By Robert Forsyth, Director, Belvoir Tilehurst
As the evenings draw in and the temperature drops, both tenants and landlords begin to shift focus. For tenants, it’s about finding a warm, reliable, and energy-efficient place to call home for the colder months. For landlords, it’s about preparing their properties to meet those expectations, reduce maintenance issues, and attract the right kind of tenant before winter sets in.
Autumn lettings are a growing trend, especially in areas like Tilehurst where demand from professionals, families and commuters remains high. In fact, Zoopla’s latest Rental Market Report shows that UK rental demand remains 51% above the five-year average, with tenant priorities shifting towards comfort and cost-efficiency.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through practical ways to get your Tilehurst rental property autumn-ready — from essential maintenance to energy upgrades and smart marketing strategies. It’s all about reducing void periods, improving tenant satisfaction, and ultimately protecting your investment.
Handle essential maintenance before the weather turns
Autumn may bring crisp mornings and golden leaves, but it also brings damp, wind, and colder nights. As a landlord, the first step is ensuring your property can handle the change in season.
Start with the basics:
- Clear gutters and drains: Leaves, moss, and debris build up quickly and can cause water damage if not cleared out.
- Check the roof and external brickwork for any signs of wear or damage that could lead to leaks.
- Service the boiler now, not when tenants report it failing. Autumn is the perfect time to book a Gas Safe engineer to carry out a full service.
- Bleed radiators and check thermostats and timers. Make sure the heating system is fully functional and responsive.
Proactive maintenance is not only good practice — it’s a key factor in tenant satisfaction. Tenants are far more likely to stay long-term in homes where they feel their comfort and wellbeing are prioritised.
Boost energy efficiency to attract and retain tenants
With energy costs still a concern, renters are more focused than ever on affordability. As a landlord, this is your opportunity to improve your rental’s appeal by investing in energy efficiency.
Here’s what to look at:
- EPC rating: From 2025, all newly let properties may need an EPC rating of C or above under proposed MEES changes. If yours is currently a D or below, it’s worth planning upgrades now.
- Insulation: Adding or topping up loft insulation is one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make.
- Windows and doors: Check seals, install draught excluders, and replace broken panes.
- LED lighting: Replace old bulbs with energy-efficient alternatives throughout the property.
- Thick curtains or blinds: These help tenants retain warmth, particularly in bedrooms and living rooms.
Tenants in Tilehurst are becoming savvier about running costs. Properties that are warm, well-insulated and affordable to heat are snapped up quickly — and are more likely to encourage long-term tenancies.
Create a warm welcome for autumn tenants
When the seasons shift, so do people’s emotional needs from their living space. Autumn is about cosiness, warmth, and creating a secure base for the months ahead. That applies to rentals too.
If your property is part-furnished or due for a refresh, consider some of these cost-effective touches:
- Warm lighting: Replace harsh white bulbs with soft, warm tones. Use lamps to brighten darker corners.
- Neutral colour palettes: A fresh coat of paint in off-white, light taupe or soft grey can transform a tired room.
- Simple soft furnishings: If included in the let, add a few scatter cushions or a neutral-coloured rug to enhance comfort.
- Exterior lighting: Ensure the front entrance is well-lit and welcoming, especially for evening viewings.
Autumn tenants often include professionals relocating for work, families wanting to settle before school terms begin, or couples moving out of shared accommodation. For these tenants, presentation and atmosphere matter more than you might think.
Refresh your marketing to match seasonal demand
If your property is being listed this autumn, make sure the marketing reflects the season and the needs of your target audience.
Imagery matters:
- Update property photos to reflect the time of year. Wet leaves or dark, blurry photos can put tenants off.
- Use interior shots with lights on and curtains open to show the space at its brightest.
- Tidy gardens and clean pathways to keep the outside looking neat and low-maintenance.
Listing descriptions:
- Use phrases like “well-insulated”, “warm and inviting”, or “ready for autumn and winter”
- Highlight recent improvements such as a new boiler, insulation upgrades or double glazing
- If close to schools, transport, or shops, mention them. These are major decision drivers for renters in Tilehurst.
Rightmove’s Rental Price Tracker shows that demand in the South East remains high, but tenants are increasingly selective. Properties with strong seasonal marketing and clear lifestyle benefits are winning the race.
Stay proactive to avoid costly void periods
The lettings market moves quickly in autumn. Tenants want to get settled before the clocks go back, and letting agents often receive a surge in enquiries between September and November.
To make the most of this window:
- Be flexible with viewings: Evening slots may be necessary for working tenants
- Respond promptly to applications and requests for more information
- Have documentation ready: EPC, gas safety certificate, How to Rent guide, tenancy agreement, and deposit scheme info
- Use a trusted letting agent: At Belvoir Tilehurst, we vet tenants, manage viewings, and handle legal compliance so you can stay hands-off while knowing your property is protected.
Void periods cost landlords an average of £900 per month in lost rent. Staying organised and responsive can make the difference between a smooth handover and an empty house through winter.
Need help getting your property autumn-ready?
Preparing your rental for autumn isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about creating a home that tenants want to stay in, care for, and recommend.
At Belvoir Tilehurst, we work with landlords across Reading and West Berkshire to:
- Maximise rental value through targeted seasonal improvements
- Reduce tenant turnover by enhancing property comfort and energy efficiency
- Stay ahead of legislation to avoid compliance headaches
Whether you’re letting your first property or growing a portfolio, autumn is an ideal time to act. The demand is there — and we’re here to help you meet it.
Book a free rental valuation or speak to our lettings team about preparing your property for autumn and beyond.
Let’s make sure your next tenants love where they live — and stay longer because of it.
