3 minute read

Is Your Rent Increase Justified – Or Is It Time to Reassess the Property?

This week I had a familiar conversation with a landlord:

I want to raise the rent from £1,075 to £1,200 – what do you think, Venessa?

And my honest answer?
That depends... on the property, the tenant, and the bigger picture.

You Can’t Just Raise Rent Because You Feel Like It

I get it—yields are squeezed, mortgage rates are up, and every penny counts.
But if your property hasn’t been updated, maintained, or even repainted in years… tenants will notice.

In this case, the landlord hadn’t reinvested since the tenant moved in two years ago. The home had been beautifully redecorated before the tenancy—but now? The wear and tear showed, and no improvements had been made since.

Rent increases need to be backed by value.

Is It Time for a Rethink?

You might be at a crossroads:

- Do you invest in updating the property to justify a higher rent?

- Do you keep a steady tenant and ride out the market?

- Or… is this the time to exit and cash out?

Because sometimes, the bigger win isn’t chasing £50 more in rent. It’s taking stock of your portfolio and asking:

Is this property still working for me?

Let’s Be Honest—Some Properties Are Underperforming

If your property feels tired, you’re feeling fatigued with constant repairs, or the rent just isn’t keeping pace, it might be time for a strategic review.

At VA, we help landlords figure out the best next move:

- Refurb and re-let
- Sell with vacant possession
- Review market rental value
- Exit gracefully with full support

You don’t have to figure this out alone.

Let’s talk options.

Get a FREE Valuation
Whether you’re staying in or thinking about selling, this is your starting point.

Join my inner circle

to get monthly insights, tips, and trends directly from me.

Best wishes,
Venessa Afonja
Director, VA Sales & Lettings