How to Find Good Tenants

Every landlord wants the perfect tenant – someone who pays rent on time, takes care of the property, sticks around for the long term, and only calls to wish you a happy birthday! But finding them takes more than just listing your property and hoping for the best. A solid referencing process, setting clear expectations, and the right approach can make all the difference.

This guide will cover practical steps and tips on how to find good tenants, helping you minimise hassle and keep your investment running smoothly!

Why Choosing the Right Tenant Matters More Than Ever

• Finding the right tenant helps avoid costly repairs and lengthy deposit disputes
• The Renter’s Rights Bill is changing eviction rules, abolishing “no-fault” evictions (Section 21), meaning landlords will need valid legal grounds in order to evict.

Learn more with our guidance on Section 21 for landlords.

But how much can a bad tenant cost you?

💰 Unpaid rent – landlords may have to cover lost income and legal fees

🏠 Property damage – repairs can range from minor fixes to major renovations

📅 Extended vacancies – damage can delay new tenancies and increase holding costs

📃 Legal fees – evictions and disputes can be expensive and time-consuming

Top Tip! Always take out rents guarantee insurance. From as little as £200 per year, you can have peace of mind if a tenant stops paying rent and your mortgage will be covered

How to Attract the Perfect Tenant

Don’t worry, perfect tenants do exist! But what do good tenants want?

Here’s how to boost your chances of finding them:

✅ Keep Your Property Listings Up To Date

• Use professional photos and detailed descriptions, especially following any renovations or changes to the property
• Making a small investment of £80 to have professional photography for your one bedroom property will provide you with high quality images to use for marketing, and to stand out from the masses!
• Highlight nearby amenities like green spaces, supermarkets, and public transport
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✅ Spending a Little More Can Go a Long Way

• Presenting a well-maintained property sets higher expectations on the tenants!
• A fresh lick of paint every 3 – 5 years can help to attract tenants that will take care of your property
• Also make sure to clearly outline and reinforce expectations in the tenancy agreement
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✅ Have the Property Professionally Cleaned Before A Tenancy

• Similar to the above, this will set the bar of renting a good home
• Rent out a decent home and you will get reliable tenants who are more likely to respect your property
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✅ Pet-Friendly Policies

• Despite over half of all adults in the UK currently owning a pet, only 7% of rental homes are advertised as pet-friendly
• But this is soon to change, with the Renters’ Rights Bill set to require landlords to provide reasonable grounds for refusing a tenant’s request to have a pet
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✅ Offer Modern Amenities

• With more of the UK population working from home than ever, providing modern amenities can make your property stand out
• Tenants are increasingly searching for properties that offer smart technology and high-speed broadband
• Having the latest tech, such as smart lighting, locks, and thermostats will also make your property have that extra edge
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✅ Consider Furnishing Your Property

• Unsure on whether to rent your property as furnished or unfurnished?
• Offering high quality furnishings can set your property apart from unfurnished competitors
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✅ Go Green!

• There has been a considerable shift towards more sustainable living, with renters prioritising greener living
• New regulations are also shaping the rental market up to become greener, with all newly rented properties having to meet a minimum EPC rating of ‘C’ by 2030
• Not sure how to achieve this? Check out our guide on making eco-friendly changes to your property
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✅ Work with a Reliable Letting Agent and Inventory Supplier

• Starting with a strong relationship with your letting agent will ensure you attract good tenants and that your property is managed efficiently
• Have a thorough check in report completed by a professional inventory supplier, and make sure that your new tenants sign off on the property inventory at the start of the tenancy. This avoids any arguments when it comes to the deposit
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The Importance of Tenant Referencing

Tenant referencing is essential when it comes to finding reliable and trustworthy tenants

• Checks financial reliability – verifies income and affordability to reduce rent arrears risk
• Assesses rental history – reveals past behaviour from previous landlords
• Prevents fraud – confirms identity and right to rent (a legal requirement)
• Runs credit checks – identifies missed payments or financial issues
• Minimises legal risks – helps avoid disputes, evictions, and property damage

 

Final Thoughts

Had issues with past tenants and wondering where to find good renters? Taking the time to find good tenants reduces stress, minimises void periods, and protects your investment. By following these steps, landlords can secure responsible tenants who will look after the property and provide a stable rental income.