The Letting Expert

The Letting Expert

Sharing letting market insights for the benefit of landlords and tenants

* Sharing UK letting market insights and trends
* Learn how to make the most of the changing UK regulation
* Founder of Rent Happily, 100% online letting agency

26/03/2024

My latest article is a must-read for letting agents, landlords and lenders. It dispels the misunderstandings surrounding the HMO regulations in the UK and explores what can be done about it.

Follow link in comments

02/02/2024

Tenants, fret not! Residing in a shared house with an additional room and grappling with relentless rent increases from your landlord can be daunting. However, amidst the complexities of the rental market, property licensing need not be a source of concern for your landlord. In fact, it presents an excellent opportunity for them to boost their earnings while lowering the rent โ€“ a favourable outcome for all involved.

Stay tuned to me for the latest updates and insights into property matters. Do not hesitate to drop any inquiries in the comments โ€“ I'm at your service!

31/01/2024

The UK has an under-occupancy rating showing that 69% of dwellings have one or more spare bedrooms. Of these, 37% are held by single occupants or sharers, and 20.3% are in the Private Rented Sector (Census 2021). That makes over 1.28M spare bedrooms in the hands of sharers or single occupants renting in the UK. Opening up that space would benefit tenants (less rent per capita), the landlords (more revenue), the council (more property licenses), and the housing market in general (less pressure on rents, less homelessness).

Maybe it is time the Government and local councils start encouraging more sensible use of the available capacity.

29/01/2024

To contain rising rents, restore confidence in the sector, and foster harmonious relationships between landlords and tenants, do as follows:

In order to establish a harmonious and long-lasting relationship with the tenants, it is wise to consider the average rental price over the last couple of years rather than the inflated prices we experience today.

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธPut rents based on average prices, not overinflated or circumstantial peaks
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธDetermine rent at the onset, no bidding or overpricing afterwards
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธGive only individual viewings
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธGive time to each applicant to apply for the place or reject it

This is based on my latest article: https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/rental-market-survival-of-the-fittest

25/01/2024

The good news is that HMOs don't need to be rented as rooms only.

Renting HMOs as joint tenancies is beneficial to all parties:

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธSafer return for landlords than Rooms-only contracts
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธ Long-term investment beneficial for the rental sector
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธ Solves the real problem of shortage of decent homes
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธ Sustainable long-term for Tenants
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธ Less stress and costs for landlords

Shared houses are the future of renting!

24/01/2024

Property licensing is tactically formulated to protect both landlords and tenants. It promotes fair practices, enhances living standards, and applies to a broad range of privately rented properties. Landlords are obligated to meet specific criteria to maintain a safe and just rental atmosphere.

Follow me to stay abreast with news on the property market. I'm here to provide valuable insights and strategies to help you navigate these challenging times confidently.

23/01/2024

Manchester Landlords: Stepping Confidently Through the Rigorous Rental Market ๐Ÿ“ˆ

If your rental property houses an unused room, procuring the necessary license can substantially elevate your income and simultaneously lower the rent for your tenants. Property licensing unlocks more housing options and watch your revenues rise.

Remain informed of the most recent updates in the property market by following my feed. I'm dedicated to offering you valuable insights.

19/01/2024

Navigating the rental market can be a daunting task, especially with rents reaching unprecedented levels and the emergence of complex property licensing schemes. But remember, every challenge also paves the way for new opportunities!

Consider the following benefits of property licenses:

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธThey widen accommodation options for tenants. For instance, transforming a spare reception room into an extra living space.
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธThis alteration not only justifies moderate rent increases in shared houses but also revitalises landlords' financial health.
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธRent is shared among more occupants, thus easing individual tenant expenses while promoting a sense of community and affordability.

Stay in the loop with all the latest property news by following me.

17/01/2024

If your property includes an unused room, obtaining the necessary license can significantly enhance your income and simultaneously lower the rent for your tenants. Embrace property licensing, unlock more accommodation options, and witness your revenue soar.

Follow me I provide insights and practical solutions that will empower you to navigate the rental market.

15/01/2024

Living in a shared house with an extra room and facing constant rent hikes from your landlord can be tough. However, even with the challenges in the rental market, property licensing doesn't have to be a cause for worry for your landlord. In fact, it's a fantastic chance for your landlord to increase their rental income while bringing down the rent, creating a win-win situation for everyone.

Follow me for the latest property news and insights. Feel free to leave any questions in the comments โ€“ I'm here to help!

12/01/2024

Landlords fear not! Even as the rental market grapples with challenges, property licensing is far from a worry. Instead, it's an amazing chance to boost your income and simultaneously cut rents for your tenants - a mutually beneficial situation.

If you're a landlord feeling intimidated by property licensing, it's time to relax and follow my lead. Click the 'Follow' button to stay updated with industry news and insights that can help you optimise your business.

10/01/2024

Nowadays, there is virtually no difference between HMOs and Shared Houses.

Benefits of Houses in Multiple Occupations:
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธIncreased revenue for the landlord
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธReduced rent for tenants
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธJoint contracts are easier to manage than Rooms-only
๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธ Long-term tenants mean increased revenues for landlords.

Therefore, we encourage landlords to consider embracing the license and making the most of the market, responding to the huge demand by freeing available capacity. This increases the landlord's income whilst reducing the rent per capita.

The key is the rental agreement. Renting to sharers under a joint tenancy is cheaper than renting as 6 independent contracts under a Room-Only agreement.

09/01/2024

Ever considered the potential benefits of property licensing? It's an excellent avenue to boost your income while potentially reducing tenant rent - a win-win situation. As a professional in the rental market, I'm here to guide you through understanding how property licensing can transform your property rental business. With my expert advice and data-driven approach, traversing this landscape becomes a breeze.

Don't let the complexities of property licensing intimidate you. Instead, see it as an opportunity to grow and flourish in your rental ventures.

Click the 'Follow' button to stay updated with industry news and insights that can help you optimise your rental business.

05/01/2024

๐Ÿ”‘ Understanding Property Licensing: A Key to Quality Rental Management ๐Ÿ”‘

Holding the appropriate property license is not only a legal requirement but also a testament that the property is fit for occupation and managed to an exemplary standard.

So, what exactly is property licensing?

Property licensing serves as a tool for councils to reign in rogue landlords, safeguarding the health and safety of tenants and enhancing the quality of privately rented homes.

There are three distinct types of property licenses:

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธMandatory HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation) Licensing: This typically covers homes shared by 5 or more people from 2 or more households (i.e., where they are not all part of the same family), where some or all tenants share a toilet, bathroom, or kitchen.

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธAdditional HMO Licensing: This generally applies to smaller homes shared by 3 or 4 people from 2 or more households, where some or all tenants share a toilet, bathroom, or kitchen.

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธSelective Licensing: This can encompass all privately rented properties in a specific area.

Stay ahead of the curve with key insights into rental market trends. Follow me to stay updated with all the latest property news. I'm committed to offering insights and strategies to help you navigate these challenging times with confidence.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

03/01/2024

๐Ÿ”‘ Stay Competitive: Mastering The Rental Market with a Lettings Expert ๐Ÿ”‘

Maintain your competitive edge! As an experienced Lettings Expert, I am committed to aiding you in navigating and adapting to the ever-changing realm of rental laws and regulations.

I will be providing regular updates on property licensing, including when new areas are incorporated, along with valuable insights from the rental industry.

Follow me to stay up-to-date with all the latest property news and trends. I'm dedicated to providing insights and strategies to help you confidently tackle these challenging times.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

02/01/2024

๐Ÿ”‘ Landlords: Turn Property Licensing into a Revenue-Boosting Opportunity ๐Ÿ”‘

Landlords, keep your spirits high! Despite the challenges facing the rental market, property licensing should not be a point of worry. In fact, it can act as a significant opportunity to increase your earnings while simultaneously lowering rent for your tenants, establishing a mutually advantageous situation.

I will be sharing crucial insights and the latest industry news.

If you're a landlord feeling overwhelmed by the concept of property licensing, relax and follow me. Stay connected as I share the most recent updates and insights from the property industry, guiding you towards profitable property management.

Follow me to stay informed about all the latest updates in the property world. I'm here to provide valuable insights and strategies to help you navigate these challenging times with confidence.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

21/12/2023

๐Ÿ”‘ Landlords: Navigate Rental Laws with Confidence and Compliance ๐Ÿ”‘

Stay ahead of the curve! As a Lettings Expert, I'm here to help you navigate the ever-evolving rental market.

Here's how property licenses can transform your rental business:

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธExpand Housing Options: Property licenses allow for creative housing solutions. For example, converting a second reception into an additional room.

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธIncrease Revenue: This initiative opens up opportunities for reasonable rent increases in shared houses, restoring balance to your financial sheets.

๐Ÿ‘‰๏ธPromote Affordability: The secret to success? Rent is divided among more occupants. This means tenants pay less individually, creating a sense of community and affordability.

So, if you're a landlord looking to confidently navigate the intricate world of rental laws and regulations, follow me to stay updated with all the latest property news. I provide insights and strategies to help you navigate these challenging times with confidence.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

19/12/2023

๐Ÿ”‘ Oxford Landlords: Property Licensing for Your Success ๐Ÿ”‘

The new property licensing scheme might be causing some concern, but there's no need for alarm.

So, if you're a landlord in Oxford feeling perplexed by property licensing, don't hesitate to leave a comment.

Follow me to stay updated with all the latest property news. I'm here to provide insights and strategies to help you navigate these challenging times with confidence.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

18/12/2023

๐Ÿ”‘ Nottingham Landlords: Transcending Challenges in the Rental Market ๐Ÿ”‘

The current rental landscape might appear as a formidable challenge. With rents reaching new peaks and several landlords exiting the market due to apprehensions about property licensing schemes, it's completely natural if you're feeling overwhelmed. But remember, you're not navigating these waters alone! ๐Ÿ 

Property licensing is strategically designed to safeguard both landlords and tenants. It ensures fair practices, elevates living standards, and is applicable to a variety of privately rented properties. Landlords are required to adhere to certain criteria for maintaining a safe and equitable rental environment.

As your lettings Expert, I'm committed to providing you with facts to make the most of this scheme. Let's address property licensing with determination, ensuring your business continues to flourish amidst these dynamic times.

Follow me to stay abreast with news on the property market. I'm here to provide valuable insights and strategies to help you confidently navigate these challenging times.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

15/12/2023

๐Ÿ”‘ York Landlords: Tackling the Rental Market Challenges with Confidence ๐Ÿ”‘

The rental market is proving to be a challenging landscape at present. With rents hitting new heights and unsettling reports about property licensing schemes, it's completely natural if you're feeling swamped. But bear in mind every challenge also represents a potential opportunity! ๐Ÿ ๐Ÿ’ผ

Property licenses can also broaden housing options for tenants. For example, repurposing a second reception room into an additional living space.

This adjustment not only allows for sensible rent increases in shared houses but also restores balance to landlords' financial statements.

The secret to success? Rent is divided among more occupants, thus reducing individual tenant costs while fostering a sense of community and affordability.

Stay updated with all the latest property news by following me. I'm here to provide insights and strategies to help you navigate these challenging times with confidence.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

13/12/2023

๐Ÿ“ˆ London Landlords: Navigating the Demanding Rental Market with Confidence ๐Ÿ“ˆ

London landlords, take note!

If you have a spare room in your property, applying for the license can boost your revenue and reduce rent per tenant. Embrace the property license, provide more accommodation, and increase your revenues.

Stay updated with the latest property news by following me. I'm committed to providing insights and solutions to help you confidently navigate through this challenging landscape.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

11/12/2023

๐Ÿ”‘ Navigating Property Licensing: Expert Advice for Landlords ๐Ÿ”‘

Are escalating expenses keeping you awake at night? Are you worried about manoeuvring through the property licensing scheme? As a seasoned lettings expert, I'm here to reassure you - you're not alone!

Follow me for the latest property news and insights. Feel free to leave any questions in the comments โ€“ I'm here to help!

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

07/12/2023

๐Ÿ“š Property Licensing: A Revenue-Boosting Strategy for Landlords ๐Ÿ“š

Landlords, don't lose heart! While the rental market may be facing challenges, property licensing need not be a source of apprehension. On the contrary, it can serve as a tremendous opportunity to amplify your revenue while reducing rent for your tenants, creating a beneficial scenario for all involved.

So, if you're a landlord feeling daunted by property licensing, take a deep breath and follow me. Stay tuned as I share the latest property industry news and insights, guiding you towards successful property management.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

06/12/2023

๐Ÿ“Š Harness the Power of Property Licensing: A Win-Win for Landlords and Tenants Alike ๐Ÿ“Š

Have you ever contemplated the advantages of property licensing? It presents a remarkable chance to enhance your income while simultaneously decreasing rent for your tenants, thereby creating a mutually beneficial scenario. ๐Ÿ’ผ๐Ÿ 

As an expert in the lettings industry with a wealth of experience, I am here to help you comprehend how property licensing could revolutionise your business. With my professional advice and knowledge-driven approach, you can successfully navigate this terrain.

Don't be deterred by the intricacies of property licensing. Instead, view it as an opportunity to thrive and prosper with your rental properties. Click the 'Follow' button to stay updated with industry news and insights that can help you optimise your business.

How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

05/12/2023

๐ŸŽ™๏ธ Meet Boris Drappier, Lettings Expert and Champion of Successful Landlords and Tenants!๏ธ

Allow me to introduce Boris Drappier, a lettings savant with more than 15 years of industry experience. He is the driving force behind Rent Happily, a trendsetter in Bristol's letting scene.

Boris is fuelled by his passion for assisting landlords and tenants in achieving their aspirations. With an in-depth knowledge of the lettings market and a finger on the pulse of the latest regulations, he is a resource you can rely on. As a skilled negotiator, Boris is always dedicated to securing the best deal for his clients.

Read more here How to increase profits and reduce rents https://www.renthappily.co.uk/news/how-to-increase-profits-and-reduce-rents

Airbnb sub-letting call explodes into national media controversy 15/11/2023

This call by Airbnb's is dangerous for UK landlords, where the HMO regulation could kick in and ultimately cost them hefty fines.

However, as a concerted approach between landlords and tenants, renting spare rooms can reduce individual rents for tenants, increase revenues for landlords, and reduce overall pressure on rents, as explained in my recent article on the topic, see link in Comments section below.

Airbnb sub-letting call explodes into national media controversy An Airbnb survey first reported last week on Landlord Today has exploded into a national newspaper controversy.

Councils in England facing bankruptcy as lack of housing pushes up costs 09/11/2023

Councils are partly to blame for this crisis when they impose property licenses on landlords, as Hastings featured in the article. This pushes costs up and forces some landlords out of the market.

However, my agency has guided many landlords to apply the license to a T and use available space, as described in the article shown in the comments below.
Councils can also do that, it only takes some creativity.
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/oct/30/councils-in-england-facing-bankruptcy-as-lack-of-housing-pushes-up-costs?

Councils in England facing bankruptcy as lack of housing pushes up costs Budgets could be overwhelmed as evictions and rising mortgage rates cause homelessness to surge

Rent Happily - Can Rent Controls Work in Bristol? 25/10/2023

Be careful what you wish for. Rent controls backfire big time!

Rent Happily - Can Rent Controls Work in Bristol? Rent controls have more drawbacks than benefits, and experiences in the UK tell us to stay away from them. If we want to make renting cheaper for tenants, we need measures that attract landlords, not the opposite.

Sunak axes energy efficiency plans for rented homes | NRLA 27/09/2023

EPC Overhaul Scrapped!

Like myself, many agents told landlords not to hurry and wait instead, as suggested in my article earlier this year (see comments below).

Yet there was uncertainty for months, and many landlords left the sector, sending tenants into the street for nothing. We all know landlords who have sold or tenants who have been asked to leave, and I only wish this news had come out earlier, to save so much trouble in the sector.
https://www.nrla.org.uk/news/Sunak-axes-MEES-plans

Sunak axes energy efficiency plans for rented homes | NRLA Plans which would see landlords pay up to ยฃ10,000 per property for energy efficiency improvements have been axed by the Prime Minister.

22/09/2023

Landlords can increase their rental income & keep rents moderate for tenants.
Read more in the article in comments below ๐Ÿ‘‡๐Ÿ‘‡

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