With mortgage costs rising and landlord regulations shifting, there’s never been more pressure to make every pound of rental income count. But here’s the good news: Tunbridge Wells continues to see strong tenant demand, thanks to its excellent commuter links, grammar schools, and charming period homes. If you’re a landlord looking to boost your returns without taking unnecessary risks, there are simple, effective strategies that can help you make the most of your property investment.
I’m Natalie Boardman, Director of Belvoir Tunbridge Wells, and I’ve worked with hundreds of local landlords across Kent. In this guide, I’ll walk you through 10 proven ways to increase your rental income — sustainably, sensibly and with long-term value in mind.
Review your rent annually
Start with the basics: is your current rent in line with the market? Many landlords are unknowingly undercharging, especially if they’ve kept long-term tenants without annual reviews.
Rightmove’s latest Rental Trends Tracker shows that average asking rents in the South East have risen by over 6.2% year-on-year. In Tunbridge Wells, demand still outstrips supply, particularly for two- and three-bedroom family homes and properties within walking distance of the station.
If you’re not sure where your property sits, we offer a free local market appraisal to give you clarity: Book a free local market appraisal
Improve energy efficiency
Tenants are increasingly eco-conscious — and cost-aware. Properties with better EPC ratings are more attractive, let faster, and command higher rents. From 2030, new rules may make it mandatory for all new tenancies to meet EPC grade C or above.
In Tunbridge Wells, many properties are Victorian or Edwardian builds, which often means single glazing and poor insulation. You can make a big difference with:
- Loft or cavity wall insulation
- Upgraded double glazing
- A modern, energy-efficient boiler
You might be eligible for grants like the ECO4 scheme or support through local authority retrofit programmes. And remember, an energy-efficient property isn’t just greener — it’s more profitable.
Add a second bathroom or en-suite
This one might sound ambitious, but it can significantly lift your rental value, particularly in shared houses or family homes. Even a modest en-suite can boost weekly rent by £20-£50, depending on the layout and location.
You don’t always need to build an extension — clever use of space (like converting part of a large bedroom or under-stairs cupboard) can do the trick. An experienced lettings agent can help you weigh up the cost versus return.
Allow pets (with conditions)
More tenants than ever are looking for pet-friendly homes — and landlords who adapt now (with well-thought-out safeguards) stand to gain by:
- Attracting longer-term tenants
- Reducing void periods
- Letting properties more quickly
Recent drafts and commentary make clear the Renters’ Rights Bill will introduce legal rights for tenants to request to keep a pet in privately rented homes, and require landlords to consider those requests fairly. Landlords will no longer be able to issue blanket bans on pets.
What landlords should do now
We recommend updating tenancy agreements and your internal policies in anticipation of the new law. Possible clauses to consider now (so you’re ahead of the curve) include:
- Having a clear procedure for pet requests (written request, details required)
- Setting criteria for valid refusals (size/species of pet, suitability of property, lease restrictions etc.)
- Specifying expectations around property care, cleaning, damage reporting
- Reviewing whether to include pet references
- Considering higher deposits only where permitted and when proportionate
Redecorate in neutral colours
First impressions count, and fresh, clean interiors can go a long way. If it’s been a few years since you last redecorated, a simple refresh can significantly increase your property’s appeal and rental value.
Stick to light, neutral tones that suit professional photos and wide tenant appeal. Greys, creams and soft whites work well and make rooms feel bigger and brighter. Avoid strong colours or overly personal touches.
We work with trusted local decorators who can refresh a property quickly, cost-effectively and with minimal disruption.
Invest in kitchen and bathroom upgrades
Kitchens and bathrooms are deal-makers (or breakers). Even small updates — like modern taps, new cabinet doors or improved lighting — can elevate your property and increase its marketability.
Where budgets allow, consider replacing outdated fittings with sleek, low-maintenance alternatives. Integrated appliances, clean lines, and modern tiling go a long way.
A smart kitchen or modernised bathroom could boost your monthly rent by £50-£100, depending on the property type.
Reduce void periods
Void periods are the silent profit killer. One month with no tenant can erase the gain from a rent increase. That’s why minimising empty time between tenancies is key to maximising income.
Ways to reduce voids include:
- Marketing your property early (ideally 6 weeks before the tenancy ends)
- Using high quality photos and floorplans
- Listing across major portals like Rightmove
- Conducting accompanied viewings quickly
At Belvoir Tunbridge Wells, we have an active list of pre-qualified tenants and a fast, responsive lettings process to keep your property earning.
Work with a lettings expert who knows the area
DIY landlords often end up losing money in the long run — not through carelessness, but because they miss opportunities or fall foul of changing regulations.
A local, experienced agent understands:
- What tenants are really looking for
- How to price competitively
- What upgrades offer the best ROI
- How to stay compliant with ever-evolving laws
I’ve personally supported hundreds of landlords in Tunbridge Wells, and my team is always on hand to help you maximise your rental income while protecting your investment.
Whether you’re managing one flat or a portfolio of family homes, tailored advice makes a huge difference.
Ready to increase your rental returns?
If you’re wondering what your property could be worth in today’s market, let us help. Book a free, no-obligation valuation with our expert team:
Or, if you’re thinking of growing your portfolio, we’d be happy to share available properties with strong rental yields in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas.
Because property is personal with Belvoir — and so is your success as a landlord.
