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Bear Grylls Adventure - Dive Saturday 19th October 2024 - Thursday 16th January 2025

Where Do I Go You can find The Bear Grylls Adventure at The NEC in Birmingham. The nearest train station to The Bear Grylls Adventure is...

Click here to read Bear Grylls Adventure - Dive Saturday 19th October 2024 - Thursday 16th January 2025.



How new rental regulations are reshaping the UK lettings market

In 2025, new regulations, including the Renters' Rights Bill, are reshaping the UK lettings market. These changes aim to improve tenant protections and create a more balanced relationship between landlords and tenants. Here’s how these new regulations will impact landlords and tenants alike.

1. Abolition of 'No-Fault' Evictions

The Renters' Rights Bill abolishes Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, offering tenants greater security. Landlords can still evict tenants for specific reasons, such as rent arrears or property sale, but must follow proper legal procedures. This shift provides tenants more stability in their homes, while landlords need to ensure they follow the new processes for eviction.

2. Introduction of Periodic Tenancies

Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies are replaced with periodic tenancies, offering tenants more flexibility. Under this system, tenants can remain in properties indefinitely, with the option to give two months' notice to vacate. Landlords will need to adapt to this more flexible tenancy structure.

3. Rent Increase Regulations

Rent increases will now be strictly regulated. Landlords can only raise rents once a year, with increases needing to reflect market conditions. This change ensures fairer rent practices and gives tenants more stability. Landlords will need to carefully consider rent adjustments in line with these new rules.

4. Restrictions on Rent in Advance

The Renters' Rights Bill limits the amount of rent that can be requested in advance, capping it at one month's rent. This regulation prevents landlords from requiring large upfront payments, making it easier for tenants to secure rental properties.

5. Right to Request Permission for Pets

Tenants now have the right to request permission to keep pets, with landlords only allowed to refuse for valid reasons. This change ensures that tenants have more freedom to live with pets while providing landlords the option to request pet insurance to cover potential damages.

Conclusion

The Renters' Rights Bill and new rental regulations are transforming the lettings market, giving tenants more security and improving rental fairness. Landlords must stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance and maintain positive relationships with tenants, as these new regulations are just the beginning of a broader shift towards a more balanced rental system.



What tenants want in 2025: key trends for landlords

In 2025, tenant expectations are shifting, and landlords need to stay ahead of these trends to remain competitive. From sustainability to flexibility, here’s a look at what tenants are looking for and how landlords can meet these demands.

1. Sustainability and energy efficiency

Tenants are increasingly prioritising energy-efficient homes due to rising energy costs. Properties with high EPC ratings, double glazing, and efficient heating systems are in high demand.

Tip for landlords: Consider making energy-efficient upgrades like smart thermostats or LED lighting to attract eco-conscious renters and stay compliant with future environmental regulations.

2. Flexible lease terms

With remote work still prevalent, tenants want flexibility in their rental agreements. Shorter leases or periodic tenancies are becoming more popular, offering tenants freedom to adjust to changing circumstances.

Tip for landlords: Offering flexibility in lease terms can make your property more attractive to tenants who value mobility.

3. Home office space

Remote and hybrid working is here to stay, so tenants need space to work from home. A dedicated office space or extra room for a desk is a key priority.

Tip for landlords: Ensure your property has a flexible layout or provide an extra room that can easily be adapted into an office to appeal to these tenants.

4. Pet-friendly rentals

With more people adopting pets, pet-friendly properties are increasingly sought after. Many tenants are looking for homes where they can live with their pets.

Tip for landlords: If you’re open to pets, establish clear pet policies, such as a pet deposit or insurance, to keep your property protected.

5. Good connectivity and local amenities

Tenants continue to value properties near good transport links, shopping, schools, and high-speed internet access.

Tip for landlords: Ensure your property is well-connected and provides access to local amenities to meet tenant expectations.

Conclusion

Understanding the trends shaping tenant preferences in 2025 will help landlords stay competitive. Offering energy-efficient features, flexible leases, home office space, and pet-friendly options will make your property more appealing to today’s renters.



Decluttering for summer: How to reset your space before a move

A fresh season, a fresh start 

There’s something about the start of summer that makes us want to breathe new life into our spaces. Whether you're preparing to sell your home, hand it back as a tenant, or get a property ready for new renters, decluttering can be one of the most powerful and freeing steps in the moving process. 

It’s not just about making a property look better. Decluttering can help reduce stress, create clarity, and make moving day far easier. Here’s how to reset your space in a way that feels productive, not overwhelming. 

Start small and go room by room 

You don’t need to overhaul everything in one go. Focus on one space at a time starting with the areas that tend to collect the most clutter. Hallways, kitchen counters, and “junk drawers” are great places to begin. Even 15 minutes can make a difference. 

If you're selling, this helps buyers focus on the room rather than the stuff. If you're moving out of a rental, it reduces the chance of missing something (or being charged for leaving it behind). 

Be honest about what’s coming with you 

As you sort, ask yourself: do I really want or need this in my next space? Moving is a great time to let go of items that no longer serve you. Clothes you haven’t worn, paperwork you no longer need, and furniture that won’t fit in your next home all good candidates to donate, recycle, or sell. 

Not only does this lighten your load, but it can help you see your current space more clearly, which is a bonus if you’re staging it for viewings. 

Create calm through clear surfaces 

A few clear surfaces can change the whole feel of a room. Kitchens and bathrooms especially benefit from a clean, uncluttered look. For sellers, this helps buyers imagine themselves in the space. For tenants moving out, it gives the property a well-cared-for feel that landlords and letting agents will appreciate. 

Even if you’re not moving for a few weeks, keeping surfaces tidy makes everyday life easier during the transition and gives you that satisfying sense of being one step ahead. 

Don’t forget hidden areas 

Storage spaces under beds, in lofts, or garden sheds are often out of sight, out of mind. But when it’s time to pack (or hand back the keys), these areas can become the biggest job. Tackling them early means fewer surprises later and might even uncover a few things you’re glad to see again. 

Decluttering = confidence 

Resetting your space doesn’t just make moving easier it sets the tone for what’s next. Whether you’re handing over keys or searching for new ones, a refreshed space helps you feel clear, calm, and ready. 

Ready to move forward with a clearer space? Let’s get things moving this summer 



Moving this summer? Here’s how to plan without the panic

Summer is a popular time to move for good reason 

The days are longer, the weather’s (hopefully) better, and life often feels more flexible. But whether you’re selling, switching rentals, or relocating entirely, moving in summer can also come with a lot to juggle. The key to a smooth move? A bit of planning and a calm, step-by-step approach. 

Here’s your go-to guide for a summer move that’s organised, stress-free, and dare we say it maybe even enjoyable. 

1. Sort your dates early 

Summer’s popularity means removals firms and key services book up quickly. As soon as you know your move-out or completion date, start booking: 

  • Removals or van hire 
  • End-of-tenancy cleaners (if renting) 
  • Utility final readings 
  • Broadband/moving providers for the new address 

Even pencilling in dates gives you a structure to work from and avoids last-minute chaos. 

2. Declutter as you go 

Summer moves pair perfectly with a seasonal clear-out. As you pack, separate items into “keep,” “donate,” or “recycle.” Not only will you save space (and moving costs), but you’ll also arrive at your new home feeling lighter and more in control. 

This is especially helpful for tenants who want to avoid deductions leaving a clean, clutter-free space is always appreciated by landlords and letting agents. 

3. Label, list, and stay logical 

Start packing early, one room at a time. Label boxes clearly with the room and a few key contents (“Kitchen – mugs and plates”) so you’re not guessing later. Consider colour-coding or numbering for a smoother unpacking experience. 

Keep important documents, chargers, medication, and a change of clothes in one easily accessible “essentials box.” You’ll be glad to have it on hand on moving day. 

4. Prep for heat and timing 

Summer moves can mean sunshine, but also higher temperatures and traffic. If you’re doing the heavy lifting yourself, plan early morning starts and keep water, snacks, and sun cream handy. Pets and kids? Make a plan to keep them cool, calm, and ideally cared for elsewhere on the day. 

5. Give yourself a soft landing 

You don’t need to unpack everything on day one. Make your bed first, sort the kitchen basics, and light a candle or play music to make the space feel instantly familiar. A slow, thoughtful start sets the tone for how you’ll settle in. 

Final thought? You’ve got this 

Every move comes with a few unknowns but with the right mindset and some gentle prep, your summer move can feel less like a logistical marathon and more like the beginning of a fresh, exciting chapter. 

Moving this summer? Let us help you feel ready, not rushed 



What makes a house feel like home – for buyers and tenants alike

More than four walls and a roof 

Whether you’re buying your first house or renting a flat for a year, the desire is the same: to feel at home. That feeling of comfort, belonging, and possibility isn’t tied to ownership. It’s about connection. And it’s what both buyers and tenants are ultimately looking for when they view a property. 

So, what creates that sense of “home” the moment you walk through the door? It turns out, the details matter less than the experience. 

The layout that fits your life 

One of the biggest factors in choosing a place to live whether to own or rent is how well it fits your lifestyle. Buyers might imagine how their furniture would flow in the space; tenants might picture where they’d put a desk or reading chair. The key is feeling like the property can adapt to your needs, not the other way around. 

Open-plan living might suit one person’s hosting dreams, while another sees value in defined rooms for work, play, and quiet. A house that “feels right” usually does because it quietly mirrors how someone wants to live. 

Comfort and character over perfection 

Both buyers and tenants are less concerned with perfection than they are with comfort. A house that’s clean, bright, and welcoming goes further than one that’s coldly pristine. Cosy lighting, soft textures, and small touches of personality (even if they belong to someone else) can help viewers imagine their own lives unfolding there. 

For sellers and landlords, that means creating spaces that feel lived in, not just lived through. You don’t need expensive renovations just warmth, care, and a bit of charm. 

Outdoor space, no matter the size 

From a private garden to a shared balcony, some access to outdoor space continues to be a top priority for both buyers and renters. Even a window box or sunny step can offer that connection to fresh air and green views. 

Properties that blur the line between indoors and outdoors through French doors, balconies, or large windows often stand out, not just for their aesthetics, but for the lifestyle they suggest. 

The emotional “click” 

Sometimes, it’s the feeling that seals the deal. It could be the light in the hallway, the view from the kitchen sink, or the way a bedroom feels at the end of a long day. That emotional response is universal. It’s what makes someone decide, “This is it.” 

Whether they’re buying for the long haul or renting for now, people choose homes that speak to them. And helping your property tell that story of comfort, flexibility, and possibility makes all the difference. 

Ready to make your property feel like home for its next resident? Let’s get started




Why more people are ‘testing the waters’ before buying

A new kind of home journey 

Buying a home used to be the clear next step once someone had saved a deposit but in 2025, the path to homeownership is looking more flexible. Increasingly, we’re seeing renters who aren’t in a rush to buy. Instead, they’re taking their time, trying different areas, and getting a feel for what works before making a big commitment. 

In short, they’re ‘testing the waters’ and it’s reshaping the way people think about renting. 

Short lets and trial living 

For some, renting isn’t just a necessity it’s a strategy. Short-term lets, flexible tenancy agreements, and furnished rentals are giving people the chance to try a lifestyle before they buy into it. That might mean moving to a new city for work, spending a year in the countryside before deciding on village life, or trialling apartment living before committing to a flat purchase. 

It’s a way of exploring what’s right without the pressure of mortgages or long-term decisions. 

Why renting still appeals 

In 2025, flexibility is king. Many renters are choosing to delay buying not because they can’t, but because they want freedom. Renting can mean: 

  • Living in central areas with easy access to work, nightlife or travel 
  • Avoiding property maintenance and repair responsibilities 
  • The ability to upsize or downsize as life changes 
  • Lower upfront costs compared to purchasing 

For landlords and letting agents, this means today’s tenants are looking for homes that offer more than just convenience they want flexibility, quality, and lifestyle compatibility. 

What this means for sellers and landlords 

For sellers, it’s important to understand that not every viewing is a ready buyer but many renters become buyers once they’ve found the right area or property type. Consider making your home as appealing to future buyers as it is to current tenants. Highlight features that offer lifestyle value: garden access, smart storage, home office space, or walkability. 

For landlords, the opportunity lies in catering to the flexible living market. Offering short-term lets or rolling contracts, maintaining high-quality furnishings, and providing bills-included options can make your property especially attractive to professionals, relocators, and ‘try-before-you-buy’ tenants. 

Living intentionally - at every stage 

Whether it’s renting by choice or buying after some reflection, people are approaching their living decisions with more intention. They want to find spaces that suit their lives not just financially, but emotionally and practically too. 

And sometimes, the clearest path to owning a home… is renting one first. Explore flexible living options that fit your lifestyle 

Speak to us about rentals and short lets today