How to Respond When Your Landlord Raises Rent

How your landlord can increase rent changes on 1 May 2026. Here’s what you can expect and how to deal with a rent increase you think is unfair.

There are plenty of good things about renting but most renters - and lots of landlords - will agree that rent increases aren’t one of them.

Aside from feeling quite unfair, a rent rise can be an unwelcome dent to your budget. Probably the last thing you need right now.

But landlords have the right to increase your rent from time to time, even if they’re reluctant to do so. How landlords can do this is changing from 1 May 2026, thanks to the Renters’ Rights Act.

So let’s go through what’s changing. We’ll explain when your landlord can increase your rent, how much they can increase it by and the steps you can take to challenge a rise that feels unfair.

Can my landlord increase my rent?

Landlords will keep the right to increase your rent. The Renters’ Rights Act will, however, limit rent increases to just once per year.

Rent review clauses, which allowed landlords to increase the rent more than once a year, will be banned. If you have one of these clauses in your tenancy agreement, it won’t apply after 1 May 2026.

What will happen to my fixed-term contract?

The majority of fixed-term contracts, also known as Assured Shorthold Tenancies, will automatically become Assured Periodic Tenancies on 1 May 2026.

Any rent review clause that was in your old tenancy agreement will not apply.

How will my landlord tell me about a rent increase?

Your landlord will have to use a Section 13 notice to increase the rent.

As a tenant, you will be notified by receiving Form 4A. This will show you when your last rent increase was and what new rent your landlord wants to charge.

How much notice should I get before a rent increase?

Notice periods will be standardised for renters. You must be given two months’ notice before any rent increase takes effect.

How much can my landlord increase my rent by?

The Renters’ Rights Act is designed to stop landlords charging what they like.

Any increase must be no higher than the open market rent. The Government classes this as ‘the price that would be achieved if the property was newly advertised to let’.

What would be classed as an unfair increase?

Government guidance says: if you’re renting a two bedroom flat for £800 but similar flats in the area are renting for £1,000, it’s fair to expect a landlord to ask for the £200 per month increase.

But a proposed jump to £1,200 for this flat usually wouldn’t meet the ‘fair and realistic’ standard, so you’d be within your rights to challenge it.

Our Rental Market Report for March 2026 tells you what the average rent is in your region or closest city.

Step by step: what to do if your landlord wants to increase your rent

1. Familiarise yourself with The Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet 2026

The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026 is a document that tells you how landlords can increase the rent, by how much and what you can do if you’re not happy with a suggested rise.

2. Read your Form 4A

This will tell you how much your landlord wants to increase your rent by. Make a note of the proposed sum.

3. Look at what similar properties are renting for nearby

The next thing to do is make sure the proposed rent increase is in line with open market rents in your area.

Search properties to rent, using the filters to find similar size, type and condition homes to yours.

Don’t forget, you can also check our Rental Market Report for March 2026 to see the latest rents and rises in your region.

Knowing what similar properties currently cost to rent is essential if challenging a rent increase.

4. Speak to your landlord or letting agent

Whatever you’ve found out so far, it’s time to have a conversation with your landlord or letting agent.

If you don’t think the proposed increase is fair, show them the similar rental properties you’ve found.

Stay calm and professional, ask questions and make sure you really understand why your landlord is increasing the rent to the suggested rate.

The letting agent will be able to help both parties see each other’s point of view and help you come to an agreement.

5. See if there’s room to negotiate on the rent increase

You can respectfully ask the letting agent if the landlord is open to negotiation if you feel the rent increase is too high.

Explain your situation and the impact an increase will have on you. Suggest a rent that you think is fair based on current open market rents.

Your landlord may negotiate on price rather than risk losing you as a tenant.

Hopefully you can reach an agreement that’s fair for you and your landlord.

What can I do if my landlord is adamant about the increase?

If you can’t reach an agreement, you have two options: cut your losses and look for a new place or challenge the rent increase.

Neither are ideal options - particularly if you love where you live - but weigh up the increased rent against the upheaval and cost of moving house.

Get support to pay your rent

Another option is looking into the financial support you could get to pay rent.

You could get help to pay rent from:

• Universal Credit

• A Council Tax reduction

• A budgeting loan (if you’re already on benefits)

• A discretionary housing payment from your local council (if you’re already on benefits)

How to challenge a rent increase

You can take your challenge to the First-tier Tribunal’s residential property division.

The Government is making it easier for tenants to challenge rent rises by keeping costs low. An application to challenge a rent increase will cost £47, with no hearing fee. There will also be funding available for those who can’t afford to make a challenge.

Be aware, the tribunal may rule in your landlord’s favour. The Renters’ Rights Act will, however, ban tribunals from increasing the rent beyond the landlord’s suggested increase.

Keep paying your rent on time - but not at the proposed higher rate

Make sure you apply to the tribunal before the increased rent is due to start. This date will be on the Form 4A.

Keep paying your usual rent while waiting for the tribunal’s decision, otherwise you could fall into rent arrears and face eviction.

But don’t pay the proposed higher rate until the tribunal gives its decision. You could be seen to have agreed to the new rate if you do.

Backdated higher rent payments will be banned, even if your challenge is unsuccessful. The new rent will only apply from the date of the tribunal’s decision.

How the tribunal works

First-tier Tribunal hearings are normally overseen by a legally-qualified judge and a panel of tribunal members. It is the tribunal who decides what a fair rent is.

They’ll look at your current rent, what your landlord wants to increase this to and the current open market rent for a similar property where you live. This will help them decide if the rent increase is fair.

Tribunals will receive a new power to defer rent increases by up to a further two months in cases of ‘undue hardship’.

If the tribunal decides the increase is fair but you don’t want to pay it, you’ll have to move out.

You may be able to challenge a First-tier Tribunal decision by appealing to the Upper Tribunal but specialist advice is recommended.

 

Key takeaways

• The Renters’ Rights Act will limit rent increases to once per year
• Any increase must be no higher than the open market rent
• Rent review clauses will be banned
• Your landlord must use a Section 13 notice to increase the rent
• You must be given at least two months’ notice before a rent increase takes effect
• It’ll be inexpensive for you to challenge a rent rise if you think it’s unfair

 

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by Blackstones

Landlord Compliance in 2026: Navigating UK Rent Increase Rules

With the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force on 1 May 2026, informal rent adjustments are no longer permissible. Landlords are now required to adhere to formalised procedures, ensure any increase aligns with prevailing market rates, and provide extended notice periods in order to remain fully compliant with the law.

With the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force from 1 May 2026, rent increases are about to get far more regulated.

The Act introduces clearer rules designed to protect tenants from unfair or excessive rises.

Rent increases are now a more formal legal process governed by strict rules.

For landlords, this means rent reviews must be approached carefully and formally. But with the correct procedures and market evidence, you can adjust rents confidently while staying within the law.

How often can I increase rent under the Renters’ Rights Act?

In most cases, rent can only be increased once per year. And there can be no increase within the first 52 weeks (1 year) of a new tenancy.

This removes the flexibility you might have previously relied on and reinforces the need to set realistic rents from the outset.

Contractual rent review clauses written into tenancy agreements will be abolished and rendered void under the new Act.

Attempting to increase rent more frequently, or without following the correct statutory process, could result in disputes or legal challenges.

Kristjan Byfield, Mission Commander at The Depository, issues a word of advice for landlords planning a rent increase:

“How your tenants are cared for during their tenancy will likely dictate how your rent review process will go. Make sure you have tenants that genuinely love living in your homes - and be fair when reviewing the rent.

“Tenants are about to decide when they leave and what a rent review process looks like, so give them every reason to stay.”

Let’s get into the rules about increasing rent under the Renters’ Rights Act.

When do I need to use a Section 13 notice?

Informal agreements, such as verbal conversations or casual emails, are no longer sufficient.

As all tenancies will convert to periodic (rolling) tenancies, you must always use the prescribed legal mechanism: a Section 13 notice.

This is a formal statutory document that clearly sets out the proposed new rent and the exact date it will take effect.

Finally, you should keep detailed records of all rent reviews, communications and any Section 13 notices you have served. This not only supports compliance but also provides protection in the event of a dispute.

How much can I increase rent under the Renters’ Rights Act?

You can increase rent up to the current fair market rate. That means you should go by what the property would fetch if it were newly advertised to let today.

Before proposing an increase, research local market rents and be prepared to justify your decision.

Letting agents can provide useful benchmarks, helping ensure your figures are realistic and defensible.

Find a letting agent near me

Under the new system, tenants have stronger rights to dispute rent increases they believe exceed market value.

These challenges may be referred to a First-tier Tribunal, which will assess whether the proposed rent aligns with comparable properties in the area.

Crucially, the Tribunal can no longer set the rent higher than what the landlord initially proposed, meaning tenants effectively have ‘nothing to lose’ by challenging a hike.

The Tribunal will also no longer backdate increases, and the new rent will only apply from the date of the Tribunal's decision.

When you’re thinking about increasing rent, it’s worth considering tenant relationships. While the law may allow for an increase, large or sudden jumps can lead to dissatisfaction, increased turnover and void periods.

That means a measured, market-aligned approach will be more sustainable in the long term.

How much notice must I give before increasing rent?

Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, the mandatory notice period for a Section 13 rent increase has been extended. You must provide your tenant with 2 months' written notice before the new rental amount comes into effect.

This notice period gives tenants more time to review the increase and, if necessary, challenge it.

How can a letting agent help with increasing rent?

Navigating the new legal landscape of the Renters' Rights Act can feel daunting. Rent reviews are now a strictly regulated legal procedure, so leaning on a professional letting agent can help protect your investment.

A good agent takes the guesswork out of the process by providing accurate, evidence-based market valuations. Since the new rules cap rent hikes at the current market rate, an agent’s access to hyper-local data ensures your proposed increase is fair, defensible and less likely to be challenged at a tribunal.

If a tenant does dispute the increase, your agent will be invaluable in compiling the necessary portfolio of comparable properties to justify the new rent. This handles any pushback objectively, preserving your relationship with the tenant and turning a potential legal minefield into a smooth, fully documented process.

Kristjan’s top tip for those already using a letting agent? Take this chance to get your tenants’ perspective.

“If you have a managing agent, now might be a good time to reach out to your tenants directly to see what their rental experience is like. There’s nothing like hearing things first hand and the Act means that great rental experiences will be even more vital in shaping top-performing property portfolios.”

Key takeaways

• From 1 May 2026, rent cannot be increased within the first year of a tenancy, and only once a year after that, using a Section 13 notice.
• Proposed increases cannot exceed the current fair market rate.
• Tenants now have stronger, risk-free rights to challenge hikes at a tribunal.
• You must give tenants a full 2 months' written notice before an increase takes effect.
• Documentation, market research and professional support can help you adjust rents while staying within the law.

 

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by Blackstones

The Renters' Rights Act: What It Means and How to Prepare

As the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force, it brings wide-ranging implications across the lettings market. This guide breaks down the core changes, from eviction reforms to rent controls and tenant rights regarding pets.

Do you know how the Renters’ Rights Act will affect your tenancy? Thinking of renting but not sure what the new legislation means?

Our guide to what’s changing will help you navigate your renting journey, whether you're new to renting, an existing tenant or a landlord.

What is the Renters’ Rights Act?

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is a landmark piece of UK housing legislation designed to reform the private rented sector.

Having received Royal Assent in October 2025, the Act represents the most significant update to tenant and landlord laws in nearly 40 years.

The Act comes with a lot of changes that will affect both landlords and tenants. Its primary purpose is to rebalance the rental market, providing more security and stability for private renters across England.

When does the Renters’ Rights Act start?

The Renters’ Rights Act will come into effect in phases. The first big milestone is 1 May 2026, when we’ll see changes like new rules for evicting a tenant and the switch from fixed terms to periodic tenancies.

There will be more changes later in 2026, including a new ombudsman. And beyond that, there will be new EPC rating requirements and a Decent Homes Standard.

Renters’ Rights Act changes from 1 May 2026

New eviction process

Your landlord will need a valid reason to evict you, known as a ground for possession. You can find a list of the new, revised and existing grounds on the government’s website. There are new notice periods too, which may allow you to stay in your home for longer.

Landlords will still be allowed to sell their property but they won’t be able to use this reason during the first 12 months of your tenancy. In addition to waiting 12 months, your landlord must give you at least 4 months’ notice.

Notice periods do depend on the reason for the eviction. If you are involved in severe anti-social or criminal behaviour, for example, your landlord doesn’t need to give any notice.

Evictions for rent arrears

A landlord can use Ground 8 (severe rent arrears) to evict you but they will have to wait longer to serve notice. This gives you more time to repay arrears.

A landlord will only be able to use Ground 8 once you owe at least 3 months’ rent (or 13 weeks’ rent for a weekly tenancy). The notice period for severe arrears is also doubling, from 2 weeks to 4 weeks.

Landlords can use Ground 10 if you have arrears of less than 3 months, or Ground 11 if you frequently pay your rent late. It would, however, be up to a court to decide if the landlord’s eviction request was reasonable.

Challenging evictions

You will still be able to challenge a landlord’s decision to evict you in court. This applies if you think your landlord is acting unfairly or if they haven’t followed the correct eviction procedure.

End of fixed-term tenancies

‘Rolling’ periodic tenancies will become the only type of contract offered. If you currently have a fixed term tenancy, it will automatically switch to a periodic one on 1 May 2026.

Periodic tenancies will allow you to end your tenancy when it suits you, as long as you give your landlord 2 months’ notice.

Bidding wars banned

The price you see a property advertised for will be the price you pay, thanks to a ban on bidding wars between tenants.

Landlords and letting agents will set an asking price and stick to it. They must refuse higher offers, even if the tenant is willing to pay more.

Rent increase limits

Landlords will be limited to increasing your rent to once a year, using a Section 13 notice. And when they do so, they must set an increase that’s in line with local market rates.

If you think a rent increase is unreasonable, you’ll be able to challenge it at the First-tier Tribunal. A challenge will be at a low fee, with no hearing cost.

Cap on rent in advance

Rent in advance is being capped at 1 month’s rent. The limit is designed to prevent tenants overcommitting themselves financially.

Rent in advance is usually paid between signing the agreement and the tenancy starting. You can still volunteer any sum of upfront rent during your tenancy.

End to discrimination

You won’t be excluded from the rental market just because you have children or receive benefits. Rental discrimination will be banned, with decisions based on affordability and referencing.

Right to request a pet

You’ll have a new right to request to keep a pet after you’ve moved into a property. Your landlord must consider the request. If they refuse, they have to give you a valid reason in writing.

You’ll be able to take action if you think your landlord’s pet refusal is unfair. Complaints can be lodged with a new private rented sector ombudsman or taken to court.

Renters’ Rights Act changes later in 2026

Private rented sector ombudsman

You’ll have free access to a new private rented sector ombudsman. Landlords will be obliged to sign up.

The ombudsman will handle complaints about fees, maintenance, compliance and communication. The aim will be to avoid disputes going to court.

Private rented sector database

A new private rented sector database will launch later this year. Like the ombudsman, landlords will have to sign up.

The database will be free and open for tenants to use. You’ll be able to check who you’re renting from and see documents about property standards.

Renters’ Right Act changes in the future

A new EPC grade

Lower fuel bills and reduced carbon emissions will become a reality for more renters. By 2030, most privately rented homes will need an EPC rating of C or better. Your landlord will be responsible for making eco improvements.

Decent Homes Standard

Every privately rented home will eventually need to meet a new Decent Homes Standard. Landlords will become legally obliged to ensure their properties are safe, secure and hazard free.

Awaab’s Law

Awaab’s Law will empower tenants to challenge dangerous conditions. It will also force landlords to make repairs within a set time period.

Key takeaways

• Most reforms will take place on 1 May 2026. Tenants will have new rights and better protection.
• Rent increases will be limited to once a year and rent in advance will be capped to 1 months’ rent.
• ‘No fault’ evictions will be banned. Instead, your landlord must have a valid reason from a Government list to evict you.
• Discrimination against tenants with children and those receiving benefits will end.
• Future reforms include a new landlord database and an ombudsman, so renting becomes a safer and more transparent experience.
• If your tenancy started before 1 May 2026, your landlord or letting agent must send you an information sheet. This will confirm what’s changing.

 

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by Blackstones

The most affordable UK cities to buy a home solo

Happily single or just not ready to tie your credit score to your plus-one?

Our latest analysis is for you: pinpointing the regional hotspots where a single salary actually goes the distance.

And it’s something the savviest of solo buyers are cottoning on to, as the dream of buying alone becomes more of a reality in 2026.

Thanks to relaxed affordability rules that came in last year and average mortgage rates cooling to around 4%, buying a home on a single income is much more achievable this year. In fact, single buyers now make up 39% of all first-time purchases.

From Aberdeen to Plymouth, your perfect match might be closer (and more affordable) than you think.

The most affordable city to buy a house in each UK region

 

Key takeaways

• Lower mortgage rates and relaxed affordability rules mean buying alone is easier in 2026
• We’ve looked at local wages and house prices to find the most affordable cities to buy on a single income across the UK
• Aberdeen is the most affordable city for singles while Sunderland offers England’s lowest solo mortgage
• Buyers are beating the ‘single tax’ by choosing affordable regional alternatives like Peterborough over Cambridge and Swansea over Cardiff

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by Blackstones

Ditch the Layers: Why 2026 New Builds are Killing the "Woolly Hat" WFH Look

If your WFH uniform currently involves a puffer jacket and fingerless gloves, you’re likely dreading the next energy app notification. We’ve all been there trying to type while shivering. But 2026’s new builds are flipping the script. Engineered to the latest Future Homes Standard, these properties are designed to trap every watt of warmth, keeping your home cozy and your 'bill shock' a thing of the past.

We’ve all felt it lately. That sharp intake of breath when the energy bill lands in your inbox and feels more like a mortgage statement.

Whether you’re living in a Victorian terrace, a charming cottage or a ‘40s semi, the sting of modern energy costs is a universal experience.

Unless you live in a new build, that is.

Because a new build isn't just a fresh start. In reality, they’re built for energy preservation and efficiency down to their very bones - like a thermal blanket for your finances.

From high-spec insulation and air-source heat pumps to solar panels and EV chargers, these homes save you serious money on energy bills every month.

Let’s see exactly how much of a difference that makes compared to an older home, with the latest cold, hard facts from the Home Builders Federation and Octopus Energy.

New builds save you over £420 every year

The most immediate energy-related benefit of a new build is the savings in your monthly bills.

On average, new-build homes are 21% cheaper to run than older properties because they’re far more energy efficient.

New build homeowners spend an average of £1,574 a year on energy, compared with £1,995 for those in older homes - a saving of £421.

If you’re moving from a property with an F or G EPC rating, you’ll feel even more of a saving. A new build is £618 a year cheaper to run.

You pay a 27% energy premium in older homes

Living in an older home effectively means paying a 27% premium just to keep the rooms warm.

People living in typical older homes spent an average of 27% more on overall energy costs last year compared to new build owners.

For those in F and G rated homes, that figure jumps to 39%.

We all want to do our bit for the planet. A new build cuts your household carbon emissions by up to 74% every year compared to the least efficient older homes.

Virtually all new builds have an A or B rating, emitting around 2,179kg of carbon annually.

On the other hand, a typical older home (EPC D) produces 3,266kg (50% more). F or G rated homes produce 3,787kg, which is 74% more than a new build.

The expensive alternative: Retrofitting an older home to modern standards

Your home is your biggest asset, and energy efficiency is now a major driver of market value.

Research by Octopus Energy found that heat pumps, solar PV and EV charging points can add a 6% premium to a home's market value.

But retrofitting comes at a cost.

Upgrading an older home to match the energy efficiency of a modern new build is a massive undertaking, costing between £23,100 and £83,000.

Energy efficiency isn’t the only benefit

If the lower bills haven’t already convinced you to pack your bags, there’s more to a new build than just a friendly relationship with your smart meter.

Choosing new comes with a few major perks that make the moving process - and life afterwards - a lot less stressful.

Exclusive buying schemes: One of the biggest wins is the leg-up to actually get through the door. From Own New Rate Reducer to Shared Ownership,  there are a range of new-build schemes that make the maths of buying a home work in your favour.

Long-term warranties: Normally, a leaky roof or a temperamental boiler is your week (and savings) ruined. But most new builds come with a 10-year warranty, which is essentially peace of mind in a contract.

The blank canvas and personalisation: You don't have to spend your first 6 months remedying somebody else’s ‘creative’ DIY choices. You get a fresh, neutral space from day one and many developers let you pick your own kitchen units, tiling, flooring and more.

 

Key takeaways

• New builds are 21% cheaper to run than older homes, putting an extra £421 a year back in your pocket
• You can slash your household emissions by up to 74% (without having to recycle your own bathwater or live by candlelight)
• High-tech features like solar panels and heat pumps can add 6% to your home’s value - but the total cost of retrofitting an older home to modern standards costs anywhere from £23,100 to £83,000

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by Blackstones

Five winter home features that could add £20,000 to your property value

If your home comes into its own when frost bites and the woodburner is glowing, you may be sitting on a seasonal advantage. Our data shows that colder weather can give a winter-ready home a noticeable boost to its asking price.

While some of us are still finishing off the leftover cheese, the UK housing market has already hit the ground running. If you’re thinking of selling, it’s a prime moment: now is the busiest time of year for property searches on Zoopla. Thousands of people are kicking off the new year with a resolution to find a new home.

And here’s the key: when buyers are viewing homes right now they’re not looking for sun-drenched patios or swimming pools.

We asked our network of expert estate agents how much they would market homes with certain features for in winter versus other times of the year. They based their valuations on an average 3-bed property with an asking price of £324,000.

And the results are telling: 'winter warmer' features could net you a serious premium during the colder months. A nearly-£20,000 kind of serious premium.

Here are the 5 features that add the most value to asking prices in winter.

1. A traditional wood-burning fireplace: +£4,568

Right now a woodburner represents the dream of cosy evenings and slow Sundays when it’s cold outside. In fact, 38% of homebuyers say they would be prepared to pay more for a home with a traditional fireplace.

Beyond the vibes, there’s a practical perk: a woodburner is thought to shave about 10% off heating bills, which is a neat selling point when energy costs are high.

This is why estate agents say a woodburner adds about 1.41% to your asking price. If you have one, make sure it’s lit for viewings. A roaring fire really can be the difference between a 'maybe' and an offer.

2. Quality insulation: +£4,536

It may not be the most glamorous feature, but when energy bills are front of mind, a home that holds its warmth is a major selling point. With only 52% of UK homes achieving an EPC rating of C or higher, buyers are increasingly keen for future-proofing against high bills and low efficiency.

Showing your home is a fortress against the frost adds roughly 1.4% to your home’s market value, according to estate agents. It’s the house-selling equivalent of wearing a really sensible thermal vest.

3. Underfloor heating: +£3,985

Stepping onto a warm kitchen floor when it’s 2 degrees outside? As far as we’re concerned, there’s no greater luxury.

Underfloor heating is the hidden value-add that makes a home feel premium, and it’s surprisingly energy efficient. It's estimated to use about 12% less energy than traditional radiators because it operates at lower temperatures.

Our estate agents said that underfloor heating adds roughly 1.23% to your asking price in winter. Make sure it’s turned on an hour before viewers arrive - and stick to that ‘shoes off’ policy for full effect.

4. Other energy efficiency measures: +£3,402

High-spec double glazing and efficient boilers are the quiet heroes of the January market. Around 41% of buyers say they would be prepared to pay extra for a home with good energy efficiency, and estate agents reckon it adds 1.05% to your price tag.

In an era where new builds are saving owners nearly £1,000 a year on bills compared to older stock, showing that your property can keep up is vital for protecting your price. It gives buyers peace of mind that their home will be cost-effective to run through the rest of the winter.

5. An AGA-style range cooker: +£3,337

An AGA isn't just an oven, it's a lifestyle statement. It provides a literal heart to the home that homebuyers find incredibly hard to resist, and 26% say they would pay more for a house that has one.

Estate agents say that AGAs add roughly 1.03% to your home’s value. Plus, it gives you a great excuse to have some fresh brownies sitting on the counter, which is the oldest trick in the book for a reason.

The agent’s take

Claire Carter, Country House Associate Director at John D Wood & Co. said:

“The country housing market in particular has always had a natural rhythm with the seasons - not just in terms of features, but location too. It’s not necessarily the case that features add value, but they become more emotionally compelling - a roaring fire on a cold winter’s day or a glorious garden in summer can absolutely tip a buyer’s decision.

“The time of year matters hugely for presentation, for example, a house photographed in January looks completely different by May. When selling in winter, I always encourage my clients to light the fire and turn on the underfloor heating because nobody wants to feel chilly on a viewing. During summer, it is all about showing the house in its element with blooming gardens, blue skies, and sun-dappled terraces.

“Ultimately, selling a house is about capturing the imagination of buyers and helping them to imagine their life there, whatever the season.”

What could you sell for?

The research clearly demonstrates that homebuyers are swayed by the season, and in some cases, certain features can help sellers achieve more for their home. For the first time, we’ve put a hard figure on how much value these features add with the help of our estate agent partners.

But every home is different, so bear in mind that these are averages and estimates. If you’re thinking of selling, get bespoke advice from several local estate agents. They’ll be able to advise if your unique home might be more desirable and command a higher asking price during winter, spring, summer or autumn.

Key takeaways

• The first few months of the year are a peak time for buyer activity on Zoopla, with pent-up demand from the festive break leading to a spike in property searches.

• Homes with certain features, like woodburners and underfloor heating, can see a boost in value during the winter months when they are most ‘in season’.

• Nearly half of buyers (47%) admit they paid more for a property because they were swayed by seasonal features that made the home feel comfortable and inviting.

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by Blackstones

Budget-friendly places to rent without sacrificing quality of life

Trying to keep rent costs down? This guide reveals the most affordable places to rent across the UK in 2026.

The rental market is finally beginning to rebalance. After years of rapid rent increases, conditions are easing, with rents now rising at a much slower pace.

Our latest trends shows rents are just 2.2% higher than a year ago — the slowest rate of rental growth in four years. As of December 2025, the average UK rent stands at £1,320 per month, or £18,840 a year.

This slowdown is being driven by a narrowing gap between supply and demand. Rental demand has fallen by around 20% over the past year, while the number of available rental homes has increased by 15%.

For renters, this means more choice, less competition, and reduced pressure on household budgets.

Average rents in UK regions

The North East is the cheapest region to rent in the UK. The average rent here is £760 per calendar month (pcm), which is a rise of 4.5% in the last year.

It’s followed by Northern Ireland (£854 pcm), Yorkshire and the Humber (£869 pcm) and Scotland (£882 pcm).

In expensive areas like London, rents have hit an 'affordability ceiling' - people simply can't pay any more. Meanwhile, in traditionally cheaper areas, prices are jumping as people move further out to find a bargain.

London’s average rent of £2,224 pcm makes it almost twice as pricey to rent than anywhere else in the country. The capital is followed by the South East, East of England and South West.

10 cheapest cities to rent a home in 2026

If the world (or UK) is your oyster when it comes to relocating, these cities are your best bet for keeping your bank balance happy. These spots tend to have lower local living costs and many are commutable of larger nearby cities.

Cheapest districts to rent by region

If you're after a bargain without relocating too far, your best bet is to look at local authorities within each region. Here's a breakdown of the cheapest districts to rent across the UK and what makes them stand out (in order from the cheapest region to the most expensive).

1. North East

The North East remains the most budget-friendly corner of the UK when it comes to renting. Hartlepool is the bargain champion, offering coastal living for a fraction of the rents you'd find down south.

County Durham has great countryside, historic landmarks and low rents, while Redcar and Cleveland’s low average rents make it one of the UK’s most affordable seaside spots.

2. Scotland

As the cheapest place to rent in Scotland, East Ayrshire has an average monthly rent of £602 - but it's seeing strong rental rises. It's a good example of how rents are rising the fastest in the places with more affordable rental rates. For East Ayrshire, this is the 'Glasgow effect' - people are moving further out to find value, which in turn drives up local rents.

Also on the list is Dumfries and Galloway, a scenic region known for its rugged coastline and charming market towns.

3. Yorkshire and the Humber

Kingston-upon-Hull - more commonly known as Hull - is an affordable port city with a vibrant arts scene, making it a popular choice for renters in 2026 and explaining the 5.6% jump in rents this year. North East and North Lincolnshire are also affordable options in this region, with rents sitting under £700 pcm across the district.

4. East Midlands

The East Midlands offers plenty of affordable gems when it comes to rental homes. Rents are rising steadily as the region becomes a massive hub for logistics and remote workers.

East Lindsey is a coastal district known for its lovely beaches, perfect for those seeking a tranquil, scenic lifestyle on a budget. Bassetlaw offers a blend of rural tranquility and excellent transport links, with key towns like Worksop and Retford, while Bolsover is seeing growth as its historic charm attracts commuters from Sheffield.

5. Wales

The Valleys remain the best place for a bargain in Wales, although it's seeing above-average rental growth as more people trade the city for the stunning Mid-Wales countryside. Look to Powys, Blaenau Gwent, and Merthyr Tydfil for the best rental value, with many spots offering good travel links to Cardiff and Swansea.

6. North West

The Burnley, Allerdale and Pendle districts have low rents compared to the rest of the UK, but they are seeing higher-than-average annual growth. All offer good commuting options and access to landscapes like the Pennines and Lake District.

7. West Midlands

Stoke-on-Trent is an affordable base for renters in the West Midlands with an average rent of £752 pcm within easy reach of Birmingham. Staffordshire Moorlands is another cheap option for rents, and the affordable East Staffordshire has a number of popular market towns with good connections to Birmingham and Nottingham.

8. South West

The South West sits among the pricier regions to rent a home, but North Devon is a good choice for affordability. Torridge offers charming historic villages, a peaceful rural lifestyle and average rents of £809 pcm while West Devon - the gateway to Dartmoor National Park - is growing in popularity among renters, contributing to strong 10.1% annual rental growth.

9. East of England

In a region typically known for higher rents, Waveney offers a seaside escape with low rents. The towns of Lowestoft and Southwold are ideal for those wanting a coastal lifestyle with good affordability.

Great Yarmouth in Norfolk is a popular seaside resort with vibrant history and affordable rents, while Fenland in Cambridgeshire offers a rural lifestyle with rents that are significantly lower than the regional average

10. South East

The South East is second to only London when it comes to the most expensive places to rent a home, but the Isle of Wight offers lower prices with coastal charm and a relaxed pace of life.

Thanet is known for its popular seaside towns like Margate and Broadstairs, with affordable rents drawing more Londoners to the Kent coast in recent years. Dover’s good transport links to London also make it a popular choice for commuters.

11. London

"Cheapest" in London is relative, but Croydon stands out for its comparative affordability. It's a vibrant urban hub with excellent transport links and ongoing regeneration.

Sutton is a highly sought-after borough with a strong community feel, top schools and plenty of green spaces on the outskirts of the city, while Bexley’s mix of suburban living and transport links have pushed rents up by 4.7% in the last year.

Key takeaways

• Renters are finally seeing some relief as price hikes slow down and the frantic competition for homes begins to ease.
• Rental costs still vary wildly by location, with the North East offering the best rental value while London remains the most expensive.
• Burnley, Sunderland, and Hull top the list for the cheapest rents in UK cities in 2026.
• We’ve mapped out the best value spots in every region to help you find a cheaper rental home without leaving the area you love.

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by Blackstones