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EXPERT ADVICE

Private renting in a post-Bill world:

Is it still worth being a landlord in Scotland? Urban and well-connected areas, such as
Edinburgh, continue to experience healthy
yields and low vacancy rates. Properties
here still let quickly (average of 24 days for a
Nicky Lloyd, Head of ESPC Lettings takes a balanced look at the changes, 1-bedroom property: Citylets Market Overview
exploring why some landlords may be reassessing their position Q1 2025), and for landlords who take a
professional, strategic approach, there is a
compelling case for staying in the market.

ith the Scottish Government’s particularly those with one or two properties, The key difference now is that private letting
Housing Bill moving through the have decided to sell. The result has been a is no longer a passive investment. It requires
W legislative process, one question gradual reduction in private rental stock, which active involvement, a long-term view, and The Housing Bill marks a clear move towards a
keeps coming up in conversations with risks making it even harder for tenants to find a willingness to adapt. The most successful more regulated, professionalised rental sector.
landlords: is it still worth it? a home. landlords treat their properties as a business, This will not suit everyone, and some landlords
keeping them well-maintained, providing high will choose to exit. But for those willing to
The private rented sector in Scotland has Yet, despite these pressures, the fundamentals standards of service to tenants, and staying embrace the changes, it can still be a rewarding
always played a vital role in providing homes, of demand remain strong. Many first-time ahead of legal requirements. Many choose to and stable investment. The combination of
offering flexibility for tenants and stable income buyers are renting for longer before stepping work with experienced letting agents, whose ongoing demand, the potential for capital
for landlords. But the Bill signals a shift in how onto the property ladder, and the number of expertise helps ensure compliance, maximise growth, and the security of a tangible asset
the sector will operate. While its measures are single-person households continues to grow. returns, and reduce risk. remains attractive, especially when supported
designed to improve affordability and security by sound advice and careful planning.
for tenants, they also introduce new challenges
for those who let property.
Letting in Scotland is evolving, but it remains
viable for those who are proactive and well-
The proposed legislation will bring permanent prepared. By understanding the new rules,
rent controls tied to local affordability, stronger budgeting for compliance, and working with
tenant protections, and clearer eviction rules. the right professionals, landlords can not only
Landlords will also face tighter enforcement navigate the post-Bill world but thrive in it.
of registration requirements and a greater
emphasis on energy efficiency and property At ESPC Lettings, we are committed to
condition. These reforms are intended to supporting landlords through this period of
raise standards, but they inevitably add to change. Our role is to provide clear, practical
the cost and administrative burden of letting, guidance that combines legal expertise with
particularly for those who manage properties deep knowledge of the Scottish rental market.
themselves.
Whether you are considering entering the
sector, expanding your portfolio, or reassessing
This comes on top of a financial environment your strategy, we can help you make informed
that is already more challenging than in the decisions and move forward with confidence.
past. Mortgage rates, while easing from their
2023 peak, remain well above pre-pandemic
levels. Rent caps can limit income growth,
and maintaining compliance with changing ESPC Lettings is an Edinburgh letting agent. We can
help with marketing your rental property and finding the
regulations, especially around energy right tenants.
performance, requires investment of both time
and money. Unsurprisingly, some landlords, Contact the team on 0131 253 2847 or landlord@espc.com.

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