What 11 years in Bristol’s rental market has taught me

Many estate agents that I have spoken to over the years “fell into” a job in our industry. Many estate agents will tend to stick around for a few years, then get drawn towards something seemingly more glamourous, such as recruitment. I am one of the few who chose a career in Lettings, which was a decision made following a spell working for the Deposit Protection Service. Thankfully, it is a decision that I have never once regretted.

When I started in Lettings back in 2015, 2 bedroom semi-detached houses located in the popular outskirts of Bristol (specifically BS32 and BS34) were letting, comfortably, for around £700 per month (exclusive of bills). 11 years down the line and those same houses are lettings for around double that figure. The thing I find even more surprising than this colossal increase, is the fact that high demand for rental properties in these areas has never really declined. Which indicates just how popular Bristol is amongst tenants.

Although tenant demand hasn’t changed, tenant’s expectations certainly have. Understandably, if tenants are expected to pay more rent, they expect properties to be offered to a higher standard. Over the years, I have gradually seen more and more requests on tenancy application forms from applicants who wish for Landlords to get work completed before they move in. Most notable works include painting walls and woodwork, professional cleaning, carpet cleaning and removing unwanted furniture. In my experience, it is fair to say that most Landlords have generally agreed to fair requests. The goal of course is to start and end the tenancy with both happy tenants and Landlords!

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