How to Minimise Void Periods and Maximise Rental Income
For landlords, a great property is only half the equation. The real challenge? Keeping it occupied and profitable. Voids, those dreaded gaps between tenancies don’t just eat into your income, they throw off your whole strategy.
At Let Me Manchester, we’ve seen it all. Here’s how to stay one step ahead and keep your rental income flowing.
📅 1. Start Marketing Before the Tenant Moves Out
The golden rule: don’t wait until it’s empty. Start advertising 2–4 weeks before the end of the tenancy.
- Book viewings while the current tenant is still in place (with notice)
- Use quality photos and compelling descriptions
- Get your next tenant lined up before the keys are handed back
Every day your property sits empty is money lost. Forward planning = consistent income.
🔍 2. Know Your Target Tenant
Different tenants want different things. Professionals want convenience and speed. Families want space and schools. Students want location and Wi-Fi.
Tailor your listing to:
- Speak to your ideal renter’s needs
- Highlight features that matter to them, not just what you like
A focused listing attracts faster, more relevant enquiries and reduces time-wasters.
🛠️ 3. Keep the Property in Top Condition
Clean, well-maintained homes rent faster full stop. Tired carpets, leaky taps, and broken blinds send the wrong message.
- Stay on top of maintenance (especially between tenancies)
- Refresh paint and décor every couple of years
- Fix wear and tear before it becomes a problem
Small upgrades can lead to big returns and faster lets.
💷 4. Set the Right Rent (Not Just the Highest One)
Overpricing = longer voids. Underpricing = lost income.
Use local data (or talk to us!) to:
- Set a competitive market rate
- Offer inclusive bills in HMOs for simplicity
- Consider incentives like “first week rent-free” to attract tenants quickly
A slightly lower rent with no voids often earns more than chasing the top of the market.
📲 5. Use a Responsive Agent (or Be One Yourself)
If enquiries sit unanswered for days, you’re losing potential tenants.
Make sure your agent:
- Responds quickly to enquiries
- Is available for flexible viewing times
- Moves fast with referencing and contracts
Speed matters in a busy market, the first to act usually wins the tenant.
✅ Final Thoughts: Prevention Beats Panic
Voids are inevitable sometimes but they should be the exception, not the norm.
With the right systems, presentation, and communication, you can keep your property full and your income flowing.
Need help keeping your properties let and your income steady? Let Me Manchester is here to make it simple.