Forget fancy kitchens – it’s the basics that matter to today’s renters! New data reveals what they won’t budge on, giving you the edge in this competitive market.

The latest stats from Barclays Property Insights show that while rent increases are slowing down, renters are becoming more demanding. It’s not just about the price anymore – they’re looking for quality and comfort.

Here’s the top 10 things renters won’t compromise on:

1. No Damp or Mould: 46% of renters said this is a deal-breaker. No one wants to live in a damp, mouldy nightmare, and this is the biggest red flag for potential tenants.
2. A Proper Living Room: 34% of renters need a space to relax and unwind. A separate living room is essential for many.
3. Outdoor Space: 32% of renters said they need a garden or balcony. Outdoor space is a real winner, whether it’s for relaxing, entertaining, or just breathing some fresh air.
4. Double Glazing: Another 32% say double-glazing is a must. This helps keep the place warm in winter and cut down on noise, which are both big pluses for renters.
5. Fast Internet: 24% of renters need super-fast internet. In today’s world, fast internet is a necessity for work, study, and entertainment.
6. Pet-Friendly: 23% of renters need a place where they can bring their furry friend. This is a key factor for many, so if you’re looking to attract a wider range of tenants, consider being pet-friendly.
7. Parking: 21% of renters want off-street parking. This is a major perk in many areas, especially if parking is scarce.
8. Spacious Bedrooms: 17% of renters need large bedrooms. This is particularly important for families or those with lots of belongings.

Landlords Need to Be Smart Too

Landlords aren’t just sitting back and taking it – they’re also looking for the best tenants! Here’s what they’re prioritising:

1. Cleanliness: 27% of landlords want tenants who are clean and tidy. A clean property is a happy property, and landlords want to minimise the risk of damage or unpleasant situations.
2. Proof of Income: 27% of landlords want to see proof of income. This ensures tenants can afford the rent and reduces the risk of arrears.
3. Quiet Tenants: 24% of landlords want quiet tenants. This is essential for everyone living in a building, so it’s important to consider neighbours when choosing tenants.
4. Permanent Job: 22% of landlords prefer tenants with a permanent job. This helps ensure they have stable income and are less likely to move suddenly.
5. Strong References: 21% of landlords want to see good references from previous landlords or employers. This gives landlords confidence in the potential tenant.

Tips to Stand Out

For renters:

• Highlight your strengths: Emphasise your good references, clean living habits, and a willingness to take care of the property.
• Be proactive: Don’t just wait for the landlord to call you – send a personalised note expressing your interest in the property.

For landlords:

• Invest wisely: Making some key improvements, like damp-proofing, double-glazing, and fast internet, can make a big difference in attracting tenants.
• Think long-term: Offering incentives like lower rent to existing tenants who take good care of the property can create a loyal tenant base and reduce the costs of finding new tenants.

Remember, the UK property market is competitive, so both renters and landlords need to be smart and savvy to get the best results.