Gone are the days when good references and a deposit were all it took to snag a rental property. In 2024, the UK rental market is fiercely competitive, with agents receiving a staggering 19 enquiries per available home – double the pre-pandemic average. Some areas, like Wrexham, are even hotter, with a whopping 54 enquiries per property, followed closely by Glasgow and Bristol. This intense competition is fueled by rising demand and dwindling supply, leaving renters feeling like they’re in a constant uphill battle. But don’t despair! You can still increase your chances of landing your dream home. We spoke to letting agents for their insider tips on how to stand out from the crowd.
Move Fast and Be Prepared
The key is to act quickly. Register your interest as soon as possible and be ready to sign on the dotted line. Being flexible with your move-in date can also be a huge advantage. “Proactivity is key,” says James Forrester, Managing Director of Barrows and Forrester. “You need to apply quickly and be ready to move in right away, while also demonstrating flexibility.” Make the agent or landlord’s life easier by showing them you’re a reliable and efficient tenant.
Add a Personal Touch
While there’s no need to overshare, providing some insight into your background, hobbies, and employment status can help paint a picture of you as a responsible and well-rounded individual. “This helps the landlord understand who you are and what kind of tenant you’d be,” says James. Keep it professional, though! Steer clear of mentioning late-night partying habits or a dislike of tidying up.
References Are Key
Recommendations from previous landlords can make a huge difference. “Having a positive write-up from a past landlord instantly elevates you,” says James. “A guarantor can also add extra reassurance for landlords, so if you have one, it’s definitely worth including.”
Show Genuine Interest
First impressions matter! Be on time for viewings, show genuine enthusiasm, and be respectful of the property. “We often see tenants arrive late and look bored during viewings,” says Marc von Grundherr, Director of Benham and Reeves. “Remember, it’s someone’s home you’re viewing, and showing interest can make you stand out.” It helps the landlord or agent put a face to a name, and signals that you’re a respectful individual. Even if this property isn’t the one, politeness at the viewing can pay off later on. “Don’t be afraid to fake interest if you need to,” adds Mark. “You’d be surprised how often people discard a property immediately, only to return later when it’s already been let. Sometimes, your lack of enthusiasm can put you at the back of the waiting list.”
Be Realistic about Finances
“Unfortunately, money talks in the rental market,” says James. “You need to be prepared to pay the asking price, if not more. Trying to negotiate down is unlikely to impress landlords.” While it’s tempting to negotiate, understand that many others are willing to pay the full price. You can consider starting with the asking price but expressing your openness to negotiation – it all depends on the situation.
Commit to a Longer Tenancy
Even if a higher rent isn’t an option, offering a longer tenancy agreement can be highly attractive to landlords. “Most landlords are comfortable with six-month initial leases, but don’t be afraid to ask for longer,” says Mark. “Committing to a longer agreement shows you’re serious and prevents them from having to find new tenants, making it a win-win.”
Manage Expectations
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might not get the property. It could be another candidate’s charisma, the landlord’s specific needs, or even simply a higher offer. Ultimately, finances often play a significant role. “It often comes down to paperwork, good credit, and sufficient income,” says James. Ensure you have documents prepared, a deposit saved, and remember that a bad credit score or unstable income can be a dealbreaker. If you keep facing rejection, consider expanding your search area or looking for cheaper options. The current rental market is challenging, but keep trying! The right home is out there for you.
