What Today’s Tenants Really Want — And How to Make Your Rental Stand Out Without Breaking the Bank

In a quieter rental market, presentation matters more than ever. Here’s how to give your property the edge - without overspending.

As someone with years of experience in lettings and home styling, I’ve seen first-hand what makes a rental property fly off the market - and what makes it linger far longer than it should. Right now, with the rental market softening in many areas, landlords are having to do more to attract reliable tenants.

The good news? It doesn’t have to mean a full refurb. Often, it’s the small, thoughtful touches that make the biggest difference.

First Impressions Really Do Count

When a potential tenant walks through the door, they make a decision in the first 60 seconds of their viewing - often before they even see the second room. A clean, well-lit, fresh-smelling space that feels warm and inviting will instantly put you ahead of other listings.

Helpful tip: A neutral but warm paint colour, a mirror to bounce light around and a few soft furnishings if you’re letting furnished, can completely transform a room without major cost.

What Tenants Are Prioritising in 2025

Tenant expectations have shifted, especially with the rise of working from home and a focus on cost of living. Here's what people are actively looking for:

• Modern kitchens and bathrooms – They don’t need to be top-of-the-range, but they do need to feel clean, bright, and modern.

• A workspace nook – Even if it’s just a desk under the stairs, tenants value a work-from-home option.

• Energy efficiency – EPC ratings and heating bills are now key decision factors.

• Storage – Accessible loft space and built-in storage solutions go a long way.

  
  

  

  Incorporating a work space will set your property apart

Low-Cost Styling Tricks That Make a Big Difference

You don’t need to furnish the whole property, but consider staging the main rooms just enough to help tenants visualise themselves living there.

• Add a throw and a few cushions to lend a sense of comfort to a basic sofa.

• Use quality faux plants to breathe life and colour into living spaces.

• Keep windows clear, clean and with blinds or curtains to add a sense of privacy.

• In bathrooms: hang white towels, a mirror and a plant to enhance the space.

Pricing Realistically - and the Cost of Long Voids

Overpricing is still one of the most common mistakes. In a slower market, trying to achieve last year’s rents can mean weeks of no interest - and ultimately costs more than a small price correction would; remember while ever your property’s vacant – you’re responsible for mortgage repayments, council tax and utilities!

A well-presented property priced just right will let much quicker and often attracts a better calibre of tenant.

Helpful Tip: You can likely afford to try out a higher asking price at the outset, but the level of interest you get in the first week will tell you all you need to know. If you haven’t got enough viewings in the first 7 days don’t delay – reduce before prospective tenants start to dismiss your property as a ‘suspiciously old’ listing.

Your Property Deserves to Stand Out

We prepare homes every week for both sale and rent, and the same rules apply across the board: it’s not just what a property is — it’s how it feels when someone walks in.

If you’re in Greater Manchester and you need help:

• Styling a property for photos

• Preparing a home between tenancies

• Or just want a second opinion before you list

  
  

Our fully qualified Lettings Expert is on hand to offer a free consultation and estimate, from small scale improvements to large scale refurbishments.

Meet our Sales & Lettings Expert

📞 Get in Touch

If you’re a landlord in Greater Manchester and want to give your property the best chance of letting fast and for the best price, we’d love to hear from you.

Homes Reimagined Ltd Specialists in Property Styling, Renovations & Home Adaptations📍 Based in Greater Manchester💬 Let’s reimagine your rental.