If you own a property in Cardiff and you’re considering becoming a landlord, you’re not alone. The rental market here is thriving, and with more people than ever choosing to rent, landlords have plenty of opportunities. But before you take the plunge, it’s important to pause and ask the right questions.
At Belvoir Cardiff, we’ve worked with hundreds of landlords across the city, from first-timers letting out a flat in Cathays, to seasoned investors with portfolios in Llanishen, Pontcanna, and Cardiff Bay. One thing we’ve learned is this: successful letting starts with preparation.
So, if you’re wondering how to get started, here are five essential questions to ask yourself before you let your Cardiff property in 2025.
1. Who are my ideal tenants?
Cardiff’s rental market is diverse, and that’s what makes it so strong. But the type of tenant you’re aiming for will shape everything – from how you present your property to how you manage it.
- Students: With Cardiff University, Cardiff Met, and the University of South Wales all drawing thousands of students every year, there’s always demand for student lets. Areas like Cathays, Roath, and Adamsdown are particularly popular for shared houses. These tenancies can be lucrative, but they often mean more wear and tear, and shorter tenancy cycles.
- Young professionals: Cardiff Bay, the city centre, and Pontcanna are magnets for professionals working in finance, government, or the growing creative and tech sectors. They’re often looking for modern flats or stylish terraces close to bars, restaurants, and transport links.
- Families: In suburbs like Llanishen, Cyncoed, and Whitchurch, family homes are in high demand. These tenants tend to stay longer and value things like school catchments, gardens, and quiet streets.
- Retirees and downsizers: Smaller bungalows or apartments in areas like Rhiwbina and Lisvane attract older renters who want low-maintenance living.
Take the time to consider: who do you want to let to, and what do they want from you? The answer will guide how you set up your property for the rental market.
2. How much rent should I charge?
Getting the rent right is one of the most important steps for any landlord. Charge too much, and your property could sit empty for weeks. Charge too little, and you miss out on income.
The Cardiff market has been buoyant in recent years, and while growth has slowed slightly, rents are still rising. According to Zoopla’s 2025 rental market update, rents in Wales are up 6% year-on-year, with Cardiff outperforming many other Welsh cities.
Here’s a rough guide to what properties are currently achieving in Cardiff:
- One-bed flats in the city centre or Cardiff Bay: £950–£1,050 PCM
- Two-bed terraces in Cathays, Roath, or Splott: £1,100–£1,200 PCM
- Three-bed semis in Llanishen, Heath, or Pontcanna: £1,500–£1,650 PCM
- Larger detached family homes in Cyncoed or Lisvane: £2,000+ PCM
Of course, these are averages. The rent your property can achieve depends on location, condition, energy efficiency, and presentation.
That’s why most successful landlords start with a professional valuation. It’s not just about a number – it’s about understanding where your property sits in the market, who will rent it, and how quickly it’s likely to let.
Book your free rental valuation with Belvoir Cardiff
3. Do I want to manage the property myself?
Many landlords start off thinking self-management will save money. After all, how hard can it be to collect rent and keep an eye on things?
In reality, managing a property is more complex than it looks. You’ll need to:
- Market the property and conduct viewings
- Reference tenants thoroughly
- Collect rent and protect deposits
- Keep up with legal obligations and safety checks
- Handle repairs and maintenance – often at inconvenient times
- Manage tenant queries and disputes fairly and legally
If you live nearby, know the law, and have time on your hands, self-management may be a good option. But for many landlords in Cardiff, the workload and risk outweigh the savings.
That’s where letting agents like Belvoir Cardiff come in. We offer both tenant-find services and full management, so you can choose the level of support you need. With full management, you don’t need to worry about 2am plumbing emergencies, missed compliance deadlines, or chasing late rent — we handle it all.
For busy professionals or landlords with multiple properties, this peace of mind is often worth every penny.
4. Am I compliant with landlord legislation?
The rules around renting have changed significantly in recent years, and it’s vital you’re up to date. In Wales, the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, fully implemented in December 2022, has simplified tenancy agreements into one standard contract – but it also increased landlord responsibilities.
In 2025, here’s what you need to have in place:
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Your property must have a minimum rating of E, but there’s growing pressure to improve to C. Many tenants also ask about energy efficiency due to rising bills.
- Electrical safety: An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is required every five years.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms: These must be installed and tested before each tenancy begins.
- Deposit protection: All deposits must be registered with a government-approved scheme.
- Right to Rent checks: You must verify that tenants have the legal right to live in the UK.
- Fit for Human Habitation standard: This requires homes to be free from hazards such as damp, mould, and faulty electrics.
Missing any of these steps could result in fines, legal disputes, or even being unable to regain possession of your property if things go wrong.
If this list feels overwhelming, don’t worry – it is a lot. That’s why so many landlords in Cardiff rely on professional support to keep everything compliant.
5. How can I make my property stand out?
The Cardiff rental market is competitive. While demand is high, tenants also have plenty of choice, especially in popular areas. To attract the right tenant quickly, presentation matters.
Here’s what’s currently helping landlords secure tenants faster:
- Energy efficiency: Tenants are increasingly asking about heating costs. Upgrading insulation, boilers, or windows can pay off in both rent and retention.
- Modern décor: Neutral walls, modern kitchens, and clean, well-kept bathrooms appeal to the widest audience.
- Flexible layouts: Spare bedrooms that can double as home offices are highly sought after.
- Outdoor space: Even a small garden, balcony, or courtyard adds value in areas like Roath and Canton.
- Parking: With Cardiff’s traffic and limited parking, off-road parking or permits are a huge plus.
It doesn’t always mean spending thousands. Sometimes, small touches – fresh paint, updated lighting, or a tidy garden – make a big difference.
Beyond the five questions: what makes Cardiff unique?
Letting in Cardiff isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about understanding the local character of the market. For example:
- Cathays and Roath are driven by student demand. Landlords here often focus on HMOs (houses in multiple occupations).
- Pontcanna attracts professionals looking for lifestyle and character, so presentation is key.
- Llanishen and Lisvane appeal to families who value schools and green space, meaning long-term, stable tenancies.
- Cardiff Bay draws young professionals with its modern flats and waterfront living.
Knowing which area matches your property – and your ideal tenants – is one of the keys to success.
Final thoughts
Becoming a landlord in Cardiff can be hugely rewarding, but it pays to ask the right questions before you start. Who’s your ideal tenant? How much rent should you charge? Do you want to self-manage? Are you legally compliant? And finally, how will you make your property stand out?
Answering these honestly will set you on the right path. And if you’d like expert help, Belvoir Cardiff is here. From free, accurate rental valuations to full property management, we’ll support you every step of the way.
Book your free valuation today
Because property is personal – and when it comes to letting in Cardiff, having the right support can make all the difference.
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