attractive alternative for renters who want a balance of lifestyle and connectivity.

However, competition from nearby new-build developments may influence tenant expectations.

Why Village Locations Remain Desirable

Stanstead Abbotts continues to appeal to tenants looking for a community feel, access to green spaces, and convenient commuting options. These lifestyle factors often outweigh the appeal of larger developments for certain renters.

As a result, demand for rental properties in Stanstead Abbotts is likely to remain steady.

Adapting to Regional Market Changes

Even if developments are not directly within the village, their impact can still be felt. Increased housing supply in nearby areas can influence pricing, tenant demand, and overall market dynamics.

Landlords should remain aware of these wider trends.

Long-Term Outlook for Stanstead Abbotts

The wider investment in Hertfordshire’s housing market reflects confidence in the region. For Stanstead Abbotts, this supports long-term growth and reinforces its position as a desirable place to live within East Herts.

Why Choose Hunters Stanstead Abbotts

At Hunters Stanstead Abbotts, we help landlords in Stanstead Abbotts navigate market changes with confidence.

Contact Hunters Stanstead Abbotts today for expert local advice.

CONTACT HUNTERS STANSTEAD ABBOTTS TODAY

Your local property experts, our advice is free but our knowledge is priceless.

 

 

"I have been in and around the Hertfordshire property market for over 25 years, starting as an estate agent in the county town of Hertford and now running a successful lettings and property management company based in Stanstead Abbotts. I have let and managed property all over Hertfordshire from the area that I currently work to Wheathampstead where I owned and managed a lettings & estate agents to Watford and surrounding areas where my company acted as a marketing agent for one of the largest property management companies in the country.”

House Share Pricing in Stanstead Abbotts: Why Fairness Matters in 2026

 

In Stanstead Abbotts, the rise of house shares is bringing increased attention to how rents are set within shared properties. Tenants are becoming more aware of pricing differences and questioning whether they are fair and justified.

As affordability pressures continue, shared living remains a popular option. However, this also means landlords must be more careful than ever when structuring room rents.

Why Pricing Differences Can Cause Issues

When tenants discover they are paying more than others for similar rooms, it can create tension within the household. Without clear reasoning, these differences can feel arbitrary and lead to dissatisfaction.

In a smaller community like Stanstead Abbotts, maintaining positive tenant relationships is especially important.

How Local Demand Impacts House Share Pricing

Stanstead Abbotts benefits from strong commuter links and a desirable village setting, which continues to drive rental demand. While this can support higher rents, tenants still expect consistency within a shared property, making balanced pricing essential for long-term stability.

The Importance of Getting Pricing Right from the Start

Setting the correct pricing at the beginning of a tenancy is crucial. Adjusting rents later can be difficult and may lead to further dissatisfaction among tenants. A well-thought-out pricing structure from day one helps avoid disputes and ensures all tenants feel they are being treated fairly.

How Landlords Can Avoid Disputes

To ensure fairness, landlords should:

• Align pricing with room features and benefits
• Be consistent in how rents are calculated
• Communicate clearly with all tenants

A transparent approach helps build trust and reduces the risk of complaints.

The Growing Importance of Fair Lettings

Tenants today expect fairness, not just affordability. In Stanstead Abbotts, where demand remains strong, landlords who adopt a clear and consistent pricing strategy are more likely to attract and retain quality tenants.

Why Choose Hunters Stanstead Abbotts

At Hunters Stanstead Abbotts, we help landlords in Stanstead Abbotts set fair, competitive rents that reflect the local market.

Contact Hunters Stanstead Abbotts today for expert advice on managing your house share.

CONTACT HUNTERS STANSTEAD ABBOTTS TODAY

Your local property experts, our advice is free but our knowledge is priceless.

 

 

"I have been in and around the Hertfordshire property market for over 25 years, starting as an estate agent in the county town of Hertford and now running a successful lettings and property management company based in Stanstead Abbotts. I have let and managed property all over Hertfordshire from the area that I currently work to Wheathampstead where I owned and managed a lettings & estate agents to Watford and surrounding areas where my company acted as a marketing agent for one of the largest property management companies in the country.”

New Rules on Rent in Advance in Stanstead Abbotts in 2026: What Landlords Need to Know

 

The lettings market is undergoing significant change in 2026, and for landlords in Stanstead Abbotts, understanding the new rules around rent in advance is essential. With the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act, there is now a stronger focus on fairness, transparency, and consistency at the start of every tenancy.

These changes directly impact how and when landlords can request rent, meaning traditional practices must be reviewed to remain compliant.

No Rent Before the Tenancy Is Signed

One of the most important updates is that landlords can no longer request or accept rent before a tenancy agreement has been formally signed.

This ensures tenants fully understand the terms before making any financial commitment and removes ambiguity from the pre-tenancy process. For landlords in Stanstead Abbotts, it means:

• No holding rent or advance rent before signing
• Verbal agreements are not sufficient
• A signed tenancy agreement must be in place before payment

This shift promotes a clearer and more professional lettings process.

Limits on Rent in Advance

Once the tenancy agreement is signed, landlords can request rent, but there are now strict limits. Under the new legislation, landlords can only request up to one month’s rent in advance.

This represents a significant change, particularly in areas where multiple months’ rent upfront was previously common.

For landlords in Stanstead Abbotts, this means adapting your approach to tenant selection and affordability checks rather than relying on larger upfront payments.

Prohibited Clauses in Tenancy Agreements

Another key change is the restriction on certain tenancy agreement clauses. Any requirement for tenants to pay rent in large lump sums, such as quarterly or termly payments, is now considered invalid.

Landlords should ensure:

• No clauses require more than one month’s rent upfront
• Payment terms align with current legislation
• Older tenancy templates are fully updated

Failing to review agreements could lead to compliance issues or disputes.

Why These Changes Matter for Stanstead Abbotts Landlords

These updates are part of a wider shift towards a more balanced rental market. While they reduce upfront costs for tenants, they also encourage landlords to adopt more structured and transparent processes.

Across Stanstead Abbotts and the wider East Herts area, this means:

• Greater consistency in lettings
• Improved tenant trust
• Reduced risk of disputes

With rental demand remaining strong, landlords who adapt quickly will be best positioned for long-term success.

Why Choose Hunters Stanstead Abbotts

Navigating new rental legislation can be complex, but getting it right is essential to protecting your investment.

At Hunters Stanstead Abbotts, we support landlords across Stanstead Abbotts and East Herts with compliant, data-led lettings strategies. From tenancy set-up to ongoing management, we ensure your property meets all current legal requirements.

If you are letting a property in Stanstead Abbotts, contact Hunters Stanstead Abbotts today for expert advice and a tailored lettings strategy.

CONTACT HUNTERS STANSTEAD ABBOTTS TODAY

Your local property experts, our advice is free but our knowledge is priceless.

 

 

"I have been in and around the Hertfordshire property market for over 25 years, starting as an estate agent in the county town of Hertford and now running a successful lettings and property management company based in Stanstead Abbotts. I have let and managed property all over Hertfordshire from the area that I currently work to Wheathampstead where I owned and managed a lettings & estate agents to Watford and surrounding areas where my company acted as a marketing agent for one of the largest property management companies in the country.”

Reducing Ombudsman Risk in Stanstead Abbotts in 2026: Why Tenancy Set-Up Matters More Than Ever

The lettings landscape is continuing to evolve, and for landlords in Stanstead Abbotts, the way a tenancy is set up at the very beginning has never been more important. With increasing regulation and the growing role of ombudsman schemes in resolving disputes, small mistakes at the start of a tenancy can now lead to significant issues later.

In 2026, successful lettings are no longer just about finding a tenant quickly. They are about creating a clear, compliant, and well-structured tenancy from day one that protects both landlord and tenant.

Why Ombudsman Risk Is Increasing

The private rental sector is becoming more regulated, with stronger protections for tenants and more structured dispute resolution processes. Proposed changes such as the introduction of a new property ombudsman aim to provide fair and impartial resolutions without the need for court proceedings.

While this creates a more transparent system, it also means that landlords must be more diligent. If a dispute arises, decisions will often be based on the quality of documentation, communication, and processes followed at the start of the tenancy.

For landlords in Stanstead Abbotts, this makes getting the tenancy set-up right more critical than ever.

Why the Start of a Tenancy Is So Important

Many disputes that reach an ombudsman do not arise from major issues, but from misunderstandings or unclear expectations. A poorly structured tenancy can lead to disagreements over rent, maintenance, responsibilities, or notice periods.

A strong tenancy set-up should clearly define:

• Rent terms and payment schedules
• Responsibilities for maintenance and repairs
• Expectations around property use and care
• Processes for reporting issues

A clear agreement protects both parties and reduces the likelihood of disputes escalating.

The Role of Clear Documentation

Documentation is one of the most important tools landlords have to reduce risk. In the event of a complaint, the outcome will often depend on what evidence is available.

Key documents include:

• A detailed tenancy agreement
• Inventory and check-in reports
• Records of communication with tenants
• Proof of compliance with legal requirements

Without proper documentation, it becomes much harder to demonstrate that processes have been followed correctly. As highlighted in landlord guidance, tenancy agreements are essential for proving what was agreed and avoiding disputes.

Tenant Vetting and Affordability Checks

A successful tenancy often starts with choosing the right tenant. Thorough referencing and affordability checks help ensure tenants can meet their financial commitments and maintain the property.

This includes assessing:

• Income and employment stability
• Credit history
• Previous rental behaviour

Taking a consistent and fair approach not only supports compliance but also reduces the likelihood of issues such as arrears or complaints later in the tenancy.

Communication Sets the Tone

Clear and consistent communication from the outset is key to preventing misunderstandings. Tenants should know exactly what is expected of them and how to raise concerns if needed.

When expectations are set early, tenants are more likely to:

• Pay rent on time
• Report maintenance issues promptly
• Follow the terms of the agreement

This helps create a more stable and positive tenancy overall.

Maintenance and Ongoing Management

Many disputes arise from maintenance issues that have not been addressed quickly or effectively. Landlords are responsible for keeping properties safe and in good condition, and failure to do so can lead to complaints or escalation.

Regular inspections and prompt responses to issues help:

• Protect the condition of the property
• Maintain tenant satisfaction
• Reduce the risk of formal disputes

Staying proactive is far more effective than reacting once a problem has escalated.

Why Local Knowledge in Stanstead Abbotts Matters

While legislation applies nationally, the way tenancies perform can vary depending on the local market. In Stanstead Abbotts and the wider East Herts area, tenant expectations, affordability levels, and property types all influence how a tenancy should be structured.

Understanding the local market ensures that:

• Properties are positioned correctly
• Tenants are assessed appropriately
• Agreements reflect realistic expectations

This local insight plays a key role in reducing risk and improving long-term outcomes.

Why Choose Hunters Stanstead Abbotts

Reducing ombudsman risk starts with getting the basics right. A well-structured tenancy, clear documentation, and proactive management can make all the difference.

At Hunters Stanstead Abbotts, we support landlords across Stanstead Abbotts and East Herts with fully compliant, professionally managed lettings strategies. From tenant selection to tenancy set-up and ongoing management, we ensure every detail is handled correctly to minimise risk and protect your investment.

If you are letting a property in Stanstead Abbotts or the surrounding East Herts area, contact Hunters Stanstead Abbotts today for expert advice and a tailored lettings strategy designed to reduce risk and maximise long-term success.

CONTACT HUNTERS STANSTEAD ABBOTTS TODAY

Your local property experts, our advice is free but our knowledge is priceless.

 

 

"I have been in and around the Hertfordshire property market for over 25 years, starting as an estate agent in the county town of Hertford and now running a successful lettings and property management company based in Stanstead Abbotts. I have let and managed property all over Hertfordshire from the area that I currently work to Wheathampstead where I owned and managed a lettings & estate agents to Watford and surrounding areas where my company acted as a marketing agent for one of the largest property management companies in the country.”

Keeping Your Let Compliant in Stanstead Abbotts in 2026: What You Can Say, Ask and Check

 

The lettings landscape is changing rapidly, and for landlords in Stanstead Abbotts, staying compliant has never been more important. With increasing regulation and a stronger focus on tenant rights, how you advertise, communicate, and assess applicants must now follow clear legal guidelines. From what you can and cannot say in listings, to how you assess affordability fairly, compliance is no longer just a legal requirement—it’s a key part of successful lettings in 2026.

Why Compliance Matters More Than Ever

The rental market is becoming more regulated, with legislation placing greater emphasis on fairness, transparency, and non-discrimination. Landlords must ensure that all interactions—from marketing a property to selecting a tenant—are handled correctly. Failing to comply can lead to serious consequences, including fines, legal disputes, and delays in regaining possession of your property. In a market like Stanstead Abbotts, where demand remains steady, staying compliant also helps attract high-quality tenants and builds long-term trust.

What You Can’t Say in Property Listings

When advertising a rental property, language matters. Listings must not include anything that could be seen as discriminatory. This means avoiding restrictions or preferences based on characteristics such as age, gender, family status, ethnicity, nationality, or disability. Equality legislation makes it clear that both landlords and agents must not discriminate or even appear to do so when letting a property. Instead, property descriptions should focus on the features of the home, its location within Stanstead Abbotts, and suitability based on objective criteria.

What You Can Ask Prospective Tenants

While there are limits on what you can say, landlords are still able to ask relevant and lawful questions to assess whether a tenant is suitable. Appropriate questions typically include employment status, income, intended move-in date, number of occupants, and previous rental history. These types of questions help build a clear and compliant picture of the applicant without crossing legal boundaries. A structured pre-screening process can also save time and reduce risk when letting your property.

Assessing Affordability Fairly and Consistently

Affordability checks are a key part of tenant selection, but they must be applied fairly and consistently to all applicants. Many landlords use a benchmark where a tenant’s income is around 2.5 to 3 times the annual rent. However, affordability should always be assessed holistically, taking into account income stability, credit history, financial commitments, and whether a guarantor is required. Ensuring tenants can comfortably afford the rent alongside their living costs helps create more sustainable tenancies and reduces the likelihood of arrears.

Avoiding Discrimination While Managing Risk

One of the biggest challenges for landlords in 2026 is balancing risk management with compliance. You can make informed decisions based on financial evidence and references, but not on personal characteristics or assumptions. Consistency is essential. Applying the same criteria to every applicant not only ensures fairness but also protects landlords from potential legal issues.

The Importance of a Structured Lettings Process

A clear and structured lettings process is essential in today’s market. This should include consistent pre-screening questions, professional referencing checks, documented affordability assessments, and right to rent verification. Taking this approach reduces legal risk and helps secure reliable tenants, while also improving the overall efficiency of the lettings process.

Why Local Expertise in Stanstead Abbotts Makes a Difference

Compliance requirements apply across the UK, but understanding how they relate specifically to the Stanstead Abbotts rental market is crucial. Local demand, affordability levels, and tenant expectations can all influence how a property should be marketed and let. This is why local expertise plays such an important role in achieving the right outcome.

Why Choose Hunters Stanstead Abbotts

Maximising compliance while securing the right tenant requires more than just following guidelines. It requires local insight, experience, and a proactive approach to lettings. At Hunters Stanstead Abbotts, we support landlords across Stanstead Abbotts and East Herts with fully compliant, data-led lettings strategies. From marketing your property correctly to carrying out fair and thorough tenant checks, we ensure every step meets current legal standards while protecting your investment.

If you are letting a property in Stanstead Abbotts or the surrounding East Herts area, contact Hunters Stanstead Abbotts today for expert guidance and a compliant lettings strategy tailored to you.

CONTACT HUNTERS STANSTEAD ABBOTTS TODAY

Your local property experts, our advice is free but our knowledge is priceless.

 

 

"I have been in and around the Hertfordshire property market for over 25 years, starting as an estate agent in the county town of Hertford and now running a successful lettings and property management company based in Stanstead Abbotts. I have let and managed property all over Hertfordshire from the area that I currently work to Wheathampstead where I owned and managed a lettings & estate agents to Watford and surrounding areas where my company acted as a marketing agent for one of the largest property management companies in the country.”

How to Set the Right Asking Rent in Stanstead Abbotts in 2026

 

The rental market is evolving, and for landlords in Stanstead Abbotts, setting the right asking rent from the very start has never been more important. With new legislation removing rental bidding wars, the strategy for achieving the best return has shifted.

Rather than relying on tenant competition to drive up the final rent, landlords must now focus on accurate, evidence-based pricing from day one. The good news is that, in a strong market like Stanstead Abbotts, this creates a more stable and predictable environment for successful lettings.

Why Pricing Right First Time Matters More Than Ever

Recent changes in the rental sector mean landlords and letting agents must advertise a fixed rent and cannot accept offers above it.

This removes the uncertainty of bidding wars and places greater emphasis on getting the price right at launch. If a property is priced too high, it may struggle to attract interest. If priced too low, landlords risk missing out on achievable income.

In today’s market, there is a clear “pricing window” where demand and value meet. Hitting this sweet spot is key to securing strong tenants quickly and avoiding unnecessary void periods.

Understanding Tenant Demand in Stanstead Abbotts

Stanstead Abbotts remains a highly desirable rental location within East Herts, particularly for tenants seeking a village lifestyle with excellent access to London.

With its riverside setting, strong community feel, and convenient rail links via St Margarets station, the area attracts a wide range of tenants—from commuters to families.

Demand remains steady, but tenant behaviour has become more considered. Rather than competing on price, tenants are focusing on overall value, affordability, and suitability.

For landlords, this means understanding how their property compares to others currently available in Stanstead Abbotts, as well as recently agreed rental prices, rather than relying on wider regional averages.

The Risks of Overpricing and Underpricing

Setting the wrong asking rent can have a direct impact on your return:

• Overpricing can reduce enquiries and extend time on the market, increasing the risk of void periods
• Underpricing may generate quick interest but can result in lost income over time

In today’s market, where you only get one opportunity to launch at the right price, getting this balance correct is essential.

Using Data to Find the Right Rent

Successful landlords in Stanstead Abbotts are increasingly relying on real-time data rather than guesswork. Key indicators include:

• Enquiry levels on similar properties
• Recently agreed rents in Stanstead Abbotts and surrounding villages
• Competing listings across East Herts

Monitoring early interest is especially important. Low enquiry levels may indicate overpricing, while strong demand can suggest the property could have been positioned more accurately.

Why Timing Still Matters

Seasonal demand continues to influence the rental market. Activity typically increases in January and during the summer months, while quieter periods can occur later in the year.

Launching your property at the right time, combined with an effective pricing strategy, can significantly improve your chances of securing a tenant quickly and at the best possible rent.

Acting Early to Protect Your Income

One of the most common mistakes landlords make is waiting too long to adjust pricing if interest is low. Acting within the first few weeks can help prevent extended void periods and lost income.

Smaller, early adjustments are far more effective than larger reductions later, helping to maintain momentum and keep your property competitive.

Why Stanstead Abbotts Landlords Need Local Expertise

The rental market can vary significantly even within East Herts. What works in Hertford or Ware may not directly apply in Stanstead Abbotts.

This is why local knowledge is so important. Understanding tenant demand, pricing trends, and property types specific to the village ensures your property is positioned correctly from the outset.

Why Choose Hunters Stanstead Abbotts

Setting the right asking rent is no longer about guesswork. It requires local expertise, a data-led approach, and proactive management.

At Hunters Stanstead Abbotts, we work closely with landlords across Stanstead Abbotts and the wider East Herts area to ensure properties are priced accurately, marketed effectively, and let quickly to the right tenants.

Our focus is on maximising your rental income while minimising void periods, giving you confidence in a changing market.

If you are letting a property in Stanstead Abbotts or the surrounding area, contact Hunters Stanstead Abbotts today. Our team can provide tailored advice and a clear rental strategy to help you achieve the best possible return.

GET YOUR FREE VALUATION TODAY

Your local property experts, our advice is free but our knowledge is priceless.

 

 

"I have been in and around the Hertfordshire property market for over 25 years, starting as an estate agent in the county town of Hertford and now running a successful lettings and property management company based in Stanstead Abbotts. I have let and managed property all over Hertfordshire from the area that I currently work to Wheathampstead where I owned and managed a lettings & estate agents to Watford and surrounding areas where my company acted as a marketing agent for one of the largest property management companies in the country.”

What the Latest UK House Price Trends Mean for Sellers in Stanstead Abbotts

 

Monthly Average Asking Price Trend
Source: Rightmove

The UK property market has started 2026 with a strong sense of momentum, offering encouraging signs for both buyers and sellers. While headlines often focus on uncertainty, the latest house price trends tell a more balanced and positive story, particularly for homeowners in Stanstead Abbotts.

For those living in Stanstead Abbotts and the surrounding East Herts area, understanding these trends can help you make confident and well-informed property decisions.

A Positive Start to the Year

The beginning of the year saw a noticeable increase in asking prices, reflecting renewed confidence from sellers and a surge in buyer activity following the quieter end to the previous year.

Although prices have settled slightly since that initial rise, this is typical for the market and suggests a return to more stable and sustainable conditions rather than a slowdown.

Overall, house prices remain resilient, showing that demand across the UK property market continues to hold firm.

More Choice for Buyers, More Opportunity for Sellers

One of the key trends in the current market is the increase in available homes for sale. Buyers now have more choice than they have had in recent years, creating a more balanced property market.

For sellers in Stanstead Abbotts, this presents an opportunity rather than a challenge. Homes that are priced correctly and presented to a high standard are standing out and attracting serious interest.

Stanstead Abbotts remains a highly desirable village thanks to its riverside setting, strong community feel, and excellent commuter links into London, meaning demand from buyers continues to be strong.

Why This Is a Good Market for Sellers in Stanstead Abbotts

A market with more choice does not mean less opportunity. Instead, it reflects a shift towards more normal conditions, where well-prepared sellers can still achieve excellent results.

For homeowners in Stanstead Abbotts, this means:

• Buyers are more serious and better prepared
• Sales are based on realistic pricing
• Well-marketed homes can still attract strong offers

Property values remain stable overall, reinforcing confidence for those considering selling in the current market.

Improving Conditions for Buyers

Another positive trend is improving affordability. As wage growth begins to catch up with house price growth, more buyers are able to enter the market with confidence.

At the same time, mortgage options remain competitive, giving buyers more flexibility and choice.

For Stanstead Abbotts, this helps sustain a steady flow of motivated buyers looking for homes in this popular East Herts village.

What This Means for the Stanstead Abbotts Property Market

Stanstead Abbotts continues to attract buyers looking for a balance between village charm and commuter convenience, with easy access to London and a welcoming local community.

Current market conditions mean:

• Demand remains consistent
• Buyers have more choice but are still active
• Realistic pricing is key to achieving a successful sale

For sellers, this creates a stable and active environment where properties can perform well when marketed effectively.

How to Succeed in Today’s Market

To make the most of current conditions in Stanstead Abbotts, sellers should focus on:

• Accurate Pricing: Setting a competitive and realistic asking price
• Presentation: Ensuring the property is clean, well-maintained and professionally marketed
• Local Expertise: Working with an agent who understands the Stanstead Abbotts property market and buyer demand

Why Choose Hunters Stanstead Abbotts

Selling a property in Stanstead Abbotts requires a strong understanding of both local demand and wider market trends. The team at Hunters Stanstead Abbotts has extensive knowledge of the East Herts property market and works closely with buyers and sellers to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Whether you are selling in Stanstead Abbotts, Hertford, Ware or the surrounding villages, our tailored approach ensures your property is positioned correctly and reaches the right audience.

If you are thinking about selling your home in Stanstead Abbotts or across East Herts, contact Hunters Stanstead Abbotts today. Our team can provide expert advice, accurate valuations, and a strategy designed to help you move forward with confidence.

GET YOUR FREE VALUATION TODAY

Your local property experts, our advice is free but our knowledge is priceless.

 

 

"I have been in and around the Hertfordshire property market for over 25 years, starting as an estate agent in the county town of Hertford and now running a successful lettings and property management company based in Stanstead Abbotts. I have let and managed property all over Hertfordshire from the area that I currently work to Wheathampstead where I owned and managed a lettings & estate agents to Watford and surrounding areas where my company acted as a marketing agent for one of the largest property management companies in the country.”