What 2025’s market shift means for your portfolio — and the 3 things you need to do before May
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Welcome to 2026. The rental market rebalanced significantly in 2025 — supply increased, tenant demand eased, and rent growth slowed. For landlords, this shift creates both opportunities and risks. With the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force in May, now is the time to position your portfolio strategically. This update gives you the market context, legislative deadlines, and practical actions to navigate the year ahead. |
📊 The Market Context You NeedONS (Nov 2025): Average UK rent reaches £1,366 per month Annual rent growth slowed to 4.4% as the market rebalanced. Supply increased c.15% year-on-year while tenant demand eased — creating a more competitive lettings environment. Time to let averaged around 17 days nationally. Sources: ONS Price Index of Private Rents; Zoopla Rental Market Report (Dec 2025) |
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💰 Question 1: Should You Raise Rent in 2026?
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The short answer: probably, but strategically. With rent growth at 4.4% and inflation moderating, modest increases are still justifiable — but pushing too hard risks longer void periods in a more competitive market. Here’s how to approach it:
Our recommendation: Review each tenancy individually. We can provide local comparables and help you strike the balance between income optimisation and tenant retention. |
⏱️ Question 2: How Do You Minimise Void Periods in 2026?
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With more supply competing for tenants, speed and presentation matter more than ever. Across 824 properties we advertised in 2025, we proved that efficiency beats volume. Here’s what worked:
Practical steps to reduce your void risk:
Platform data: Internal analytics across 824 properties advertised (2025) |
⚖️ Question 3: Are You Ready for the Renters’ Rights Act?
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The biggest legislative shift in a generation begins 1 May 2026 Royal Assent received Oct 2025. These aren’t theoretical changes — they’re legal requirements with penalties for non-compliance.
Source: Gov.uk Implementation Roadmap |
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Bottom Line 2026 favours landlords who are proactive, compliant, and strategic. The market has rebalanced, but professional management still makes the difference between profitable lettings and costly voids. With legislative changes incoming, now is the time to review your position. |
⭐ Recent Success Stories
Possession Case: Legal Support When It MattersWhen a tenant stopped paying rent, our Finance & Administration Manager guided the landlord through Section 8 proceedings — resulting in full possession and arrears recovery. “The presence of LettingaProperty.com was very reassuring. Natalie was able to recognise legal jargon I may not really understand…” — Mr O., Bromley Outcome: Possession awarded; £3,600 arrears recovered. |
Long-Term Partnership: Decade of Stress-Free Management“I have worked with lettingaproperty for more than a decade… their professionalism, diligence and reliability have been the backbone of a genuinely stress-free experience.” — KVC |
First-Time Landlord: Expert Guidance“I found the process overwhelming but Abby and lettingaproperty made the whole thing easy and painless.” — Megan, New Landlord (Dec 2025) |
Need Help With Your 2026 Strategy?Let’s discuss your portfolio positioning, rent reviews, and legislative compliance before the May deadline.
Or call us on 0333 577 8888 | |
