The Summer Advantage: Why 2025 Is Different
Summer has always been prime time for the rental market, but 2025 brings unique challenges and opportunities for Devon landlords. With rising property prices and new tenant expectations, the game has changed significantly since last year.
“The rental landscape in Devon has evolved dramatically,” explains Veronica Beaver, Director of Your Home Let Devon. “Today’s tenants are more discerning than ever, especially during the competitive summer months. They’re not just looking for a place to live—they’re seeking a lifestyle that reflects their values and aspirations.”
As a family-run business, Veronica and her daughter Rebecca Beaver have witnessed these market shifts firsthand. Their combined expertise has helped countless landlords throughout Ivybridge, Plymouth, and surrounding areas maximize their rental potential while building lasting tenant relationships.
Let’s dive into the strategies that will set successful landlords apart this summer.
First Impressions: Presentation Is Everything
The journey to securing top-tier tenants begins long before they step through your door. In the digital age, their first impression comes from your online listing—and in summer 2025, subpar presentation simply won’t cut it.
Professional Photography: No Longer Optional
Properties with professional photography receive nearly 70% more inquiries than those with amateur snapshots. Summer offers the perfect opportunity to showcase your property in its best light:
- Schedule photography during “golden hour” (early morning or late afternoon) for warm, inviting lighting
- Ensure gardens and outdoor spaces are in full bloom
- Open windows and doors to create a sense of airiness and space
- Stage outdoor furniture to highlight alfresco living potential
“The difference between amateur and professional photography isn’t just aesthetic—it directly impacts your bottom line,” notes Rebecca Beaver. “Properties with professional images typically rent 2-3 weeks faster and often command higher rents.”
Summer-Ready Curb Appeal
First physical impressions matter tremendously. Before summer viewings:
- Refresh exterior paintwork where needed
- Ensure gardens are immaculately maintained
- Add colorful planters or window boxes
- Power wash driveways and pathways
- Consider a professional deep clean
Remember, potential tenants are visualizing summer BBQs, garden gatherings, and peaceful evenings in your outdoor spaces. Help them see the lifestyle potential by presenting these areas at their absolute best.
The 2025 Must-Have Amenities
Today’s renters have different priorities than those of even a few years ago. Post-pandemic shifts in work patterns and lifestyle expectations have created new “non-negotiables” for quality tenants.
Remote Work Readiness
With hybrid and remote work now firmly established, properties that cater to home-based professionals have a significant advantage:
- High-speed broadband (minimum 100Mbps, ideally 200+)
- Dedicated office space or quiet work area
- Plentiful power outlets and USB charging points
- Smart home technology for video conferencing and productivity
“Many of our most successful landlords have invested in creating specific work zones within their properties,” says Veronica. “Even converting a small box room into a dedicated office space can increase rental value by 5-10%.”
Energy Efficiency & Cooling
Summer 2025 is predicted to be another scorcher, and energy costs remain a major concern for tenants:
- Effective cooling solutions (air conditioning or high-quality fans)
- Quality insulation to maintain comfortable temperatures
- Smart thermostats for efficient climate control
- Solar panels or other renewable energy options
- Energy-efficient appliances
Properties with excellent EPC ratings not only attract more environmentally conscious tenants but also command premium rents as utility costs continue to rise.
Outdoor Living Enhancement
The pandemic permanently elevated the importance of outdoor space. Successful summer rentals will offer:
- Well-maintained garden or balcony areas
- Quality outdoor furniture
- BBQ facilities (where appropriate)
- Shaded areas for hot days
- Secure bicycle storage
“In Plymouth and coastal areas especially, outdoor living space has become as important as indoor square footage,” Rebecca explains. “Tenants are willing to compromise on interior space if the outdoor offering is exceptional.”
Effective Marketing Strategies for Summer 2025
Once your property is summer-ready, strategic marketing becomes crucial. Generic listings won’t stand out in the crowded summer marketplace.
Location-Specific Highlights
Every Devon location has unique summer selling points. Highlight proximity to:
- Beaches and coastal paths in Plymouth and South Devon
- Dartmoor National Park from Ivybridge properties
- Summer festivals and events in Kingsbridge
- Outdoor recreation in South Brent
- Woodland walks for properties near Woodlands
“We always recommend our landlords create location-specific marketing materials,” says Veronica. “A property in Ivybridge should emphasize different benefits than one in Plymouth or Kingsbridge.”
Digital Presence Optimization
Your online listing needs to work harder than ever:
- Use specific, descriptive titles that highlight summer benefits
- Include virtual tours and video walkthroughs
- Feature seasonal photographs that showcase summer living
- Emphasize outdoor spaces and natural light
- Use targeted keywords that summer renters search for
“The first 48 hours after listing are critical,” Rebecca notes. “Properties that generate strong initial interest typically rent faster and at better rates.”
Tenant Screening: Quality Over Speed
In the rush to secure summer tenants, many landlords make costly mistakes by compromising on tenant quality. In 2025, thorough screening is more important than ever.
Comprehensive Verification
Beyond standard credit checks, successful landlords are implementing:
- Enhanced reference verification (contacting previous landlords directly)
- Social media review (with appropriate privacy considerations)
- Video interviews for out-of-area applicants
- Verification of remote work arrangements
- Detailed discussion of lifestyle expectations
“Finding the right tenant is infinitely more valuable than finding the quickest tenant,” emphasizes Veronica. “A hasty decision can lead to months of problems, while careful selection builds the foundation for a positive, long-term relationship.”
Setting Clear Expectations
Summer tenants often have different expectations, particularly regarding:
- Garden maintenance responsibilities
- Noise considerations for outdoor gatherings
- Visitor policies during peak season
- Utility usage during hotter months
- Community and neighbourhood standards
Document these expectations clearly in your tenancy agreement to prevent misunderstandings later.
Retention Strategies: Keeping Great Tenants
Finding excellent tenants is only half the battle—keeping them is equally important. Tenant turnover is expensive, disruptive, and risky.
Proactive Communication
“The number one reason good tenants leave is poor communication,” explains Rebecca. “Establish clear channels from day one and be responsive to concerns.”
Successful landlords are implementing:
- Regular property check-ins (respecting privacy boundaries)
- Seasonal maintenance schedules
- Prompt response to repair requests
- Advance notice of any necessary works
- Occasional thoughtful gestures (holiday cards, renewal incentives)
Strategic Improvements
Consider targeted upgrades that increase both tenant satisfaction and property value:
- Smart home technology (security, lighting, climate control)
- Garden enhancements for outdoor enjoyment
- Kitchen and bathroom refreshes
- Energy efficiency improvements
- Storage solutions
“These investments serve multiple purposes,” Veronica points out. “They make current tenants happier, reduce the likelihood of turnover, and increase property value for future rentals or sale.”
The Your Home Let Devon Difference
As a family-run business led by Veronica and Rebecca Beaver, Your Home Let Devon brings a personal touch to property management across South Devon. Our intimate knowledge of local markets from Plymouth to South Brent allows us to provide tailored advice for maximizing your rental potential.
“We don’t just manage properties—we build relationships,” says Veronica. “Our success is measured by creating positive experiences for both landlords and tenants.”
Whether you’re looking to optimize a single rental property or manage an extensive portfolio, our team provides comprehensive support throughout the entire process. From professional photography and strategic marketing to thorough tenant screening and ongoing management, we handle every detail with professionalism and care.
Ready to make summer 2025 your most successful rental season yet? Visit Your Home Let Devon or contact Veronica directly at our agent page to discuss how we can help you attract and retain exceptional tenants this summer.
