Autumn is a busy season in the rental market. As summer holidays fade and the new school and work terms begin, tenants across the UK refocus their search for the perfect place to call home. For landlords in Sleaford and beyond, this seasonal shift brings a fresh opportunity to attract high-quality renters – but only if your listings stand out.
At Belvoir Sleaford, we work closely with landlords to ensure their properties appeal to the right tenants, at the right time, for the right price. With autumn 2025 already showing strong demand, now is the time to update your listings and rethink how your property is presented online.
Here’s what tenants are prioritising in their searches this season – and how you can make sure your rental property ticks all the boxes.
How the autumn market impacts tenant behaviour
Autumn tends to bring a surge in rental enquiries, particularly in September and October. Families often look to settle before Christmas, students are still finding their feet, and professionals returning from summer breaks are making fresh starts.
According to the latest Rightmove Rental Trends Tracker, tenant demand rose by 11% in Q4 of 2024 compared with the same period in 2023. At the same time, the average time to let fell to just 17 days in high-demand areas.
But while competition remains high, tenants are also becoming more discerning. They’re searching smarter, favouring listings with clearer details, better photography, and modern features that make life easier.
So, what exactly are they looking for this autumn?
Top things tenants look for in rental listings this autumn
Energy efficiency and lower bills
With colder months ahead and the rising cost of energy, tenants are paying closer attention to running costs.
An EPC rating of C or above is becoming a top priority for many. Homes with better insulation, new boilers, smart thermostats or double glazing are more attractive because they help tenants save money – and stay warmer.
Top tip: Make sure your listing highlights the EPC rating and any upgrades you’ve made, like a new heating system or extra loft insulation.
Fast internet and remote-working suitability
Remote and hybrid work is here to stay. Many tenants now factor broadband speed and work-from-home space into their decision-making.
Properties with reliable fibre connections and a spare room, dining nook or quiet corner for a desk stand out. Even a well-placed plug socket and good natural light can tip the balance.
Top tip: If your property has full-fibre broadband, say so. Mention any spaces suitable for remote work in your description and include a photo that shows it clearly.
Flexible or pet-friendly terms
Autumn often sees tenants who are planning longer stays – families, couples or professionals looking to settle for six months or more.
More tenants are also searching with pets. In fact, Zoopla’s Q3 2024 Renter Report showed a 32% increase in searches filtered by “pet-friendly” terms compared to the previous year.
Landlords who are open to flexibility or allow pets (with conditions) can attract a broader range of renters.
Top tip: Avoid blanket bans in your listing. Instead, mention flexibility, pet insurance requirements or case-by-case acceptance.
Stylish interiors and ready-to-move-in condition
With colder evenings drawing in, most tenants want to move into somewhere that feels homely from the outset. Tired decor, broken fixtures or poor lighting can really put people off – especially in darker months.
Neutral tones, clean finishes and bright, clear imagery go a long way. A property that looks well cared for in autumn light feels instantly more inviting.
Top tip: Use updated, professional photographs that show your property at its best. Include shots of the kitchen, bathroom, and any standout features like fireplaces or bay windows.
Outdoor space and storage
While summer has passed, outside space still matters. Tenants are looking for gardens that are easy to maintain, balconies with room for a chair, or even just good views.
Storage is another quiet dealbreaker. A property with a built-in cupboard, under-stairs area or shed can feel more practical, especially for families or sharers.
Top tip: List storage features clearly in the description and show off any clean, well-kept outdoor areas with a seasonal photo.
Proximity to transport, schools and amenities
Location continues to be one of the biggest factors for tenants.
Whether it’s being near a good school, within walking distance of town, or close to a bus stop or train station, renters want to know how easy life will be day-to-day.
Top tip: Mention the name and distance of key transport links, supermarkets, schools, and leisure spots in your listing. Use phrases like “10 minutes’ walk from Sleaford train station” or “In catchment for X Primary School” to boost relevance in search.
What makes a rental listing stand out on Rightmove and Zoopla
Most tenants start their search on a portal like Rightmove or Zoopla. With hundreds of listings available, standing out is all about detail, clarity and presentation.
Key elements of a high-performing listing:
- Clear, benefits-led headline (e.g. “Pet-friendly two-bed with garden and home office”)
- High-resolution photos showing clean, bright rooms
- Bullet points for standout features
- Mention of EPC rating, broadband, parking, outdoor space
- Honest and friendly description (avoid estate agent jargon)
- Transparent info about deposit, tenancy length and bill exclusions
Rightmove data shows that listings with 5 or more good-quality photos get up to 25% more views than those with fewer. Similarly, listings that mention pet-friendly terms or flexible tenancies receive higher enquiry rates.
Common mistakes that reduce interest in rental listings
Even great properties can underperform if the listing is rushed or unclear. Some of the most common errors we see include:
- Poor-quality images – dark, blurry or outdated photos instantly turn people away
- Vague descriptions – not mentioning key features or local benefits
- Jargon-filled language – terms like “deceptively spacious” or “early viewing advised” feel generic and overused
- Hidden or unclear costs – failing to list deposit amount, or whether bills are included
- Missing floorplans – tenants want to see how the space flows
Top tip: Imagine you were a tenant. What would you want to know? Make sure your listing answers those questions quickly and clearly.
How Belvoir Sleaford helps landlords attract the best tenants
We know what local tenants are searching for – and how to present your property to match.
At Belvoir Sleaford, we offer:
- Expert listing creation with market-relevant descriptions
- Professional photography and image optimisation
- Floorplans and measurements included as standard
- Advice on styling and minor improvements for higher rent returns
- Real-time market comparisons to help you price competitively
- Tenant screening and full referencing
- Managed viewings and offer negotiation
Our aim is to reduce your void periods, increase your rental yield and give you full peace of mind.
Whether you’re letting a single property or managing a portfolio, we’re here to help.
Request a free rental valuation today.
Final thoughts
This autumn, tenants are looking beyond just the basics. They want homes that are affordable to run, well-connected, stylish and functional. And they want listings that are easy to understand, quick to engage with and backed by trustworthy landlords.
If you’re a landlord in Sleaford and want to maximise your property’s appeal, now is the time to act. Letting success often starts with the listing – and that’s where Belvoir Sleaford makes all the difference.
To see how your property could perform this autumn, get in touch for a free rental appraisal or advice on making your listing stand out.
Book your free rental valuation here.
