Welcome to your monthly property update!

Welcome to your monthly property update!




Seaton Grove, Durham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this outstanding three bedroom semi-detached...
 

£895 PCM


Click here to read Seaton Grove, Durham, SR7.



Castlereagh Road, Seaham, SR7

This architect designed four bedroom home occupies a large end of row plot. Recently refurbished and modernised, this home has the wow factor! Internally the...
 

£2,000 PCM


Click here to read Castlereagh Road, Seaham, SR7.



The Village, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this ready to move into farmhouse style property in the highly regarded and sought after residential area of Seaton, Seaham. 
 

£925 PCM


Click here to read The Village, Seaham, SR7.



Byron Terrace,Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this immaculate and ready to move into 3 bedroom terraced...
 
£695 PCM

Click here to read Byron Terrace,Seaham, SR7.



Embleton Mews, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are now taking details of people who would like to view this refurbished, 3 bedroom...
 
£625 PCM

Click here to read Embleton Mews, Seaham, SR7.



Station Road, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings present this 3 bedroom end terrace property in the ever popular town of Seaham. The property is currently being...
 
£695pcm

Click here to read Station Road, Seaham, SR7.



Swallow Street, Seaham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this 3 bedroom terraced property in the ever popular town of Seaham. Available on...
 
£675pcm

Click here to read Swallow Street, Seaham, SR7.



North Road East, Durham, TS28

Kimmitt Lettings have pleasure in offering for let this truly imposing four bedroomed detached, traditional family home situated in the heart...
 
£1,200 PCM

Click here to read North Road East, Durham, TS28.



Oliver Street, Seaham, County Durham, SR7

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this immaculate and ready to move into 3 bedroom end terrace property in the ever popular town...
 
£625 PCM

Click here to read Oliver Street, Seaham, County Durham, SR7 .



Derwent Close, Seaham

Kimmitt Lettings are delighted to present this IMMACULATE 3 bedroom home in the ever...
 
£750 PCM

Click here to read Derwent Close, Seaham.



Live at the Oddfellows Arms, SeahamSaturday March 9th 2024 at 09:00 pm

The Oddfellows Arms, 52 Church Street,Seaham, United Kingdom

Click here to read Live at the Oddfellows Arms, SeahamSaturday March 9th 2024 at 09:00 pm.



Musical Mayhem | Monday, 18th November 2024

Musical Mayhem is a monthly Monday morning one hour long session for families with pre-school or home schooled children to enjoy.


Click here to read Musical Mayhem | Monday, 18th November 2024.



Are you ready for the Renters’ Rights Bill?

The landscape of renting in the UK is on the brink of significant change as the long-anticipated Renters' Rights Bill moves closer to becoming law. Touted as one of the most impactful reforms in decades, the bill aims to address power imbalances between landlords and tenants, improve housing standards, and provide renters with greater security and fairness.

Key provisions of the bill

At its core, the Renters' Rights Bill seeks to:

  1. End no-fault evictions (Section 21): Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a valid reason. This change seeks to provide renters with greater stability and reduce the fear of sudden displacement.
  2. Introduce a decent homes standard for rentals: Minimum living standards will be enforced across all rental properties, ensuring homes are safe, warm, and free from health hazards.
  3. Strengthen rent control mechanisms: While outright rent caps remain controversial, the bill proposes measures to prevent exploitative rent increases.
  4. Create a private renters' ombudsman: Tenants will have a clearer route to dispute resolution, reducing reliance on expensive and time-consuming legal processes.

Impact on tenants

For tenants, the bill represents a long-overdue victory. The end of no-fault evictions will alleviate anxiety for millions of renters who live in fear of losing their homes despite adhering to tenancy agreements. The introduction of clearer living standards will mean landlords are held accountable for providing habitable spaces, reducing issues like damp, poor insulation, and structural disrepair.

How landlords can benefit

While the Renters’ Rights Bill introduces substantial changes, it also brings opportunities for landlords. A fairer and more transparent rental market could lead to stronger tenant relationships, improved retention rates, and reduced void periods. Additionally, ensuring compliance with the decent homes standard can make properties more attractive in a competitive rental market.

Furthermore, clearer and expanded grounds for possession give landlords better legal frameworks for managing their properties effectively, reducing the potential for disputes. Regulating rent increases also fosters trust and goodwill with tenants, promoting a more sustainable rental experience.

What happens next?

The bill is currently making its way through parliamentary processes, with debates ongoing about the finer details. Advocacy groups continue to push for stronger tenant protections, while landlord representatives seek assurances about balanced reforms.

Preparing for change

Tenants should stay informed about their rights and responsibilities under the new legislation. Similarly, landlords are advised to review their practices to ensure compliance with upcoming changes.

The Renters' Rights Bill has the potential to reshape the rental market in the UK for the better. Whether you're a tenant or a landlord, preparation and understanding of the changes ahead will be key to navigating this new era of renting.

Get in touch today for a better experience of renting or letting



Good news for tenants in 2025

The year 2025 is shaping up to be a positive one for tenants, with a series of policy changes, technological advancements, and market trends offering improved living conditions, enhanced affordability, and stronger tenant protections. For years, renters have faced challenges such as rising rents, lack of transparency, and limited legal protections. However, 2025 brings a wave of reforms aimed at addressing these longstanding issues.

Stabilised rental prices

One of the most significant developments is the stabilisation of rental prices in many urban centres. Governments across various regions have implemented stricter rent control policies and increased incentives for developers to build more affordable housing units. These measures have begun to ease the financial burden on tenants, offering more predictable and manageable monthly costs.

Enhanced tenant rights and protections

With the Renters' Rights Bill passing through Parliament, tenants are set to benefit from stronger legal protections. The bill introduces measures to prevent unfair evictions, regulate excessive rent hikes, and provide extended notice periods for tenants facing eviction. Additionally, renters will have improved access to legal aid and mechanisms to address landlord misconduct, ensuring fairer treatment across the rental sector.

Rise of sustainable and affordable housing

A major focus in 2025 has been on sustainable housing developments. Governments and private developers are working together to create energy-efficient rental properties, reducing utility bills for tenants and contributing to environmental sustainability. Many new rental buildings now come with smart home features designed to minimise energy waste.

Digital solutions for better transparency

Technological advancements are also benefiting tenants. Digital platforms now offer greater transparency in rental agreements, automated rent payment systems, and streamlined dispute resolution processes. Prospective renters can easily verify landlord credentials and property details through secure online platforms.

Increasing supply of homes  

In response to rising demand, governments have incentivised property developers to increase the supply of rental properties. Additionally, underutilised commercial spaces are being repurposed into residential units, further expanding housing options.

Focus on community living and amenities

Modern rental developments are placing greater emphasis on community-orientated living spaces. Amenities such as shared workspaces, fitness centres, green spaces, and recreational areas are becoming standard offerings in rental properties, enhancing tenants' overall living experience.

Support for vulnerable renters

Special programmes have been rolled out to support vulnerable groups, including low-income families, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities. Subsidies, rental assistance programmes, and social housing initiatives are playing a critical role in preventing homelessness and housing insecurity.

Looking ahead

While challenges still exist, 2025 marks a turning point in the rental market. With a combination of policy reforms, innovative technologies, and a commitment to sustainable living, tenants can look forward to greater stability, affordability, and overall quality of life. As these changes continue to take effect, the outlook for renters appears brighter than ever before.

 

Get in touch to discuss a better way of renting



Why is the 2025 market looking better for landlords?

The rental market is poised for a significant shift in 2025, offering landlords a more favourable environment after several years of uncertainty and challenges. From rising rental demand to stabilising interest rates and changing housing dynamics, multiple factors contribute to this positive outlook. Below, we explore the key reasons why landlords can expect a better year ahead.

Increased rental demand

One of the primary drivers of a favourable rental market in 2025 is the sustained increase in demand for rental properties. With rising property prices and stringent mortgage lending criteria, many potential homebuyers are choosing to remain in rental properties for longer periods. Additionally, the continued growth of urban areas and migration to cities for job opportunities are expected to drive demand for rental homes and apartments.

Improving interest rates

Financial forecasts predict that interest rates will be more competitive in 2025. This will reduce borrowing costs for landlords who are looking to refinance mortgages or expand their property portfolios. More predictable interest rates also create a more stable financial environment, allowing landlords to plan and budget more effectively.

Rental price growth

Rental prices are expected to see steady growth in 2025. Supply chain improvements and increased construction activity are helping to ease housing shortages, but demand still outpaces supply in many key markets. This imbalance allows landlords to command higher rents while remaining competitive.

Remote work dynamics are shifting again

The remote work trend has evolved since the pandemic, and many companies are now adopting hybrid work models. This has led to renewed interest in urban living, as employees seek proximity to office spaces while retaining some flexibility. For landlords in urban centres, this shift means higher demand for city apartments.

Policy changes favouring landlords

In some regions, governments are revisiting rental regulations and taxation policies to encourage investment in rental housing. Tax incentives, subsidies, or reduced regulatory hurdles could make property investment more appealing for landlords in 2025.

Technology and property management efficiency

Advancements in property management software and smart home technology are making it easier for landlords to manage their properties. From automated rent collection to virtual property tours, technology is helping reduce operational costs and improve tenant satisfaction.

Renters' Rights Bill

The upcoming Renters' Rights Bill, while initially seen as favouring tenants, could also present benefits for landlords. Clearer regulations and transparent tenant responsibilities can reduce disputes and misunderstandings, creating a more predictable rental environment. By establishing well-defined frameworks for maintenance responsibilities, notice periods, and eviction processes, landlords are better protected from unexpected liabilities. A fair legal structure benefits both parties, ensuring landlords can operate with confidence and tenants have security in their agreements.

Conclusion

The year 2025 is shaping up to be a promising one for landlords. With rising demand, stabilising financial conditions, and evolving rental trends, landlords are well-positioned to benefit from these market shifts. While challenges will always exist, the overall outlook suggests that the coming year is well poised to bring increased profitability and stability to the rental property market. For landlords, now might be the perfect time to invest, upgrade, or expand their property portfolios in preparation for the opportunities ahead.

 

Contact us today to maximise your rental

property potential



Five things landlords need to know in 2025

As the rental market continues to evolve, landlords must stay informed about the latest trends, regulations, and opportunities to remain competitive and successful. The year 2025 is set to bring significant changes, and being prepared will be key to navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities ahead. Here are five essential things landlords need to know in 2025.

Rents are increasing with strong demand

Rental demand remains robust, driving rents upward across many regions. The average agent now has 12% more homes available for rent compared to last year, but this figure is still 18% lower than pre-pandemic levels.* This sustained demand creates opportunities for landlords to achieve higher rental yields while maintaining competitive pricing to attract reliable tenants.

Sustainability and energy efficiency

With governments placing increasing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints, landlords will need to prioritise energy efficiency in their properties. Meeting energy performance standards, offering sustainable living solutions, and exploring green financing options will not only ensure compliance but also attract more tenants.

Renters' Rights Bill

The anticipated Renters' Rights Bill is set to reshape the relationship between landlords and tenants. While it aims to offer stronger protections for renters, it also provides clarity for landlords regarding their responsibilities and rights. Transparent guidelines on eviction processes, rent increases, and maintenance obligations will help reduce disputes. A clearer legal framework ensures landlords can operate confidently while maintaining a fair balance with tenant rights.

Stamp duty reforms

The 2% increase in stamp duty represents an additional upfront cost for landlords, however, it is a one-off expense. Over the lifespan of a long-term property investment, this increase is likely to be absorbed by rental income and capital appreciation. Landlords should view this cost in the context of long-term gains rather than an immediate financial burden.

Greater choice in a balanced market

The property market in 2025 is expected to offer landlords greater choice, with a more balanced pace of sales and purchases. This stability allows investors to make informed decisions without the pressure of rapid market fluctuations. Reasonable selling times mean landlords can confidently plan their property transactions, whether buying or selling. In many ways, 2025 is shaping up to be an investor's market, providing opportunities to secure well-priced properties in prime locations.

Conclusion

The year 2025 presents both opportunities and challenges for landlords. By staying informed about evolving tenant expectations, regulatory changes, sustainability requirements, technological advancements, and legislative reforms, landlords can position themselves for success in a rapidly changing rental landscape. Preparation, adaptability, and a proactive approach will be the keys to thriving in 2025.
 
Get ahead in 2025 by contacting us today for expert advice and landlord support

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