Letting out a property in Pontefract can be a smart investment – but how do you make sure it delivers the best possible return? Whether you’re a new landlord or have a growing portfolio, a few focused improvements can significantly increase your rental income.
At Whitegates Pontefract, we work with local landlords every day to help them boost performance, reduce voids, and attract long-term tenants. Here are 10 tried-and-tested ways to maximise the income from your rental property.
1. Review your rent regularly
Rental values across Pontefract have changed over the past year, especially in areas close to schools, transport links and new developments. If you haven’t updated your rent recently, it’s worth checking what similar properties are achieving. We offer free, no-obligation rental appraisals based on real market data.
2. Present your property at its best
First impressions matter. A freshly painted wall, clean carpets, and working light bulbs go a long way. Tidy outdoor areas and neutral interiors help your property appeal to the widest audience – and could lead to faster lets and better offers.
3. Upgrade where it counts
You don’t need to spend a fortune. Small improvements like replacing dated kitchen cupboard doors, installing modern lighting or upgrading taps can instantly modernise a space. If you’re renting to families or professionals, a little polish can command a higher monthly rent.
4. Offer broadband-ready living
More tenants are working from home and value fast, reliable internet. If your property has a good connection or you can offer fibre broadband as part of the rent, you’ll appeal to this growing group – and may be able to charge more.
5. Go pet-friendly (sensibly)
Many renters are pet owners, and demand for pet-friendly homes is rising. You could widen your tenant pool by allowing pets with the right checks and agreements in place. In some cases, landlords can agree to slightly higher rents to reflect the added flexibility.
6. Reduce void periods
Empty weeks are the biggest income drain. To avoid this, start marketing early, set competitive rents, and ensure your property is ready for viewings as soon as the previous tenancy ends. We help landlords plan ahead to keep their income flowing.
7. Consider letting furnished
In Pontefract’s flat and apartment market, furnished properties can let faster – especially for young professionals and relocation tenants. If furnishing isn’t something you’ve tried before, we can advise on what’s worth including.
8. Stay legally compliant
From EPC ratings to electrical safety checks, keeping your property compliant helps avoid costly penalties – and appeals to responsible tenants. Our managed landlords don’t need to worry about keeping up with legislation. We take care of it all.
9. Communicate well with tenants
A good relationship with your tenants encourages longer stays and better care of your property. Responding to issues promptly and being fair with renewals helps you build trust – which ultimately protects your income.
10. Work with a local expert
No one knows Pontefract like we do. At Whitegates Pontefract, we help landlords get the best out of their property – whether it’s a terrace in town or a family home on a new estate.
We offer rental reviews, full property management, tenant-find services and ongoing advice tailored to the local market.
Final thoughts
Maximising your rental income doesn’t have to mean increasing rent alone. By improving presentation, reducing gaps between tenants and offering what modern renters want, you can increase returns and future-proof your investment.
Ready to take the next step? Book a free rental valuation with Whitegates Pontefract and find out how your property could be working harder for you.
Looking to sell? Book a free valuation with our local team
Ready to buy? Start your journey by browsing the latest homes for sale in Pontefract and see how far your budget can go. Reach out to us.
