How to Set Your 2026 Rental Strategy: A Guide for Landlords
As 2026 approaches, the rental landscape continues to evolve. Legislative reform, shifting tenant expectations, economic pressures, and ongoing supply shortages mean that landlords who plan ahead will be best positioned to maximise returns, protect their investment, and reduce risk.
At Allen Residential, we work closely with landlords to ensure their properties remain compliant, competitive, and profitable. Below, we outline the key steps every landlord should take to build a strong and resilient rental strategy for 2026.
1. Review Your Propertyās Performance in 2025
Before setting your 2026 strategy, take an honest look at the previous 12 months:
- How quickly did your property let?
- Did you experience void periods?
- Were rent increases achieved?
- Did maintenance issues escalate or repeat?
- Were your tenants reliable and high quality?
- Was your agent proactive, communicative, and compliant?
This retrospective view helps identify opportunities for improvement and areas where strategic adjustments can significantly increase returns next year.
2. Prioritise Compliance ā It Will Define 2026
With ongoing legal reforms and increased enforcement, compliance is no longer simply advisableāit is essential.
For 2026, landlords must ensure:
- Gas, electrical, and fire safety certificates are fully up to date
- Smoke and CO alarms meet legal standards
- EPC ratings are improving, particularly if your rating is D or below
- Deposits are protected correctly
- Tenancy documentation is fully compliant
- All new requirements under the Rentersā Rights Act are adopted once finalised
Failing to meet compliance obligations exposes landlords to financial risk, reputational harm, and difficulty gaining possession in the future.
3. Setting the Right Rent: Use Data, Not Guesswork
The rental market remains strong in many areas due to high demand and tight supply. However, pricing must be approached strategically.
To set your 2026 rental price effectively:
- Analyse local comparable rents
- Factor in seasonal patterns (JanuaryāMarch is typically fast-moving)
- Balance profitability with attracting high-quality, long-term tenants
- Review annual adjustment options with tenants already in situ
- Consider upgrading the property to justify higher rents
Pricing too high leads to voids; too low leaves money on the table. A professional valuation ensures accuracy and confidence.
4. Improve Your Propertyās Marketability
Tenant expectations continue to rise. The properties that let fastest in 2025 typically shared common features:
- Fresh dƩcor
- Modern kitchens and bathrooms
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Good natural light
- Smart, neutral presentation
In 2026, tenants will be even more discerning. Small improvementsānew flooring, better lighting, upgraded heating controlsācan significantly boost rental value and reduce voids.
5. Ensure Your Marketing Is Exceptional
A successful rental strategy relies on standing out from the crowd.
Your 2026 marketing approach should include:
- Professional photography
- Floor plans
- Detailed, accurate descriptions
- Virtual tours
- Social media exposure
- Targeted advertising to high-quality tenants
Poor marketing is one of the biggest causes of slow lets. A highly qualified agency will ensure maximum visibility and enquiry levels from day one.
6. Strengthen Your Tenant Selection Process
High-quality tenants are the foundation of a stress-free tenancy.
For 2026, ensure your referencing process includes:
- Full credit checks
- Employment and affordability verification
- Landlord references
- Right-to-rent compliance
- Optional guarantor assessments where appropriate
Choosing the right tenant reduces arrears, disputes, and wear-and-tear issues.
7. Plan for Portfolio Growth or Consolidation
2026 may offer strong opportunities for strategic portfolio decisions:
- Consider remortgaging to release equity
- Evaluate underperforming properties
- Explore higher-yield areas
- Assess opportunities for HMOs or furnished short lets
- Replace ageing stock with better-performing investments
A portfolio review helps identify properties that can grow, those that need refurbishing, and those that may be worth selling.
8. Choose the Right Level of Management for 2026
Landlord responsibilities are increasing, and legislation is becoming more complex.
Ask yourself:
- Do you have time to self-manage?
- Is your current agent proactive and compliant?
- Are you confident your property is legally protected?
- Have you received regular inspections, updates, and renewal advice?
Many landlords find that full property management not only reduces stress but actually increases long-term profitability by preventing voids and ensuring compliance.
