LANDLORD TIMES
September 2026 Edition
Monthly news for landlords brought to you by:
LANDLORD RENT ARREARS REACH HISTORIC LOW AS PROFITABILITY REMAINS STRONG
The proportion of landlords affected by tenant rent arrears has dropped to its lowest level on record, while the vast majority continue to run profitable rental portfolios. During the second quarter of the year, just 26% of landlords said
they had experienced rent arrears within the previous 12 months. This represents a four percentage point decrease compared with the first quarter and is the lowest figure ever recorded by the longrunning Landlord Trends survey. Paragon Bank reports that
alongside this record-low arrears rate, 86% of landlords stated that their rental businesses were profitable. This marks a two percentage point improvement from the previous quarter. The bank also found that average gross rental yields rose to 7%
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during the second quarter. At the same time, data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that average monthly private rents across the UK increased by 3.7% over the year to July, reaching £1,393. This compares with annual growth of 3.3% recorded in the year to June. Across the nations of the UK, average private rents climbed to £1,451 in England, reflecting annual growth of 3.8%. In Wales, rents rose by 4.5% to £843, while Scotland recorded a 1.7% increase, taking average rents to £1,016. In Northern Ireland, where figures are reported to May, average rents reached £875, up 2.3% compared with the previous year. Within England, rental inflation varied by region, with the North East experiencing the strongest annual growth at 6.3%, while the South East recorded the slowest increase at 2.9%.
Lisa Steele, mortgage lending director at Paragon Bank, says its findings indicate a sector that continues to demonstrate resilience despite a challenging backdrop. “It’s understandable that landlords remain cautious about factors such as the wider economy and future market conditions,” she adds. “However, when they look at the performance of their own portfolios, the picture is generally much more positive. Most tenants continue to meet their rental commitments, most landlords report operating profitable businesses and those are the factors that have the greatest influence on day-to-day confidence.”
“This is positive news for landlords and shows that the Renters’ Rights Act has led to landlords being more diligent about finding the right calibre of tenant. For those who have weathered the storm and are taking the right approach to securing reliable tenants and charging market rates, they are now reaping the benefits. We see this amongst the landlords we support – those who take up our tenant check and rent guarantee services are enjoying peace of mind and security of income, which is in turn, propelling growth.”
Rebecca Dean, SBK Lettings Regional Director says:
INVESTING IN A BUY-TO-LET PROPERTY? At SBK Lettings, we pride ourselves in delivering an exceptional, professional and personal service to both our landlords and their tenants. Our fully trained property managers have a wealth of experience with property maintenance and will aim to care for our clients’ properties at the highest level whilst endeavouring to achieve the best possible return from their investment. For more information please call us and one of our team will be more than happy to help.
Rebecca Dean MARLA Regional Director - SBK Lettings
01789 867110 Rebecca.dean@sbklettings.co.uk
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Cash-Rich Landlords Drive Tougher Property Bargains as Market Slows Buy-to-let landlords are increasingly leveraging their cash resources and chain-free status to negotiate substantial discounts when purchasing property, according to new research from Hamptons.
negotiations. Nearly two-thirds
Regionally, the South East
(63%) of offers from landlords
recorded the highest proportion
purchasing with cash in England
of discounted deals, with offers
and Wales were submitted at 10%
10% or more below asking price
or more below the seller's original
accounting for 54% of agreed sales.
asking price.
The South West followed at 44%. In
Higher Acceptance Rates for
comparison, the equivalent figures
Investors represented 14.1% of all residential property purchases across Great Britain in July, exceeding the year-to-date average of 12.4%. On average, landlords secured properties for 88.7% of the original asking price. More than half (56%) of investor offers were at least 10% below the initial listed price, marking the highest level since the first Covid-19 lockdown in April 2020 and rising from 48% in June.
Discounted Offers
were 32% in the North East and
Using data from Connells Group, Hamptons found that cash buyers were particularly aggressive in their
Landlords are also seeing improved success with lower bids. In July, 27% of investor offers made at least 10% below the asking price
only 16% in London, where sellers remained the least willing to accept significant reductions despite challenging market conditions.
were accepted, compared with 18%
At the same time, the rental
during the same month in 2025.
market continues to strengthen.
Owners of flats were particularly
The average rent for newly let
likely to accept discounted offers.
properties in Great Britain rose
Among leasehold property sellers,
by 1.9% year-on-year in July,
41% agreed to offers that were at
pushing average monthly rents
least 10% below their initial asking
above £1,401. This represents the
price, reflecting softer pricing
strongest annual rate of rental
and weaker buyer demand in this
growth for new tenancies in the
segment of the market.
past 19 months.
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Top Tips for Keeping on top of Safety and Compliance
As a landlord, keeping on
installation within your property,
top of safety and compliance
including wiring, sockets and other
Gas Safety Certificate
requirements can be complex and
fixed electrical installations.
If your property has gas appliances,
can help take away this hassle and
For properties in the private rented
pipework or flues, a Gas Safety
support you in keeping on top of
sector in England, the electrical
these important obligations.
installation must generally be
A gas safety check must generally
Here is a quick guide to some
inspected and tested at least every
be carried out every 12 months
of the key safety requirements
five years, or sooner if the previous
by a suitably qualified Gas Safe
landlords should be aware of.
report specifies a shorter period.
time-consuming. A good agent
Certificate is required.
registered engineer. Why is it important?
EICR – Electrical Gas safety is one of the most Electrical faults can create a important areas of property Installation Condition serious risk of electric shock or compliance. Faulty gas appliances fire. Regular inspections help or flues can create serious risks, Report identify potential issues before they including gas leaks and carbon Why is it important?
An EICR checks the electrical
become more serious.
monoxide poisoning.
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EPC – Energy Performance Certificate An EPC provides an energyefficiency rating for your property, from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). An EPC is generally valid for 10 years, unless a newer EPC is produced.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas, which means it cannot be detected without an alarm. Landlords are required to have a carbon monoxide alarm in any room used as living accommodation where a fixed combustion appliance is installed,
For most privately rented properties, the current minimum energy efficiency standard is E, unless a valid exemption applies.
such as a gas boiler or other relevant fixed combustion appliance.
Why is it important?
Carbon monoxide alarms have a limited lifespan. Even if an alarm appears to be working, it may need replacing once it reaches the end of its recommended service life.
Energy efficiency is increasingly important to tenants as it can save them a considerable amount on bills. A good EPC rating can make a property more attractive in the rental market.
Did you know?
Blind Cords
Smoke Alarms
A Small Detail That Can Make a Big Difference
Smoke alarms are an essential safety feature in every rental property.
Blind cords and chains can present a serious safety risk to young children.
Landlords must ensure that at least one smoke alarm is installed on each storey of the property used as living accommodation.
Landlords should ensure that window blinds and their cords or chains are safe and comply with the relevant safety requirements.
The alarms must be in proper working order at the start of each new tenancy.
Something as simple as securing a blind cord correctly can make an important difference to the safety of a home and is something that tenants with children should be looking out for.
Keeping alarms working correctly can provide an early warning in the event of a fire and potentially save lives.
What you should expect from your agent? If you employ an agent who offers a property management service, they can help you keep track of different certificates, inspection dates and safety requirements. At SBK Lettings, our fully managed service means we take responsibility for monitoring and arranging key safety certificates on your behalf, keep track of expiry dates and arrange inspections with appropriate qualified contractors, helping to reduce the risk of important checks being overlooked. With this support our landlords can rest assured that compliance is taken care of and their investment and tenants are well looked after. If you have any queries about your safety and compliance responsibilities, or require additional support, please speak to your local branch.
Chloe Warner Area Director
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Click on the properties to view further details brought to you by
I N PA RT N E R S H I P W I T H
Discover
Wigston Meadows
Find your dream home this summer and take advantage of generous incentives. Call our dedicated new homes team today to discover how you can take advantage of schemes that will help get you moving hassle free.
New Homes Team 01789 333 466
To follow Sheldon Bosley Knight on socials click here
Greenhill Street, Stratford-upon-Avon • First floor studio apartment • Modern shower room
• The property previously generated £7,800 per annum
• No on-ward chain
• EPC - C
• Town centre location
Gross yield of 12%
£65,000
For auction properties click logo
London Road, Coventry • A company sale offering excellent returns on investment • 15 double and one single self-contained high quality studios within walking distance of Coventry city centre • Modern self-contained living spaces
• Fully occupied with existing
Price on Application
tenancies in place at good market rents • EPC - C
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
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Toler Road Nuneaton • Ideal refurbishment opportunity for investors, landlords and developers • Mid-Terraced property • Two-bedrooms
• Approx rent value of £950 pcm
Gross yield of 10.4%
once refurbished • EPC - D
£110,000
For auction properties click logo
Westhaven Court, Station Road, Market Bosworth, Nuneaton • Requires a programme of refurbishment
• Garage in a separate block.
• Two-bedroom end-terraced property
• EPC - C
• Ideal for developers, investors and owner-occupiers • Convenient location close to Market Bosworth
For auction properties click logo
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
£135,000
£249,950 STARTING PRICE
OVER 90 YEARS OF AWARD-WINNING HOMEBUILDING EXPERIENCE
With various house styles available across the Midlands, now is the perfect time to secure your next investment. William Davis Homes create homes and communities across the Midlands with attention to detail and care, ensuring each property is designed for modern family living.
Bulk deals available* – call today to discuss. New Homes Team 01789 333 466 Please note: Locations may vary; pricing and specifications are subject to change. Contact our New Homes team for detailed information. Estate fees are payable and will be confirmed by the developer and your solicitors. Subject to terms and conditions*
To follow Sheldon Bosley Knight on socials click here
Apartment 7, The Old Post Office, Moreton in Marsh • Open-plan kitchen and living room
• Current rent value of £1,025 pcm
• Two double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes
• Second floor apartment which
• Walking distance to mainline train station to London
Gross yield of 5.4%
£225,000
can be access via lift or stairs
Apartment 3, The Old Post Office, Moreton in Marsh • Open-plan kitchen and living room
• Current rent value of £975 pcm
• Two double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes
• EPC - D
• Covered parking • Walking distance to mainline train station to London
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
Gross yield of 5.0%
£230,000
Sheldon Bosley Knight is delighted to offer an off-market, exclusive opportunity of either individual plots or multiple unit discounted packages from developer David Wilson Homes. With various property styles there is plenty to suit your investment needs. > Luxury three- and four-bedroom homes at Heritage Grange located just a short drive from Leamington Spa and Warwick. > Built within 14.3 acres of green space, enjoy scenic walks and a family-friendly play area. > Energy efficient homes with solar panels and EV car charging points. > 20-minute drive to Leamington Spa and Warwick town centres with a regular bus service available. > Close to the M40 motorway with easy links to Birmingham and Oxford. > Discover countryside living with city convenience. *Discounts and exclusive multiple unit packages are only available via Sheldon Bosley Knight and not direct with David Wilson Homes.
For more information please contact Jack Richardson and the
New Homes Team on 01789 333 466
The land is located on the edge of the village of Stretton on Fosse, approximately 2.5 miles southwest of Shipston on Stour, and 3.5 miles north of Moreton in Marsh. Access The land is accessed directly from Tankards Hill, Stretton on Fosse. Buildings The buildings comprise an openfronted brick equestrian shelter with an attached stable used for feed and hay storage, all enclosed within ring fencing and accessed via a metal gate. In addition, there is a separately fenced hard-standing area at the entrance to the land, providing secure parking and gated access through to the main field.
Location
Services A water connection is present to a trough on the land. The Agent has not tested the services and Buyers must rely on their own due diligence.
A public footpath runs north-south across the centre of the land, and an overhead cable is present. Designations The land is located in a Nitrate To Zone follow Bosley Knight on socials click here Vulnerable forSheldon surface water. Soil Type The land is classified as Grade 3 agricultural land, and the soils are slowly permeable, seasonally wet, slightly acid but base-rich loamy and clayey soils (Soilscape 18). Sporting, Timber, and Mineral Rights The sporting, timber, and mineral rights insofar as they exist are included in the Freehold sale.
Plan
Tenure and Possession The land is sold Freehold with Vacant Possession available upon completion. Title Number WK384567. Rural Payments Agency No entitlements are included in the sale. Buyer's must rely on their own due diligence.
Land Hill, off Stretton Tankards Hill, Stretton on GL56 Fosse f Tankards on Fosse, Warwickshire, • 5.23 acres of Grade 3 pastureland • Open-fronted brick shelter with separate brick stable
• A water connection is present via a trough
• Self-enclosed hard standing area for parking and Shipston-on-Stour
• Perfect as a pony paddock or alternative uses (STPP)
£120,000
For further information please call 01608 661666 (option 3) or email rural@sheldonbosleyknight.co.uk
Location
Plan
Far Field, Fosse Way, Shipston-on-Stour • Redundant agricultural buildings extending to approximately 1,800 square feet • 8.26 acres of Grade 3 pastureland with excellent road frontage
• Excellent connections to surrounding towns such as Moreton-in-Marsh and Shipston-on-Stour • Suitable for amenity or other alternative uses STPP
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
For further information please email rural@sheldonbosleyknight.co.uk
£200,000
agricultural or non-equestrian use. The overage agreement is dated purchase this property you will be required to produce photographic identification and a utility bill for your current address 15th December 2020.
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Plan
Plan is for indicative purposes.
Plan is for indicative purposes.
Land at Cleeve Prior, Evesham
Cleeve Prior, Evesham Road, Evesham,WR11 8JZ • 21.82 acres (8.83 ha) of Grade 3 pastureland For further information please email rural@sheldonbosleyknight.co.uk
£450,000
• Located within the village of Cleeve Prior • Direct road access form Evesham Road • Potential for development; subject to planning
Forest Road, Loughborough • Development potential STPP
• Current rent £20,000 per annum
• Investment opportunity
• 255m2 (2,739.81 Sq Ft)
• Centrally located close to the town centre
• EPC - D
• Large car park
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
Gross yield of 2.9%
£600,000
FORMER GARDEN NURSERY SALE To follow Sheldon Bosley Knight on socials click here
MER GARDEN NURSERY SALE
INSTER NURSERIES, STATION ROAD, BLACKMINSTER, EVESHAM WR11 7TF Plan is for indicative purposes
NURSERIES, STATION ROAD, BLACKMINSTER, GUIDE PRICE BLACKMINSTER EVESHAM, WR11 7TF £650,000 FORMER GARDEN NURSERY SALE Plan is for indicative purposes
Plan is for indicative purposes
Plan is for indicative purposes
Blackminster Nurseries, Evesham • Former Garden Nurseries with potential for redevelopment; subject to planning
£650,000
• Extending to approximately 8.7 acres (3.52 ha) • Accessed off of Station Road via a track
DISCLAIMER These particulars do not form part of any offer or contract and must not be relied upon. The Purchaser shall be deemed to have satisfied themselves as to the description and boundaries of the property. Any error or mis-statement shall not annul the sale. The plans, measurements, text and photographs are for identification purposes only.
Development land south of Banbury Road, Ettington • Residential development opportunity • Outline planning permission for up to 21 dwellings • Eight open market dwellings and 13 self-build and custom-build
• For sale by Private Treaty offers to be submitted to Charles Davis 07915 397008 or Daniel Jackson 07809 563691
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
£2,500,000
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Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon
reet,• Prominent Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 6JF high street location • Investment opportunity • Gross internal area: 434m (46,802 sq ft) • Passing rental value: £47,000 per annum • Leased to a national covenant
• Development potential (STP) • Stratford town centre • Freehold • EPC - D
Gross yield of 6.1%
£770,000
Main Street, Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon • Planning permission granted to split flat into two, one-bedroom flats
• Current rental £20,000 per annum • Part exchange considered
• Highly desirable location • Residential accommodation to be vacant upon sale
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
Gross yield of 2.4%
£825,000
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