Re: Renting room(s) to others?
As far as references go, would you know a genuine one from one written by a friend?
I've rented a few properties out over the years and you wouldn't believe the lengths some bad tenants will go to to find a new place.
Best to use a professional agent who has access to credit checks and bank references.
Besides which, if anything does go wrong, it's much better to deal with via a professional who is conversant with the landlord and tenants rights.
And then there is the question of your obligations as in getting a gas safety certificate and fire precautions and council permission to rent out. Then there is arrangements to be made regarding insurance and mortgage provider if you still have a mortgage.
If you don't want to use an agent, it would be a good idea to use one to set it all up.