5 Common Mistakes That Make London Properties Harder to Let

Successfully letting a property in London’s competitive rental market demands more than just listing it online.

Landlords can unknowingly make critical mistakes that delay finding the right tenant, decrease rental income, and even increase long-term costs.

Here, we reveal the five most common mistakes landlords make when letting London properties—along with expert tips to avoid them.

We have also answered some of the most frequently asked questions by landlords who face challenges letting their properties.

Our goal is simple: to help you avoid these pitfalls and let your property faster, for the best possible rent.

Setting an Unrealistic Rent Price

Many landlords overprice their properties, hoping to maximise returns. However, unrealistic pricing can deter tenants and leave the property vacant for extended periods.

In London’s fast-moving rental market, tenants are savvy—they compare multiple listings and know when a property is overpriced.

Solution:

We conduct comprehensive market rent reviews and advise landlords to set competitive rental prices that attract high-quality tenants quickly while achieving maximum rental income.

Poor Presentation and Lack of Professional Photography

First impressions are everything. Properties with poor décor, clutter, or low-quality photos often fail to attract interest, no matter the location’s prime.

Solution:

We offer full property presentation advice, recommending simple improvements like fresh paint, deep cleaning, and minor repairs.

Our professional photographers ensure your property shines online, capturing attention from the first click.

Ignoring Legal Compliance and Certification

Failing to provide essential documents like an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or gas Safety Certificate or not adhering to new legislation requirements can delay a tenancy and lead to hefty fines.

Solution:

We handle tenant screening, compliance checks, and energy assessments through our in-house services.

Ensuring all legal documentation is up-to-date is part of our standard letting service to protect landlords.

Not Marketing the Property Properly

Simply listing on one or two portals is no longer enough.

Properties not widely marketed miss out on potential tenants, especially professional renters and international tenants who are a huge part of London’s rental market.

Solution:

We offer extensive marketing campaigns, including portal listings, social media advertising, and reaching out to our network of pre-qualified tenants.

Our marketing strategy ensures your property receives maximum exposure.

Choosing the Wrong Tenant or Rushing the Process

Some landlords are tempted to accept the first tenant who shows interest.

However, this can result in late payments, damages, or even evictions without thorough tenant referencing.

Solution:

We provide rigorous tenant vetting, including employment checks, credit checks, previous landlord references, and affordability assessments.

We aim to secure tenants who pay rent reliably and respect your property.

Frequently Asked Questions About Letting Properties in London

Why is my London property not letting even after several viewings?

There could be multiple reasons, including unrealistic rent, poor presentation, or legal non-compliance.

We recommend a full property assessment to identify the exact issues.

How important is it to have an EPC before letting?

It’s legally required. A property cannot be marketed for rent without a valid EPC rating of at least ‘E’.

We can arrange your Energy Performance Certificate quickly and affordably.

How do you find good tenants quickly?

Professionally marketing the property, setting the right rent, and conducting strict tenant referencing.

Our tenant database often lets us match properties with tenants before listing publicly.

Can I increase the rent once the tenant is living there?

Yes, but it must be done legally, often via a Section 13 notice.

We can assist in reviewing the rent and handling the legal paperwork correctly.

Is staging important for letting a property?

Absolutely. Staged properties rent faster and often at higher prices.

Small investments like new curtains, a deep clean, or adding tasteful furnishings can make a big difference.

What happens if a tenant stops paying rent?

Our rent protection services shield landlords against non-payment.

We also assist with legal processes if eviction becomes necessary.

How quickly can you let my property?

Many of our landlords see offers within 7–14 days.

It depends on price, presentation, and market conditions—but our marketing and tenant network gives you the best chance of a quick let.

Why Choose Us to Let Your London Property?

In-house Tenant Screening and Rent Protection

Energy Certificates, Gas Safety, and Compliance Checks

Professional Photography and Presentation Advice

Extensive Marketing for Maximum Exposure

Fast Lettings and Reliable Tenants

Letting your property with us is a streamlined, professional process designed to protect your investment and maximise your income.

👉 Ready to let your London property quickly and smoothly?

Contact us today to get started.