2025 has kicked off with an unexpectedly strong performance in the lettings market, bucking the usual trend where a busy property sales season often leads to a quieter time for rentals. In fact, we saw a 13% increase in activity compared to Q1 2024.
Despite some negative headlines around the upcoming Renters' Rights Bill, landlord confidence remains high. We’ve welcomed the same number of new landlords as this time last year, showing that media speculation isn't shaking long-term investment plans. It’s clear that landlords both new and established are feeling more settled as legislative changes approach.
With 157 pieces of lettings legislation (and counting!), having a knowledgeable, trusted team by your side is more important than ever. That’s why we continue to invest in every team member through external training and industry-specific qualifications. We’re here to protect your investment and guide you every step of the way. Indeed, many of our existing landlords are choosing to switch from let-only to our fully managed service, a move that ensures peace of mind and professional compliance.
If you’re unsure about the upcoming changes or want to understand how they affect you as a landlords, we encourage you to take a look at our helpful Key Conversations videos:
Key Conversations January 2025 pt.1 - The Renters’ Rights Bill.
Key Conversations January 2025 pt.2 - The Renters’ Rights Bill.
Do also please get in touch direct with any questions.
Rental Prices & Tenant Expectations
Rents are still rising, but more moderately than in 2024. The current average increase in our area is around 6%, but with more properties available and slightly reduced tenant demand, landlords must justify asking prices by keeping properties in great condition. Don’t forget, as rents rise, so do tenant expectations.
What Could Your Property Yield? Get in touch and we will tell you! Our rental appraisals are completely free.
First time landlord? Come in for a cuppa and we will chat you through all you need to know about managing a property.
Ready to Rent? Here’s What You’ll Need
We’ve noticed some tenants struggling with the referencing process, so here’s a quick checklist for prospective tenants to help ensure you have the right materials ready:
- You’ll need to prove show an annual income of 30x the monthly rent, either individually or shared across those you will be cohabitating with.
- Self-employed? Have three years of accounts ready.
- Be prepared to pass a credit check and use a free checker to see where you stand before you start the process.
- Obtain a reference from your current landlord or proof of residence.
If you’re unsure you’ll meet all the above criteria, we can help you use a guarantor, just make sure they’re also prepared to go through referencing.
Trusted People in a Regulated Market
Our lettings department boasts a dedicated team of nearly 60 professionals. This allows us to provide every landlord with a designated person at their nearest Gascoigne Halman branch, plus access to the wider expertise of our specialist team. Find your local lettings expert here - Contact Gascoigne Halman | Cheshire. High Peak. South Manchester.
