The Five Core Factors That Truly Determine Your Property’s Value in 2025

In an ever-changing housing market, knowing what really determines your home’s value is more important than ever. Whether you're contemplating a move, refinancing, or simply want to understand your investment better, being aware of how your property's worth is measured puts you in a stronger position.

Too many homeowners rely on guesswork or general trends without recognising that property valuation is nuanced, local, and shaped by more than just square footage. In this post, we break down the five most influential factors shaping residential property values in 2025 — with practical insight you can act on.

1. Local Supply and Demand: The Market Balancer

At its core, your home’s value is guided by a simple principle: what buyers are willing to pay. And that willingness is heavily influenced by local supply and demand.

What to Understand:

Key Takeaway:

Check how many properties like yours are on the market in your immediate area. Are they selling quickly? Are prices climbing or being reduced? This intel helps you gauge demand accurately.

2. Comparable Sales (Comps): The True Benchmark

Valuers rely on what’s known as ‘comps’ — recent sales of similar properties nearby — to estimate your home’s worth. But this isn’t about vague averages.

What Comps Include:

Real-World Example:

A 3-bedroom semi in good condition on a quiet cul-de-sac might fetch far more than an identical one on a busy road, even if both are in the same postcode.

Key Takeaway:

Recent nearby sales are your best guide. Use property portals, but better still, speak to a local agent who knows which properties actually completed and at what price.

3. Condition and Presentation: First Impressions Count

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s still true: presentation matters. The condition of your home, inside and out, can swing its value by thousands.

Small Changes, Big Gains:

Curb Appeal:

Buyers form strong impressions before they even step inside. A smart entrance, clean windows, and a weed-free driveway can do wonders.

Key Takeaway:

You don’t need to spend a fortune. Thoughtful, targeted improvements show your home is cared for — and that resonates with buyers.

4. Unique Features and Upgrades: Value Boosters

Not all upgrades are equal. But when done well, certain additions can push your home into a higher price bracket.

Features That Add Real Value:

What to Watch:

Be mindful of over-improving for your area. A top-tier renovation in a mid-range neighbourhood might not return its full cost.

Key Takeaway:

Enhancements should align with what buyers in your area want and expect. Focus on functional, in-demand features.

5. Timing and Market Sentiment: When You Sell Matters

You could do everything right — stage your home beautifully, make smart upgrades — but if you sell at the wrong time, you may miss out.

When Is the Market Strongest?

Economic Factors:

Interest rate changes, inflation, and national events (e.g., general elections) can all influence buyer confidence.

Key Takeaway:

If you're not in a rush, time your sale with care. Monitor local trends and speak to a trusted local agent for advice on when your type of property is in highest demand.

Bonus Factor: Buyer Psychology in 2025

The past few years have changed what people look for in a home:

Understanding buyer psychology allows you to position your home accordingly, highlighting relevant features and making upgrades that matter.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge is Power

Understanding your home’s value isn’t about following the news or trusting a one-size-fits-all estimate. It’s about:

Even if you’re not selling yet, these insights help you:

The housing market may shift, but the fundamentals of value stay remarkably consistent. Keep an eye on them, and you’ll always be ahead of the curve.

Ready to take the next step? Click here to explore our consultation options and connect with one of our property experts today.

Maximising Your Rental Appeal in a Competitive Market

Being compliant with legislation is essential. But if your property isn’t attractive to tenants, it won’t matter how up to date your certificates are — it could still sit empty.

With the rental market growing more competitive and tenants becoming more discerning, landlords must look beyond basic functionality and ask: “Would I want to live here?”

In this guide, we explore practical, cost-effective ways to maximise your rental property’s appeal — not just to fill it quickly, but to secure high-quality tenants who stay longer and treat the home as their own.

Why Presentation Matters More Than Ever

Tenant expectations have risen. Thanks to online portals, tenants can compare dozens of listings in minutes. If your property looks tired or dated, it may be skipped over — no matter how fairly it’s priced.

Great presentation isn’t about luxury. It’s about clean, modern, comfortable spaces that look cared for.

Benefits of investing in appeal include:

Easy Wins That Make a Big Impact

1. Fresh Paint in Neutral Colours: A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest ways to transform a room. Stick to modern, light neutrals like soft greys or off-whites. These brighten spaces and help tenants visualise living there.

2. Upgrade Light Fixtures: Old, yellowed fixtures date a property instantly. Swapping them for simple, modern designs improves both appearance and energy efficiency.

3. Flooring Matters: Worn carpets or chipped vinyl can turn tenants away. Consider durable laminate in high-traffic areas, and keep flooring consistent throughout to create flow.

4. Clean and Tidy Outdoor Space: Whether it’s a small yard, garden, or balcony — tidy it up. Remove weeds, jet wash paths, and add low-maintenance plants. A usable outdoor space is a major bonus.

5. Kitchen and Bathroom Touch-Ups: You don’t need to replace everything. Re-grout tiles, replace sealant, install new cabinet handles, or upgrade taps. Small updates here can completely refresh the space.

6. Boost Broadband Readiness: Fast, reliable internet is a necessity, not a luxury. If fibre is available, make sure it’s installed or at least ready to go.

7. Increase Security: Modern tenants value safety. Install robust locks, consider a video doorbell, and ensure external lighting is functional. These upgrades also help you meet insurance criteria.

Modern Living Expectations

Today’s tenants are looking for more than just a roof over their heads. Consider how your property stacks up against the following expectations:

Staging for Marketing Photos

Online first impressions matter. Many landlords undervalue the power of a good photo. You don’t need a professional shoot (although it helps), but you should:

Great photos attract more enquiries, reduce time on the market, and can justify a slightly higher rent.

Tenant Communication and Responsiveness

A landlord’s reputation travels fast, especially via online reviews or tenant groups. Being approachable, responsive, and fair goes a long way.

Key habits that improve appeal:

A good property manager or letting agent can help maintain this standard, especially if you’re managing multiple properties.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Mistake #1: Over personalising the Decor- Avoid bold wallpaper or colours. Keep things neutral to appeal to the widest audience.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Smells- Lingering odours from pets, smoke, or damp can be deal-breakers. Deep clean and ventilate well before viewings.

Mistake #3: Overpricing- Setting rent too high might leave the property sitting vacant. Check comparable listings and aim for market value.

Mistake #4: Underinvesting in Maintenance- A single dripping tap or broken blind can suggest you don’t care about the property. Fix minor issues before advertising.

Longer-Term Appeal Strategies

Energy Efficiency Improvements: Not only does this help with compliance, but it also saves tenants money — making your property more desirable. EPC rating C is fast becoming the new standard.

Quality Fixtures: Invest in long-lasting fittings (especially in kitchens and bathrooms). They wear better and reduce maintenance.

Flexible Tenancy Terms: Offering options for furnished/unfurnished or accommodating pets can increase your tenant pool.

Modern Tech: Smart meters, video doorbells, or USB charging sockets add modern convenience at low cost.

Final Thoughts: Think Like a Tenant

Maximising appeal isn’t about overspending. It’s about smart presentation, good maintenance, and keeping up with what modern renters actually want.

Put yourself in a tenant’s shoes. Would you be happy to move in tomorrow? If not, fix what’s holding your property back.

In a competitive rental market, landlords who invest in appeal enjoy:

Don’t wait until the property sits empty. Start enhancing its appeal today — and reap the benefits tomorrow.

Ready to take the next step? Click here to explore our consultation options and connect with one of our property experts today.

UK Rental Market Update: Insights into the Current Landscape

Welcome to our Property Market blog, where we provide you with comprehensive insights into the current trends shaping the UK housing market. In this edition, we'll dive into key headlines of the current Rental Market - including supply and demand dynamics, challenges faced by investors, rental growth versus earnings, and regional snapshots. Let's explore the latest findings!

 

- Annual rental inflation for new lets in the UK remains high at an average of 11%, slightly down from 12.3% in mid-2022.

- Rental growth continues to outpace earnings growth, raising concerns about affordability for renters.

- The demand for rental properties remains significantly higher than the five-year average, while the supply of privately rented homes in Great Britain has seen a minimal 1% increase over five years.

 

Supply and Demand Imbalance:

- The stock of homes available for rent is 33% below the five-year average, highlighting the significant supply and demand imbalance.

- According to the recent ARLA Propertymark Report, the demand for rental properties recorded by member agents in April 2023 was 24% higher than the previous year, further exacerbating the supply shortage.

- Factors such as rapid growth in overseas students and high net immigration contribute to sustained demand for rental properties. This follows the Government shake-up of Visa rules in 2021 to help attract more skilled workers to the UK.

 

Challenges for Investors:

- The number of privately rented homes has only increased by 1% since 2016, as new investment is offset by properties leaving the rental sector.

- Tax changes, growing regulations, higher borrowing costs, and tighter lending criteria have prompted landlords to reassess their portfolios and investment strategies.

- Mortgage rates have increased, impacting the equity or deposit levels required for new buy-to-let purchases, along with stricter lending criteria and stress tests.

 

Rental Growth and Existing Tenancies:

- Existing tenancies have seen rental increases at an average of 4.4%, significantly lower than the market average for new tenancies.

- Landlords are encouraged to review their rents periodically, especially considering challenges such as tax changes and higher mortgage rates, as rent increases can positively impact investments.

 

Breakdown of the Private Rental Market:

- The core private rented sector, comprising long-term lets, accounts for 66% of the market, offering lower hassle and workload.

- Sub-sectors such as holiday and short lets or HMOs may provide higher yields but come with additional costs, workload, and regulations.

 

Regional Snapshot:

- In the West Midlands region, average rents have seen a year-on-year increase of just under 10%, with Birmingham ranking among the top five cities for rental growth.

- Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Nottingham also demonstrate strong growth in rental prices.

 

Conclusion:

The UK rental market continues to experience robust demand, outpacing earnings growth and raising concerns about affordability. The supply shortage persists, presenting challenges for both tenants and landlords. Investors face changing dynamics, including higher mortgage rates and stricter lending criteria. Regular rent reviews are encouraged to ensure investments remain financially viable.

Thank you for reading our Rental Market Update blog. If you are a landlord or property investor and would like some advice or to share your views, please contact me anytime...

 

Ali Durrant MARLA

Director of Concentric Sales & Lettings 

ali@concentricproperty.co.uk

UK Sales Market Update

Welcome to our Property Market blog, where we provide you with insightful information on the latest trends in the housing market. In this edition, we'll focus on the sales market, highlighting key statistics and offering valuable insights for both buyers and sellers.

 

1. Transaction Stats:

In January 2023, there was a 10% reduction in property sales recorded year on year, while new home purchases saw a 9% rise in completions. Mortgage approvals experienced a significant 46% reduction, with gross lending down approximately 7%. The decrease in mortgage approvals from the second half of the previous year largely explains the significant difference in lending statistics.

 

2. Buyer Demand:

According to the latest ARLA Housing Insight Report, there was a 30% fall in the number of prospective buyers registered across member branches in April 2023 compared to April 2022. Additionally, member branches reported a 70% increase in properties available for sale year-on-year. These figures indicate a drop in buyer demand, likely influenced by higher mortgage rates and economic challenges affecting affordability.

 

3. Market Activity and Pricing:

Rightmove reported that agreed sales numbers are currently just 3% behind the pre-pandemic market of 2019. The average price of properties coming to the market experienced a 1.8% month-on-month increase in May, reflecting robust activity levels and confidence. Sales agreed in May showed positive growth, and the level of negotiation from the asking price to the sale agreed price remained steady at around 3%.

 

4. Mortgage Rates and Affordability:

Despite an increase in the Bank of England base rate, mortgage rates have remained steady. The average 5-year fixed rate with a 15% deposit is now 4.56%, significantly lower than the 5.89% recorded last October. This decrease in mortgage rates contributes to maintaining home mover confidence in the market outlook.

 

5. House Price Growth and Market Activity:

The Zoopla house price index reveals a year-on-year price growth of 1.9%, the lowest in recent times compared to the 9.6% recorded a year ago. Prices have fallen by an average of 1.3% in the last 6 months due to higher mortgage rates and rising living costs. However, buyer confidence has improved, resulting in an increase in sales agreed, primarily driven by falling mortgage rates during the Spring.

 

Regional Property Price Movements:

The West Midlands region has seen year-on-year price growth of 3.5%, surpassing the national average of 1.9%. Birmingham ranks second among major cities, with a growth rate of 3.8%, just behind Nottingham at 3.9%. These figures indicate a significant difference compared to last April when the year-on-year price increase approached 10%.

 

The Outlook for the Sales Market:

Market activity in the UK sales market remains comparable to pre-pandemic levels. However, predictions suggest that mortgage rates may increase in the second half of the year, impacting affordability and pricing. It is anticipated that the year-end may see approximately 20% fewer transactions than the previous year. Sensible and realistic pricing is crucial for sellers, while buyers should not be discouraged as long as the numbers align. As the year progresses, increased stock levels may provide negotiation opportunities.

 

Conclusion:

The UK sales market demonstrates resilience, with activity levels approaching pre-pandemic norms. Understanding market dynamics, considering pricing strategies, and staying updated on mortgage rate changes are vital for both buyers and sellers. Seek professional advice and remain adaptable to navigate the ever-evolving property market successfully.

Thank you for reading

The Must-Known Legislation To Let A Property Compliantly

Landlords, are you aware of the two main pieces of legislation that you need to comply with to remain safe and compliant? 

In the ever-changing private rented sector, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest laws and regulations that govern this space. However, failing to meet the government’s requirements can result in serious consequences in the form of; notices, fines and prosecution.

That’s why we at Concentric Sales and Lettings are focused on helping you get the compliance information you need on all aspects of Landlord law. In this blog, we’re going to dive deeper into the two pieces of landlord legislation designed to ensure the safety of your tenants within your private rented properties. These two laws are The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the more recent Homes for Fitness & Habitation Act 2020.

 

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985

Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 details a landlord’s obligation for repairs. Simply put, as a Landlord, you must ensure the safety of your rented properties.

Specifically, you must ensure that the air, space, water, and heating of the property are properly maintained and kept safe. The law also clearly states that you must carry out repairs on your properties as and when they are due. 

This brings up the question – when are repairs due? 

The legislation states that repairs should be carried out on a “reasonable timescale” based on when you are first notified of the repair requirement. “Reasonable” is somewhat subjective and difficult to define but generally depends on factors such as (a) whether or not the tenant is living in the property and (b) whether or not the severity of the repair warrants an urgent response.

Major repairs (as in water gushing through a ceiling) are required to be acted upon immediately. You, as a Landlord, should take all reasonable steps to carry out any maintenance work or repairs to the best of your ability. Some repairs may take time to be rectified, but as long as you have taken the steps that you can take, the law will consider it reasonable. 

 

Protect Yourself Against Claims

We recommend that you always act as quickly as possible when carrying out repairs for your tenants. This is not just for the comfort of your tenants within your rented property. It is also one of the best ways to protect yourself from potential claims that the tenant may choose to pursue against you. 

Under the law, tenants have the right to report any outstanding maintenance issues to the local authority. The council may then decide to carry out a full inspection which can often lead to a much longer list of repairs. 

It’s important to remember that you are not the only person given responsibilities under Section 11. Tenants are also obligated to “behave in a tenant-like manner”, meaning that they are required to take care of the normal maintenance activities that keep the property clean and functional. This includes things like changing lightbulbs, keeping the drains clear, cleaning the gutters, and other similar activities. Now that we’ve covered the first piece of legislation for landlords let’s cover the second, more recent law. 

 

Homes for Fitness & Habitation Act 2020

This law does not replace the one we’ve discussed but creates additional rights and responsibilities. Generally, it focuses on areas that are not necessarily covered under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. There are two key factors you should be aware of when it comes to this law. 

First, this act gives tenants the right, for the first time, to take a Landlord to court for not maintaining their repairing obligations. The government has removed the requirement to first go to the local authorities and has enabled the tenant to go directly to the courts. Landlords must be aware of this change.

Secondly, Landlords are now responsible for hazards and repairs within communal areas throughout the tenancy. You are obligated from the moment the tenancy begins through to the conclusion of the tenancy to ensure that the property is fit for human habitation at all times. The only way to achieve this is through regularly inspecting the property. You must not rely on tenants to report repairs because they do not always do so. 

 

Final Thoughts

Your main focus as a Landlord should be to ensure that your tenants are safe at all times. Failure to comply with these laws can result in; prosecution by the tenant in court, penalties issued by the local authority, fines, and improvement notices that can restrict your right to gain possession of your property. 

With over 170 different pieces of legislation regulating the private rented sector, you may be wondering how to be compliant as a Landlord. 

Fortunately, we have created several resources to help you stay safe, compliant, and up-to-date. That’s why we run a quarterly webinar hosted by Dawn Benett, where we spend 2 hours diving deep into various pieces of legislation that you need to know about. Click here to register for FREE today!

Should Your Address Be On A Tenancy Agreement?

Landlords, did you know that there are over 170 separate pieces of legislation that directly impact the private rented sector? Here at Concentric, one of our big goals is to help educate you to be able to navigate this maze of rules and regulations so that you can stay safe and compliant. 

While you may prefer not to share your residential address with your tenants, did you know that there are laws that govern whether or not you are permitted to withhold your address? The two main rules that apply to your address are Section 47 and Section 48 of the Landlord and Tenant Act (1985). Let’s get into them. 

 

What Section 47 Means To Your Tenancy Agreements

Let’s start with Section 47. Section 47 of the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1985 states that a landlord’s address must be present on all documents that are, in fact, a demand for payment. The document that most commonly falls within the purview of this legislation is your tenancy agreement. This means that you, as a landlord, have a legal obligation to include your residential address on your tenancy agreement. Is your address present on your agreement currently? If not, you could be falling foul of this regulation. What does this mean? 

Your tenants are not legally liable or responsible to pay any rent they may owe you until you have shared your residential address. The law is clear. If you’re using an agent, you are not permitted to use your agent’s address. Rather, the address on the agreement must be the landlord’s residential address, wherever that is in the world. The reason this legislation applies to the tenancy agreement is that it is, in the eyes of the law, a demand for payment. Until and when you have provided your residential address, the tenant does not legally have to pay. It makes sense that you, as a landlord, may feel some reservations about having to share your home address with your tenants. However, in the private rented sector, this is a given right that the tenants have been legally granted. Section 47 grants tenants the right to identify the person from whom they are renting. 

Moreover, if the tenant makes a formal demand, in writing, to you as the landlord or your agent, each party is obligated to respond to that request within 21 days. As we have already mentioned, failure to supply the information within that timeframe could result in the tenant refusing to pay rent until the information requested has been provided. In that situation, the tenant would be in their full legal rights to withhold payment from you, the landlord. 

 

Why You Need To Know About Section 48

The other significant rule that impacts whether or not a landlord must share their address is Section 48 of the same law. Again, this section focuses entirely on the landlord’s address. However, in this case, the legislation refers to an address being given to a tenant in England or Wales for the sole purpose of serving notice to that tenant. In this case, landlords have more flexibility, as the address can be that of your agent or your place of business, depending only on your preference. If you are a company landlord, then the address to provide tenants, under this section, would be the registered address of the business.

Ultimately, these sections of the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1985 do not carry penalties or fines if you are in violation. However, that does not mean that they are inconsequential. The ultimate penalty could be that your tenant simply chooses not to pay the rent. In that event, the law would not require the tenant to pay until the residential address of the landlord was provided. 

 

Conclusion

To recap, Section 47 places a clear obligation on landlords to provide their residential address to their tenants on their tenancy agreement and on any other documents that are payment requests. Section 48 requires that landlords share their business address (or the address of their agent) when serving notice to tenants, only when the tenants reside within England or Wales. 

We hope that you’ve found this information useful. It’s important to always stay informed about legislation so that you can remain in compliance and continue to serve your tenants. If you’re curious about where you can get more information on the latest and most important legislative updates, our very own Dawn Bennett hosts a quarterly webinar where she drills down into a variety of the many pieces of legislation that apply to our industry. 

What you need to know about the immigration act 2016 (2022 changes)

Are you aware of the changes that were made to the Immigration Act 2016 that just came into force in April 2022? The laws surrounding the private rented sector are changing all the time. As a landlord, it can be difficult to keep up with the many hundreds of different laws. However, you understand that there can be serious consequences if you fail to do so. Lettings law is serious. Here at Concentric Sales and Lettings, our goal is to help you by keeping you up to date with all the changes. We’re here to give you the knowledge and practical tips you need to always remain compliant.

So, without further ado, let’s get into the Immigration Act and the 2022 changes.

 

What is the Immigration Act of 2016?

The Immigration Act is a piece of legislation that applies to landlords and letting agents and came into force in England on February 1, 2016. The goal of the law is to ensure that properties are not rented to tenants or occupiers who do not possess a right to rent in the UK. Specifically, the legislation states that a landlord and/or a letting agent must be able to prove any occupier’s right to reside within the property throughout the tenancy. This means that landlords must check that any tenant or occupier within the property has the right to rent in the UK before the tenancy starts. This law applies to every adult who is 18 or more years old and who is living within the property, whether they are named on the tenancy or not. 

How to verify the right to rent

The most important part of the Immigration Act is the requirement that you verify your tenant’s right to rent in the UK. You mustn't discriminate when checking the occupant’s right to rent. Ask each of your tenants, regardless of their backgrounds, to provide the same evidence – namely, that they have the right to reside on the property. The easiest way to prove the right to reside in the UK is by presenting a passport. If it is a UK passport, you have all the evidence you need to prove that the tenant has the right to rent for the duration of the tenancy. If your tenant is from the EU, the process is a little different. In this case, their right to rent can be verified through the government website online. To do this, all you need to do is ask for a share code from the tenant or occupier. Using this code, along with their full name and date of birth, you can conduct an online rent check. Here is where you can do that. Finally, if your occupier is from outside the EU, other documentation will be required to verify their right to rent. Often, tenants from outside the EU prove their right to rent by showing a passport with a supporting Visa that shows the data the tenant or the occupier entered the UK and the expiry date of their visa. For any tenant or occupier that has a limited time to remain, you are required by law to conduct a follow-up check after completing the original right-to-rent check. The follow-up will need to be carried out either upon the date that the visa expires or 12 months after you carried out the initial check, whichever comes last. What this means is that you could, in theory, legally move a tenant into a property today, when their visa expires tomorrow. This wouldn’t be a violation of the law, but it might not make sense for you as a landlord. Therefore, you need to consider all the facts about a tenant’s right to rent before starting the tenancy. Some tenants may not be able to fulfil the fixed term of their tenancy. 

Landlords must keep documentation and evidence that the right-to-rent checks were carried out at the start of the tenancy. Also, landlords should keep records of any follow-up checks that were conducted while the tenant or occupier was living on the property. Finally, the right-to-rent requirements apply to all occupiers as well, so we recommend conducting further checks to ensure that no unauthorised occupants are living on the property.

Two big changes in 2022

Originally, the Immigration Act required these right-to-rent checks to be held face-to-face. However, due to recent events, for the past two years, we have been able to conduct right-to-rent checks via video call. The first big change to the act is that this amendment has been extended to the 30th of September 2022. The second big change is the alterations that have been made regarding biometric residence permits. Biometric residence permits are documentation that we have now used for many years for any tenant or occupier that has a set amount of time to reside. Based on the 2022 changes, these documents are no longer sufficient to demonstrate a right to rent in the UK. Tenants or occupiers that rely on these permits will also need to provide a share code just like EU nationals so that you, as the landlord, can verify their right to rent online. 

Stay compliant, stay safe

Although landlords are not immigration officers, this law is an essential piece of property law that you must comply with. This regulation carries with it fines of up to £3,000 per occupier and, potentially, a prison sentence. However, by ensuring that you are checking both your tenants and occupiers for their right to rent in the UK, you can remain safe and compliant. The Immigration Act of 2016 is just one piece of legislation in our private rented sector that you as a landlord should be aware of. If you’d like to learn more, feel free to join our FREE quarterly webinar hosted by our very own Dawn Bennett, where you can get more detailed information about the laws and regulations that you need to know.

 

Landlords Heading To Liverpool As The City Property Market Booms

A new report has revealed Liverpool is the place to buy for landlords – but anyone looking to add to their portfolio should act quickly, as property prices are on the up faster there than in other locations.

The report (commissioned by London’s Beauchamp Estates and Liverpool’s Logic Estates, with analysis by Dataloft) describes the city as a ‘regional powerhouse’, stating residential property prices have risen more quickly than anywhere else in the last five years – including the capital.

But this surge shouldn’t deter potential investors, because prices there are still affordable compared to other key locations. The report looks at the Liverpool Waterfront, where an average-priced apartment would cost just under £240 per square foot. This compares to around £353 (per square foot) for a similarly well-positioned property down the road in Manchester and £678 (per square foot) in London.

Buy-to-let landlords are also collecting higher rental yields – with an average of 6.4% across all apartments in Liverpool, compared to 5.5% in Manchester and 4.5% in London (of the cities included in the survey, only Leeds saw a higher rental yield for all apartments, sitting at 6.7%).

And there are also seemingly more renters to attract – 55% of the city’s population live in private rented accommodation, compared to 27% in the capital and 17% across England as a whole.

However, while this report extols the virtues of buying in Liverpool, it’s worth noting that there are multiple favourable locations which have emerged as key investment hotspots in recent reports.

The Buy To Let City Tracker research undertaken by Aldermore Bank saw Bristol top the list of best places to purchase an investment property, based on indicators including average total rent, short and long-term returns, percentage of vacant housing stock, and number of renters.

Second place was Oxford, with Cambridge coming third, followed by Manchester and Luton to complete the top five.

And in a third piece of research – this time conducted by Compare the Market – Birmingham topped a list of the 20 best places to be a landlord in the UK, with Bradford, Coventry, Bolton and Burnley also making it into the top five.

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards You Must Comply With As A Landlord

As landlords, there are so many different laws, regulations, and standards that you need to comply with to avoid penalties. Plus, new legislation is constantly being added, further increasing the complexity of this space. Here at Concentric Sales and Lettings, we’re here to help guide you through the maze of rules and get you the information you need to stay safe, compliant, and up-to-date. 

Speaking of compliance, does your property/tenancy have an EPC rating of “E” or above? As a landlord, are you confident that your properties are compliant with the minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES)? In this article, we dive into what these energy efficiency requirements mean for you. 

What Are MEES?

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) first came into force in 2018. The standards focus on the energy efficiency of your property. Energy efficiency refers to the ability to use less energy to get the same amount of work done. With a higher energy efficiency rating, your property means that less energy is wasted and also can reduce energy costs for your property. 

What Does This Mean For You As A Landlord? 

The main MEES requirement for landlords is that any property that you own and rent out needs to have an energy rating of “E” or above. If your property falls below an “E” rating and you are not in receipt of an exemption, you are illegally renting out your property and could be subject to fines and penalties. The government expects landlords to spend a maximum of £3,500 to ensure that their properties are compliant. 

What If My Property Cannot Be Made Compliant? 

In the case that you are renting out a property that is not and cannot be made compliant, then we would recommend you head over to the government website and see if your property falls into one of the categories that are exempted from the energy efficiency requirements. 

You must be prepared to meet these standards. There is talk within the industry that the MEES will be higher in 2025 than it is now. It is currently being proposed that landlords’ properties will have to be a “C” rating or above. This could have a huge effect on many landlords. Fortunately, various funding opportunities are available to you as landlords and tenants right now and maybe more in the future too. We recommend seeking out that funding so that you can offset the costs that may accrue as a result of bringing your property into compliance. 

The EPC Requirement

Part of the MEES is the EPC requirement. The term “EPC” is short for energy performance certificate. It is part of the government’s rating scheme to describe the energy efficiency of buildings and properties. The ratings range from “A” (very efficient) down to “G” (inefficient). The EPC rating is how you as a landlord prove that your property complies with MEES. Providing a tenant with a valid EPC before the start of the tenancy is required under the Deregulation Act of 2015. Failure to provide them with a valid EPC would restrict your ability to serve a valid notice on them for possession of the property should the need arise. So although this piece of legislation may not seem that important, you need to ensure that you comply. 

The Penalties For Failure To Comply With This Piece Of Legislation Are Hefty, With A Maximum Fine Of £5000 Per Property

The size of this fine depends on the time that you let the property non-compliantly. EPCs are valid for ten years and, on average, cost less than £100. This means that for less than £10 per year, you could avoid that penalty and ensure that your property complies with the MEES regulations. Fortunately, it is also easy to get an EPC as there are EPC assessors in your area that can be found online and can carry out the job for you to ensure that your property is compliant and safe. It’s important to remember that funding is available at the moment for both landlords and tenants, so please be sure that you are researching any local funding within your area to improve the energy efficiency of your property. This will also help you to prepare yourself for the even higher requirements that may be coming in 2025. 

Always Remain Compliant

We hope you’ve found this post informative and enlightening. If you want to learn more, check out our YouTube channel, where we help keep you up-to-date on the latest and most important legislation for the private rented sector. There are over 170 pieces of legislation that you as a landlord need to comply with. That’s why we offer a free, quarterly webinar hosted by our very own Dawn Bennett, where you can get more details on all these different kinds of legislation. We’d love to see you there! 

Are You Using The Correct Tenancy Agreement?

There are two kinds of tenancy agreements. Do you know which agreement applies to yours? Many landlords aren’t sure of the difference between the various tenancy agreements and how to choose the correct one that works for them. At Concentric, our goal is to help you understand the facts and get you the information you need to be a successful landlord. We've written this blog to help you know which tenancy agreement is best for you.

Let us break down what the two categories of tenancy agreements are and where they can be implemented to work for you appropriately. 

There can be serious consequences for you if you attempt to use the wrong legal contract for a tenancy. So it's important you get the right one. 

 

Assured Shorthold Tenancy

The assured shorthold tenancy agreement is one of the most common agreements and was introduced in 1988 when the Housing Act was passed. This contractual agreement is beneficial to both tenants and landlords as it clearly outlines what each party can and cannot do.

For example, tenants can be assured of security of tenure for the fixed term of the contract, providing they do nothing to breach it. On the other hand, landlords are provided with two specific notes: Section 8 and Section 21. These notes can be used to gain possession should the need arise. In order for a property to qualify for an assured shorthold tenancy agreement, there are three specific criteria. 

1. The tenant must be an individual.

2. The landlord must not be a resident at the property

3. The property must be the tenant’s home

For the first rule, the tenant must not be a corporation or a trust. This means that if a tenant is a company, they will not qualify for this type of tenancy agreement. The second rule is clear enough; you as a landlord must not live in the property. Finally, the tenant must reside at the 

property as their primary home. In other words, an individual purchasing a number of properties for investment purposes would not qualify for this assured shorthold tenancy agreement.

 

Non-Housing Act Agreement Tenancy

Non-Housing Act Agreements are the other main category of tenancy contracts. This is a general catch-all term for all the contracts that fall outside those three main criterias. These tenancy agreements are an entirely different breed as there is far less legislation to consider. For example, if you have a company that would like to become a tenant, you would need to use a non-housing act agreement. 

Now, let’s get into the details of what makes these two different. 

 

The Difference Between Them

There are several variances between these two main agreements that you as a landlord need to know. First of all, non-housing act agreements allow you as a landlord to disregard several key pieces of legislation. For example, the requirement to register deposits is not applicable for non-housing act agreements. For any tenancy agreement like this, did you know that you don’t need to register the deposit?

Also, the tenant fee ban is not applicable, so there is no deposit cap. The laws banning fees are also not applicable, meaning that you can charge your tenant a referencing fee, admin fee, or late payment fees.

As a landlord, you may have times when you are forced to take possession of a property. At these times, it’s important to understand the tenancy agreement you are tied to. There is a completely different process between a housing act agreement and a non-housing act agreement. Basically, in a non-housing act agreement tenancy, the landlord can simply let the tenant know at the end of the fixed term that the tenancy is over. This terminates the tenancy, which then goes into a rolling contract. At this point, the landlord simply gives notice to quit within a minimum period of 4 weeks. As you should be able to see from this, tenancies that fall outside the Housing Act offer landlords many more opportunities and leave them with a bit more flexibility to act.

 

Be Careful To Use The Right Agreement

It is important to always ensure you are using the correct tenancy agreement. Despite all of the benefits of using non-housing act contracts, you shouldn’t think that you can use those when the criteria for an Assured Shorthold Tenancy is met. As a landlord, you must abide by the Housing Act if it applies to your tenancy. From the perspective of the law, your tenancy will be looked at regardless of the contract you signed as being either an Assured Shorthold Tenancy or not, based on those criteria. 

We recommend keeping all these things in mind when selecting your tenants so that you know from the first what kind of agreement you are getting yourself into. Always ensure that you use the correct contract for every scenario. We at Concentric are always looking for ways to provide help and advice to landlords so that they can better manage their properties.

We’ve got tons of content available to assist you with practical step-by-step guidance on legislative updates and the issues that matter for landlords. We even host a quarterly online seminar that you can join!

Reserve your space for our next Legislation Update Webinar for free here.