How can landlords quickly improve an underperforming buy to let property?
If your rental property in the UK has been sitting empty or delivering low returns, you might not need a full renovation to turn things around. Small, strategic fixes can make a big difference. From pricing and presentation to targeting the right tenants and improving your listing, here are ten fast, affordable ways to boost rental performance.
What We Have Covered In This Article?
This article has explored ten practical, affordable ways to turn around an underperforming buy to let property. We’ve covered rent pricing, photography tips, fast interior upgrades, broadband and tech features, retargeting tenants, and how to improve your EPC rating. You’ve also seen how switching letting agents, refining your listing description and collecting tenant reviews can all drive better results quickly. Avoiding common mistakes and tracking what works will help you stay one step ahead.
How much can these improvements increase your rent?
Even simple improvements can have a noticeable impact on income. For example:
High quality listing photos can reduce time on the market by up to 50 percent
A minor refresh like new handles or fresh paint could justify an extra £25 to £75 per month
Including superfast fibre broadband might attract long term tenants who are willing to pay more for convenience
While results vary by location and property type, UK landlords often report quicker lets and stronger monthly rent by making just two or three changes from this list.
1. Check if your rent is still competitive in today’s market
Outdated pricing is a major reason properties remain empty. Compare your rent with similar listings on Zoopla and Rightmove. Use rent calculators or ask two local letting agents for current estimates. If your last tenant moved in years ago, the market may have shifted significantly.
It can be frustrating watching viewings drop off even after lowering the rent. A small adjustment, even just £25 to £50 less, could mean the difference between a void month and a new tenancy.
2. Use better photos to attract tenants online
Most tenants scroll past poor listings. Your rental needs to stand out with bright, clear and realistic photos. Use natural daylight and neutral staging such as simple bedding, plants and lighting. Even modern smartphones can do the job if used well.
Many landlords feel stuck when they have had no viewings for weeks. Better photos improve click through rates and increase the chance of booking viewings quickly.
Pro Tip:A strong listing photo set can double your enquiry rate in a single week.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
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3. Make low cost interior updates that add value fast
You do not need a full refurb. Replace dated handles, add LED bulbs, paint white walls and clean up flooring edges. Even small touches like a hallway mirror or repainted kitchen cupboards can make your flat feel brighter and fresher.
These cosmetic upgrades are ideal for UK landlords wanting a quick rental improvement without major spend.
4. Offer fast WiFi or include it in the rent
Superfast broadband is now a dealbreaker for many tenants. Use a fibre availability checker to see what is offered in your area. Setting up broadband before listing shows tenants you are tech ready and thoughtful.
You can include the cost in the rent if margins allow, which works well for remote workers and students. Attracting tenants quickly often depends on conveniences like this.
5. Switch letting agents if yours is not delivering
Not all letting agents perform equally. If viewings are low or feedback is poor, secret shop your own listing and speak to competing agents. Check online reviews and ask tough questions.
Sometimes the flat is not the issue, the representation is. A better letting agent with stronger marketing reach can dramatically improve your rental’s visibility.
6. Retarget your property to suit the right type of tenant
If your listing is aimed at professionals but better suited to sharers or couples, you may be missing your ideal audience. Update your description and photos to highlight features that matter to them, like a work from home nook or separate bathrooms.
Focus on who the property would best suit and write to them. Targeting tenants correctly improves net yield and reduces rental voids.
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7. Rewrite your listing description to sell the lifestyle
Boring listings do not inspire. Rewrite yours with warmth and clarity. Talk about local cafes, morning sun or quiet working space. Avoid all caps and legalese. Use simple bullet points for features and friendly sentences for atmosphere.
A strong listing helps potential tenants visualise their life in the space, which increases enquiries.
8. Improve your EPC rating with small, cheap fixes
A better Energy Performance Certificate rating can boost appeal and futureproof against regulation changes in the UK. Swap in LED bulbs, draught proof, service the boiler and check if local councils offer free reassessments.
Moving from an E to a D could widen your tenant pool and save future upgrade costs. If your rental is not getting viewings, this is often a quick win worth exploring.
9. Add simple smart tech that boosts tenant appeal
Smart thermostats, keyless entry or a video doorbell show your property is modern and secure. These upgrades are relatively low cost and can raise perceived value.
They also work well in listings as standout features for the right audience.
10. Collect positive reviews and build your online presence
Tenants often Google landlords and agents. Set up a free Google Business Profile or encourage happy tenants to leave reviews. Even one or two positive mentions can build trust.
Also check that your property appears on the major platforms with accurate photos and up to date details. Building trust online increases your chances of attracting the right tenant.
Pro Tip: Including broadband in the rent can appeal to remote workers and reduce turnover.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
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Find out how your property compares locally and where you're losing rent. No catch, just practical advice.
Avoid these common mistakes
Before you start making changes, be aware of what not to do:
Do not keep relisting the property without changing anything, it signals desperation and stale marketing
Avoid overpricing just to “test the market”
Do not ignore agent feedback or tenant questions, they offer valuable insight
Do not use old or cluttered photos from a previous let
Avoid empty listings with no furniture or context, they are harder to visualise
These missteps can cost time and money. A few small corrections will always outperform a passive approach.
Final tip: Track what works
Do not just make changes, track the results. Note when each tweak was made and how many enquiries or viewings follow. Ask letting agents for weekly feedback and keep a spreadsheet.
That way, you can repeat what works and stop wasting time on what does not. Improving a slow rental is often about layering small wins until performance turns around.
