Stepping into the world of property investment is exciting — and in a place like Pontypridd, it’s also full of potential. With strong tenant demand, excellent transport links and proximity to Cardiff and Newport, Pontypridd is increasingly appealing to first-time landlords.
But 2025 is also a year of change. New legislation, evolving tenant expectations and a more regulated rental landscape mean that today’s landlords need to be well-informed and well-prepared.
I’m Rob Price, owner of Belvoir Pontypridd, and I’ve helped countless local landlords set up, scale and succeed in lettings. If you’re new to the sector or considering renting out a property this year, here’s what you need to know.
Why 2025 is a key moment for new landlords
Let’s start with the bigger picture. There’s strong momentum in the rental market right now:
- Demand for rental homes across South Wales is high
- Cardiff renters are increasingly looking north for affordability
- The University of South Wales continues to draw student tenants to Treforest
- Mortgage rates have started to settle, giving investors more clarity
At the same time, 2025 brings a number of legal and regulatory changes that every landlord must understand. Being compliant, responsive and well-informed has never been more important.
Understand the local rental market in 2025
Pontypridd and its surrounding areas (including Treforest, Tonteg, Church Village and Cilfynydd) have seen a consistent uptick in rental demand.
According to Rightmove’s Rental Trends Tracker, average rents in South Wales have risen by 5.8% year-on-year. In Pontypridd, many properties are letting within days, particularly well-maintained 2- and 3-bedroom homes.
Some local insights:
- CF37 & CF38: Average rent for a 2-bed home is around £750–£800 per month
- Student lets in Treforest: High demand between July and September, particularly for 3- and 4-bed HMOs
- Average gross yields: Around 6.5% for standard lets, up to 9% for student HMOs
Whether you’re investing for yield or future capital growth, Pontypridd offers a competitive starting point compared to nearby Cardiff or Newport.
Key rules and legal changes new landlords must know in 2025
This year, several key legislative shifts are either being introduced or coming into sharper focus. Here are the main ones to understand:
Renters Reform Bill
While this is UK-wide legislation, many elements will apply in Wales as well. Changes include:
- End of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions
- Revised grounds for possession under Section 8
- Mandatory compliance with a Decent Homes Standard
- Stronger protections for tenants on periodic tenancies
These reforms are designed to give tenants more security, while still allowing landlords to regain possession when needed (e.g. for selling or moving in).
Rent Smart Wales (Wales-specific)
Every landlord in Wales must be registered and either:
- Licensed to self-manage, or
- Use a licensed letting agent
Landlords who self-manage must also complete training and meet certain standards in property management.
Failure to register or license correctly can result in fines or bans. You can find out more here: https://www.rentsmart.gov.wales
EPC rules and energy efficiency
The UK government still plans to raise the minimum EPC rating for new tenancies to C, but deadlines have been pushed back. Nonetheless, improving your property’s energy efficiency now is a smart move:
- It reduces running costs (which tenants love)
- It makes your property more marketable
- Grants or funding may still be available
Other compliance musts
- Protecting the tenant’s deposit in a recognised scheme
- Carrying out Right to Rent checks
- Providing a valid Gas Safety Certificate and Electrical Safety Report
- Issuing a written tenancy agreement
If this feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. That’s why many new landlords choose to work with a professional lettings agent.
Learn more about our full landlord support service here.
Mortgage and finance tips for 2025 landlords
With interest rates stabilising and inflation cooling, the mortgage market is more predictable than it was a year ago — but still cautious.
If you’re financing your buy-to-let, keep in mind:
- Most lenders require a 25% deposit (some may accept 20% with higher rates)
- They typically assess affordability using rental stress tests (e.g. 125-145% of mortgage payments)
- First-time landlords may face stricter criteria or need a guarantor
It’s wise to speak to a specialist buy-to-let mortgage broker who understands the local market. A good broker can help you compare options, reduce your rate, or structure your purchase more tax-efficiently.
Choosing the right property to let in Pontypridd
Not all investment properties are equal. As a new landlord, you want something that’s easy to manage, attractive to tenants, and unlikely to throw up surprise costs.
Here’s what to look for:
- Location: Properties near the Treforest campus, Pontypridd train station, or town centre tend to perform well
- Condition: Modern kitchens and bathrooms reduce void periods and repair costs
- Layout: Simple layouts with well-proportioned bedrooms suit both families and sharers
- Outside space: A garden or parking space can add £50-£100/month in rental value
We also advise checking:
- EPC rating (aim for D or above)
- Likelihood of upcoming repairs (check the roof, boiler, windows)
- Local lettability — ask us for up-to-date tenant demand on your chosen street
What tenants are looking for in 2025
Tenant expectations have shifted over the past few years. To secure long-term tenants and reduce voids, consider the following priorities:
- Fast broadband (especially for remote workers and students)
- Energy efficiency: Double glazing, modern boilers, insulation
- Outdoor space: Even a small patio or yard adds value
- Pet-friendly policies: With fewer rentals allowing pets, this could make your property stand out
- Secure tenancy: Longer-term agreements and responsive landlords are a big draw
Common mistakes new landlords make (and how to avoid them)
Starting out can feel like trial and error, but you can avoid the most common pitfalls with the right preparation. Here are some missteps we often see:
1. Underestimating compliance
The legal side can be complex. Missing a certificate or licensing step can lead to fines or invalidated tenancies.
2. Overpricing the property
Setting rent too high leads to long voids and frustrated tenants. Use a local agent to assess realistic pricing.
3. Skipping proper referencing
Always run full background and credit checks, even if tenants seem reliable.
4. Forgetting to protect the deposit
It’s a legal requirement — and failing to do so can prevent you regaining possession later.
5. Trying to self-manage without time or knowledge
If you’re not local or don’t have experience, a managing agent can save you time, stress and money in the long run.
Rob’s advice: Think like a business, act like a neighbour
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt working with landlords in Pontypridd is that the best returns come from building strong, respectful relationships with your tenants. Yes, property is an investment — but it’s also someone’s home. If you treat your property professionally, respond quickly to issues, and price fairly, tenants stay longer, look after the place better, and your costs go down over time. It’s a win-win.”
Conclusion: Start your landlord journey with the right advice
2025 is shaping up to be a year of opportunity for landlords — especially in value-driven towns like Pontypridd. But it’s also a time when compliance, professionalism and local insight matter more than ever.
Whether you’re considering buying your first buy-to-let, turning an inherited property into a rental, or simply exploring your options, we’re here to help.
Book a free property consultation or rental valuation today.
Our team at Belvoir Pontypridd will give you honest advice, accurate figures, and expert guidance on everything from finding tenants to full management.
Because your first step into lettings should feel confident, supported, and built to last.
