Tips for London's landlords as international students arrive

Every summer, thousands of international students descend on London, eager to find a home to rent before the new academic year.  

Now Christopher Saye, Savills' director of lettings, is offering tips and advice for student landlords - especially those who are considering entering the sector. 

One of the big attractions, he says, is that many international students will want to rent a quality home for three years. 

He also offers sound advice for international students wanting to find somewhere to live in London as a student – and the advice will work for student landlords around the UK. 

'Never lived away from home before' 

Mr Saye says: "Many have never lived away from home before and navigating the process of finding somewhere isn't always easy. 

"Meanwhile, landlords who've previously let to corporate or family tenants might see themselves letting their property to a student for the very first time. 

In doing so, he says, landlords will open their property to a much wider pool of tenants. 

Top tips for student landlords 

As the student search bonanza picks up, here are his top tips for landlords and tenants entering the student rental market: 

• Embrace longer stays: Student tenancies can last for the entire three-year degree, offering stability for landlords. Consider new-builds with security features, as some parents prioritise these  

• Offer cleaning services: Many students lack experience with independent living. Including a cleaning service can ease the transition 

• Furnish the property: International students tend to seek furnished accommodation. Invest in high-quality furniture for a more appealing flat.   

Students will want a three-year tenancy  

Mr Saye said that some students will want a three-year tenancy to secure somewhere they can call home for the duration of their degree. 

He adds: "Landlords of new builds will find that they are especially popular, both from a maintenance and security perspective." 

Mr Saye says the addition of a cleaner makes sense and points out: "Over the years, we have seen a number of landlords opt to include a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning service within the rent which can often be a great help.” 

Top tips for international students heading to the UK 

• Register early and stay connected: Register with a letting agent early to stay ahead of fierce competition. Maintain regular contact to receive updates on new listings 

• Find a local representative: Virtual viewings are helpful, but an in-person viewing conducted by a trusted representative is crucial 

• Accept the property 'As Is': Unlike some cities, London landlords typically don't refurbish properties between tenancies 

• Think long term: Consider a two-bedroom flat if you anticipate future visits from siblings or relatives 

• Explore beyond your doorstep: Utilise your agent's knowledge to explore alternative areas with good transport links. You may find a great flat slightly further from campus. 

Staying in contact with a lettings agent 

Mr Saye says: "Given the volume of students coming to study here, registering and staying in contact with a lettings agent is essential in order to stay ahead of the competition. 

"That way you'll receive updates on new instructions as they hit the market, and by popping in or speaking with your agent regularly, they will know you are still keen to secure a property.  

"Many students will begin their search from as early as June onwards – even if they aren't planning to move to London until the autumn – as they'll want to get used to their new surroundings before returning for the start of term." 

He adds: "The introduction of virtual viewings during Covid continues to act as an essential house-hunting tool but we do require someone to conduct an in-person viewing on a tenant's behalf before a landlord is presented with an offer.” 

Mr Saye also highlights that international students tend to look for somewhere close to their place of study.  

He says: "We often have students looking to live four or five streets away from their university which significantly reduces the number of properties that might be available to them. 

"I'd always advise a tenant to ask their agent about travel times, routes and alternative areas with a lifestyle they might like; London's transport system and walkability means that sometimes a property slightly further away can work extremely well." 

'Opportunity for landlords to find reliable tenants' 

Simon Thompson, the managing director of Accommodation for Students, said: "With thousands of international students arriving every summer, there's a great opportunity for landlords to find reliable tenants.  

"By offering a few student-friendly features and being flexible on things like cleaning or viewings, a student landlord can make a property more attractive and find the right fit for both them and the overseas student." 

He added: "Also, by understanding their needs and making the transition to London life a smooth one, it's likely that the landlord will enjoy a lucrative three-year tenancy."