What do tenants look for when renting

As a landlord (possibly with a few properties), you may know what you like and think you know what your tenants want. But at Rentila, we have our finger on the pulse of what tenants are looking for in a rental property. So read on to ensure you keep up with current rental market trends.

Location and transport links

It might be a cliche, but when it comes to property, it often comes down to location. Whoever your tenants are, they all need basic amenities such as local shops, a GP surgery and a pharmacy. Transport links are also important, whether it’s roads, bus routes or train stations. If you rent a family house, local schools will also be important, or the university if it’s a student house. For many renters, a parking space is a deal breaker. Having somewhere off-road and safe such as a guaranteed car parking space or a garage is not just convenient; it brings peace of mind and can keep car insurance fees to a minimum.

Security

Everyone wants to feel safe, particularly when we are in our own homes. You will certainly be able to pick up rental properties in high-crime areas at a reduced price, but you may struggle to find tenants.

Regardless of the area’s crime rating, it’s essential that the property is as secure as possible. Doors and windows should be sturdy with good locks, and a peephole in the front door is always a good idea. An alarm system and CCTV are also options so tenants can feel safe.

Open plan space

It’s always a question as to how to offer a property. A separate kitchen and lounge mean you are offering a home with an extra room as opposed to a downstairs that is entirely open plan comprising an open-plan kitchen and dining and lounge area. However, the trend is definitely for open plan. If the downstairs is open plan, this gives tenants more freedom to move furniture and create an office or even a gym area for a weights bench.

Open-plan spaces are great for houses with multiple occupants, students and small homes and may only take knocking down one wall in many houses.

Outdoor space

An outdoor space is a big plus for tenants. It’s not always possible, but it’s something to look out for if you are buying. Even a balcony allows tenants to get outside and enjoy some fresh air. If you have smaller properties with a very small yard, you can still make the most of this by ensuring it is neat, tidy, and cared for.

Adding some garden furniture takes minimal effort but makes the space look inviting for warmer months.

Another possibility is to renovate or add a garden building, such as a cabin or shed, so it can be used as a home office. This would appeal to many home workers and can always be used for other things, such as a children’s play area or the quintessential man shed.

Any outdoor space will also mean that smoking tenants are far more likely to smoke outside, causing less smoke to stain or accidentally burn indoor areas.

Fitted appliances

Fitted appliances are favored in rental properties. Very few renters, even if they are renting an unfurnished property, expect to move with appliances that need disconnecting and reconnecting, such as washing machines, ovens, and dishwashers.

And a kitchen with spaces in it is never a good look when advertising the property. Ensure you provide good quality fitted appliances; the newer, the more efficient the appliance and the less likely it is to break down and require costly repairs.

Good condition

Of great importance is that the property is in good condition and easy to maintain. Newer properties are usually in better condition and require less work. If you are buying an older property, make sure the walls, doors, windows, boiler, bathroom, and kitchen are updated. And you can easily make a property look fresher by cleaning scrupulously and repainting.

Pet friendly

You might still be hesitant about allowing pets in your rental property—even if you’re an animal lover yourself. Traditionally, landlords were reluctant to permit pets due to concerns about damage and disturbances. In fact, back in 2020, only 7% of UK rental listings were pet-friendly. But in 2025, the landscape is changing.

Thanks to the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, which has widespread public and cross-party support, landlords will soon need to consider pet requests more seriously. The bill gives tenants the legal right to request to keep a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse—blanket bans will no longer be allowed.

That said, landlords can still refuse on reasonable grounds—such as the property’s unsuitability, risks to health (e.g., allergies), or lack of pet vaccinations. But these refusals must be justified.

Previously, landlords could increase the tenant’s deposit to cover pet damage. However, with the 5-week deposit cap now in law, that option is gone. Instead, landlords will be allowed to require tenants to have pet damage insurance, which helps cover wear and tear caused by animals.

Even though the bill hasn’t passed into law yet, it’s expected to do so soon. By getting ahead of the curve and advertising your property as pet-friendly, you can attract a broader pool of renters. With only around 8% of listings currently marked as pet-friendly, your property could stand out.

FAQs

What’s the most important factor tenants consider when choosing a rental property?

Location remains a top priority. Tenants look for proximity to public transport, shops, schools, and workplaces. Properties near train stations, bus routes, and amenities are more attractive and can command higher rents.

How important are fitted appliances in unfurnished rentals?

Very important. Most tenants expect essential fitted appliances like washing machines, ovens, and dishwashers—even in unfurnished homes. Supplying modern, energy-efficient appliances increases tenant satisfaction and reduces repair costs.

Are pet-friendly properties really in demand ?

Yes. With new legislation making it harder to ban pets, and only 8% of properties currently advertised as pet-friendly, landlords can gain a competitive edge. Allowing pets—with proper insurance—can attract long-term, responsible tenants and justify higher rent.

What do tenants look for when renting?: Things to Remember

• Never dismiss the importance of location but make sure you consider if your tenant is likely to be a student wanting to get to Uni on the bus, a single person wishing to drive to work or a family with children attending school. Make sure there are local shops and amenities too.
• You should also make the utmost effort to make sure that the property is as secure as possible with strong doors, windows, and locks. You can also consider CCTV or an alarm system.
• Consider knocking down a wall to create a bright and open downstairs area with more space and options, such as a home office.
• Look for properties that have an outdoor space and make the most of any outdoor area by pruning and tidying any garden. You can also provide garden furniture so tenants can get out and enjoy warmer weather.
• Fitted appliances are preferred and could be a deal breaker, so ensure you provide an energy-efficient and good-quality oven, washing machine and fridge.
• The property should be in good condition and easily maintained. And finally, before you are forced to accept pets, you may as well start accepting them now and advertise your property as pet friendly. You are entitled to charge a higher rent and can always make routine inspections as a condition of having pets.

Letting Tenancy.