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Finding the perfect rental home for tenants and landlords can sometimes be a challenge. However, there is a lot of common ground that, if covered correctly, can make life easier. So, here are ten things to look out for that may help you find the perfect rental home.

A great location

Location is a big factor that should be considered carefully for several reasons. It’s easy to overlook any location’s plus points. So, take a good look at these; they may include proximity to beauty spots, social scenes, transport links, schools, health care, and more. Good neighbourhoods attract a lot of interest, but so do up-and-coming areas.

An energy-efficient property

Energy-efficient properties are in everyone’s interests, and every little thing you do makes an impact. LED lighting to solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and better insulation, all drive down the cost of monthly bills and can help make the property more self-sufficient. Energy-efficient homes are in high demand and can command a higher rent.

Good rooms

A good bathroom and kitchen are always at the top of the list of priorities. But outdoor spaces and bedrooms should not be an afterthought. Many people consider nice outdoor spaces and gardens to be just as important as any other room in the home.

Modern appliances

A built-in dishwasher, a good washing machine, a reliable oven, and a well-maintained heating system make life easier and reduce the risk of mishaps. If appliances are in excellent working order and have excellent energy efficiency ratings, then you are onto a winner.

Discerning decoration

Decorating is important, but presentability and cleanliness are also paramount. It can be better to leave some decoration to the imagination. Going overboard might not be to everyone’s tastes. Putting your stamp on interiors and decoration is something landlords and tenants should do while being mindful of each other.

An attractive property

Tenants want to love where they live, and landlords want to attract tenants, so it’s mutually beneficial to find an attractive property. Tenants should think about what they really want, while landlords should make it possible. Afterall, the needs of a young professional are different from those of a young family.

Keep within your budget

This is a crucial part of planning for landlords and tenants. With today’s spiralling costs, it’s easy to go over budget. However, if you have a budget, you will have a better understanding of how to make allowances to justify these extra costs, if you exceed it. Better yet, it may help you to find a way to recoup them.

A well-maintained property

Whether you choose to opt for a fully managed service or not, well-maintained properties will prevent small issues from becoming costly repairs. Fully managed properties could provide 24/7 property maintenance support, keeping landlords and tenants happy.

A secure deposit

It is a legal requirement for landlords to place tenant deposits in a tenancy protection scheme (TDP). You can use one of the many schemes available. Once again, this is in the interest of both the landlord and the tenant.

A good tenancy agreement

Good letting agents are often a bridge between the burgeoning gap that sometimes appears between landlords and tenants. Tenancy agreements, deposits, property inspections, maintenance, compliance, and viewings are made easier for both tenants and landlords if carried out by an expert.

The good news that rents are not rising as rapidly must be music to your ears. As the year concludes, rental inflation stands at a lower rate than previous years. This is largely thanks to a 1.6% increase in rents for new lets over the first six months of 2024.* This was the slowest rise since 2021. We discuss the positives this creates for you.

A slowing of spiralling rents

As 2024 draws to a close, rent increases for new rentals are expected to average 3-4%, down from 8% in 2023 and 11% in 2022.* The rental sector welcomes this news, but it's understandable that you'd want more. It’s no secret that the sector is under reform, as the Renters’ Rights Bill aims to improve life for tenants. However, this may take some time to enforce, and there are still many rogue landlords out there.

A less frantic market

With the demand for rented homes less intense, you may have a greater chance of securing the home of your dreams. Homes are in high demand; however, thanks to the reduction in interest rates, first-time buyers are moving out of rented homes. This could potentially lessen the intensity of competition in your search for a suitable home. So, the more prepared you are, the better. However, good properties disappear from the market as quickly as they appear.

More choice

As tenants become homeowners, new developments and new landlords enter the market, you get a wider choice of properties. Sometimes it’s challenging to find the right home. Beginning your search as early as possible will give you the opportunity to keep looking. The more you search, the better your chances. For some, this is an enjoyable experience, for others, not so much. Virtual tours make it easier, but nothing beats an in-person viewing.

A glimpse into 2025

Now that this election year is done and dusted, the UK rental market is settling down. However, if you are thinking of switching homes, it might be wise to act sooner rather than later. This is because many retiring landlords have chosen to sell up. However, the construction of new homes in 2025 promises to offer positivity as the supply of homes increases.

Bring the search to you

It's no secret that the rental market is undergoing significant changes. If you need guidance and the peace of mind that comes with a managed property, using a reputable agent can provide it, plus much more. From assistance with securing your deposit and maintenance to discovering potential property matches, your local agent can help. Getting potential property matches sent straight to your inbox, so you can take a look inside, while you are on the go is a great way to make an early start.

A well-managed property portfolio can provide a sturdy and reliable stream of income and could contribute significantly towards your long-term financial health. So, if you’re ready to add another property to your portfolio, now is the time to do so. As we head into a fresh new year, here are some of the key reasons for investing in property in 2025:

Growth forecasted

If you’re asking yourself: ‘Why should I invest in the UK property market?’ You only need to look at 2025’s outlook for your answer. According to Statista, the rental market is on track for growth of nearly 21% by 2028.*
Since 2021, rental growth has gained substantial momentum, with March 2024 witnessing the highest annual growth in a decade.* This trend reflects the complex dynamics between rising mortgage rates, constrained housing affordability, and a limited supply of rental properties.

Interest rates improving

Interest rates are showing signs of improvement, making the market environment more favourable for landlords and investors. As of October 3, 2024, the Bank of England's base rate stood at 5%, down from 5.25%, which was the highest level seen in 16 years.** This reduction signals a shift that could lower borrowing costs for mortgages and loans in the near term.
According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), mortgage rates are expected to decline gradually over the next few years, averaging at 5.86% in 2025, and 5.49% by 2026. This downward trend could reduce financing costs for investors, enhancing the profitability of property purchases.***

Supply shortages

Despite recent improvements, the rental property market continues to face supply shortages. Although the number of available rental homes has increased by 18% compared to last year, there are still 24% fewer properties available than before the pandemic.**
This persistent shortage leaves renters with fewer options and heightened competition for available homes. For property investors, this represents a prime opportunity. If you have a solid understanding of the market and experience in property investment, now is an excellent time to expand your portfolio, not only to capitalise on strong demand but also to help address the ongoing supply challenges.

High demand

Demand for rental properties is expected to remain strong throughout 2025, driven by a combination of factors. While supply shortages are a significant contributor, the lack of affordable housing for potential buyers is also a major influence. The consistent upward trajectory in house prices will make homeownership less attainable for many, further increasing the demand for rental accommodations. As a result, property investors may expect sustained demand and potentially higher rental yields in the coming years.*

For property investors, strategy is key and usually starts with contemplation. Examining the year behind us can help you to develop your future plans. Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or a potential investor, here are some of the key takeaways from 2024:

Rental growth

In the 12 months to August 2024, average rents increased by 8.4% in the UK, marking a period of steady growth for the market.* This upward trend reflects a surge in tenant demand. With a growing population and ongoing challenges in homeownership affordability, more individuals are opting to rent, intensifying competition for available rental properties. The strong rental growth may continue as supply remains constrained in many regions, making this a key trend for both tenants and landlords alike.

Interest rates

On October 3rd, 2024, the Bank of England's base rate fell to 5%. This was a highly-anticipated decrease from the previous rate of 5.25%, which was the highest level in 16 years.**
The base rate is crucial as it influences the borrowing costs for banks and lenders, which then impacts interest rates on a wide range of financial products, including mortgages, loans, and personal credit.
Homebuyers and property investors are particularly sensitive to these changes, as mortgage rates typically move in line with base rate adjustments. With the base rate falling rather than rising, securing a mortgage has become more attainable this year.

Renters’ Rights Bill

Following the Conservative government’s decision to shelve the Renters' Reform Bill, which had proposed extensive changes to the rental market, the Labour Party has committed to introducing new legislation through the Renters' Rights Bill.
This reform is aimed at rebalancing the power dynamic between tenants and landlords, ensuring that renters have more stability in their living arrangements, while landlords have clearer legal frameworks to follow. As housing policies continue to evolve, both tenants and landlords will need to stay informed on how these legislative changes may impact the rental landscape.

Landlords needed

Despite gradual improvements in the overall supply of rental properties, the market remains strained. The number of available rental homes is still 20% below pre-pandemic levels***, creating a significant supply gap. This shortfall offers a prime opportunity for potential investors, as high demand combined with limited supply is likely to sustain rental price increases in many regions.
For new landlords or those looking to expand their portfolios, entering the market at this pivotal time could prove beneficial. With fewer homes available, renters face intense competition for properties, particularly in urban areas and regions experiencing population growth. This dynamic makes the rental sector an attractive option for investors seeking strong returns.