Renters Reform Bill: An Update for Landlords

After years in the making, it looks like the Renters Reform Bill – the biggest shake-up of the private rental sector in decades – will become a reality in 2024.

So, how much do you know about this wide-reaching set of proposals, and are you ready for them?

Be prepared

Perhaps you’ve read a few articles about the bill but have put off getting to grips with the details (after all, politicians put forward all sorts of proposals, many of which never happen).

Or … Continue Reading…

Seven Simple Steps for Tenants to Combat Mould and Condensation

In the winter, we’re guaranteed a few things.

It’ll be raining when we least want it to.

A local postie will still be wearing shorts, no matter how cold it is.

And condensation will appear at some point – often in our homes.

While you can’t do anything about the weather (or the postie’s clothing choices), you can take some simple steps to combat condensation.

We’ve come up with seven quick fixes that can dramatically reduce the risk of condensation, ensuring your home stays fresh … Continue Reading…

How to Spot the Signs of Illegal Subletting

Did you know that one in ten tenants admit to illegally subletting their rental property*?

The practice is even more common among young people; in a recent survey, 25% of tenants aged 18 to 24 confessed to secretly subletting all or part of their rental.

So why should landlords be concerned about illegal subletting? After all, if the rent still gets paid on time, what’s the problem? Here are a few reasons.

You have no idea who is living in your property and … Continue Reading…

Tenant Trends: How to Meet the Demands of Renters Today

Whether you’re a first-time investor or an experienced landlord looking to expand your portfolio, it pays to know what tenants want.

Understanding current trends in the market will help you fine-tune your rental marketing strategy and ensure that any improvement work you undertake proves to be of good value.

So, what are tenants looking for in 2024? Let’s take a look.

Affordability

Given we’re in a cost-of-living crisis, it’s not surprising that affordability is the top concern for tenants.

With the average UK monthly rent … Continue Reading…

Why Guppies Make Good Tenants and How You Can Attract Them

If you’re wondering what Guppies are (and we’re not talking about fish here) and what they’ve got to do with the property sector, let us explain.

The term ‘Guppies’ refers to tenants in the 18 – 39 age bracket who see themselves staying in the rental market for the long term.

The nickname comes from the phrase ‘Given Up on Property’ because Guppies don’t see home ownership on the cards for them for at least the next decade.

For some, this is because … Continue Reading…

How to Prevent Condensation – A Landlord’s Guide

As a landlord, maintaining your property in top condition is paramount.

It’s your investment and your tenant’s home.

At this time of year, condensation can be an issue. And it can cause mould in your property if ignored.

The good news is we’re sharing six steps you can take to prevent these problems before they become an issue.

Quick fixes

Ensure adequate ventilation: One of the primary causes of condensation is poor ventilation. Make sure your property has sufficient airflow. Install extractor fans in high-moisture … Continue Reading…

Five Ways to Improve the Management of Your Rental Property in 2024

Have you decided to make a few changes in 2024? Vowed to get fit, work less or take up a new hobby?

Well, if you’re a landlord, why not make a few property-related resolutions too?

Think about it – if you can introduce changes that make managing your rental less stressful and more efficient, you can spend more time focusing on your personal goals.

Here are five resolutions that could save you time and money.

Insurance

Note down when your landlord insurance is due for … Continue Reading…

What’s in Store for 2024? A Look at the Year Ahead in the Buy-to-Let Sector

There’s no doubt that 2023 was challenging for the private rental sector, but looking ahead, landlords have plenty of reasons to be cheerful.

While no one knows precisely what will happen in 2024, economists believe interest rates and inflation have peaked, and that the economy will continue to rally. 

Here’s an idea of what forecasters predict for the next 12 months*.

Demand

The long-term imbalance between … Continue Reading…

How Landlords Can Spread Christmas Cheer to Their Tenants

Landlords are often portrayed as Grinch-like characters.

Devoid of fun, lacking humanity and relentlessly greedy.

In our experience, working with dozens of landlords across East Northants, this Scrooge stereotype simply isn’t true.

In fact, we often get contacted by generous landlords seeking ideas to spread a little Christmas cheer to their tenants.

So, with that in mind, ho, ho, how’s this for five little things that can make a big difference when it comes to building goodwill and rapport?

Personalised simplicity

A handwritten Christmas card can … Continue Reading…

Seven Ways to Prepare Your Rental Property for Winter

Forecasters predict this winter will be cold and dry – making it likely we’ll get lots of snow.

While this is excellent news if you’re a skier, if you’re a landlord, it means there’s no room for complacency when it comes to maintenance and repairs.

Freezing temperatures can cause all sorts of property damage, so it’s vital that your rental is ready for the tough months ahead.

Here’s a list of seven ways to winter-proof your property to avoid expensive repair bills and … Continue Reading…