For landlords in Bridgend, 2025 is both a challenging and exciting time. With tenant demand holding strong, property prices offering competitive entry points, and rental growth continuing, it remains a great place for buy-to-let. But rising mortgage costs, higher compliance standards and shifting tenant expectations mean landlords need to be proactive if they want to maximise their rental income.
At Hunters Bridgend, we’ve pulled together 10 practical strategies that can help landlords improve yields, reduce voids and build long-term success in the local market.
Bridgend rental market snapshot: 2025
Let’s start with the latest data from Rightmove and Zoopla:
- Average monthly rent in Bridgend: £875 (Zoopla Rental Index, Q3 2025)
- Annual rent growth: 5.9%, slightly higher than the Wales average of 5.4%
- Average property price in Bridgend: £188,000 (Rightmove HPI, July 2025)
- Gross yields: typically range between 4.5% and 6.1%, depending on property type and area
Tenant demand is driven by a combination of factors: proximity to Cardiff and Swansea, excellent transport links (including the M4 corridor and direct rail services), strong schools, and a balance between affordability and lifestyle appeal.
1. Review your rent regularly
Many landlords set a rent and then forget about it for years. With property costs and demand rising, this can mean lost income. Benchmarking your property against similar listings on Rightmove and Zoopla is a quick way to check you’re not undercharging.
Equally, be careful not to overprice. Bridgend tenants are price-sensitive, and rents that are too high risk extended voids. Hunters Bridgend can provide accurate rental valuations so landlords set the right balance between income and demand.
2. Minimise void periods
Every week a property sits empty is lost income. To reduce voids:
- Market properties early before current tenants move out
- Offer renewal terms to good tenants well in advance
- Use high-quality marketing materials to attract interest quickly
Even shaving one week off a void period can make a noticeable difference to annual returns.
3. Present your property well
Tenant expectations are higher than ever. Neutral décor, modern kitchens and bathrooms, and clean flooring make a huge difference to rent levels. Consider professional cleaning between lets to ensure your property shines.
Good presentation extends to photography. Online listings are a tenant’s first impression, so professional images can result in faster lets and fewer voids.
4. Invest in energy efficiency
Energy bills remain a top concern for tenants. Homes with higher EPC ratings often let faster and at stronger rents.
Landlords should consider:
- Upgrading to double glazing
- Improving loft or cavity wall insulation
- Installing energy-efficient boilers and smart heating controls
Not only will this futureproof against proposed EPC minimum C standards, but it also makes your property more appealing in today’s market.
5. Offer flexibility
Flexibility can open your property to a wider tenant pool.
- Offer both furnished and unfurnished options where possible
- Consider allowing pets, with appropriate tenancy terms
- Provide flexible tenancy lengths to suit professionals or families
Properties with more options often achieve higher rents and longer tenancies.
6. Target high-demand tenant groups
Understanding who your likely tenants are helps you tailor your approach. In Bridgend, key tenant groups include:
- Families: attracted by good schools and larger homes
- Professionals: commuting to Cardiff or Swansea
- Corporate lets: relocation tenants linked to major employers in South Wales
Highlight features that matter to these groups — gardens and parking for families, broadband and transport links for professionals.
7. Stay compliant
Compliance failures don’t just risk fines; they can also damage your ability to let quickly.
Landlords in 2025 must ensure:
- Annual Gas Safety Certificates are up to date
- EPC meets minimum E rating (aim for C in the future)
- Electrical Installation Condition Reports are valid (renew every 5 years)
- Smoke and CO alarms are installed and working
- Deposits are protected in a government-approved scheme
- Right to Rent checks are completed and documented
With the Renters’ Reform Bill due to reshape the lettings landscape, landlords also need to prepare for changes such as the end of Section 21 evictions and the move to periodic tenancies.
8. Proactive property maintenance
Preventative maintenance saves money and improves tenant satisfaction. Schedule regular inspections and act quickly on repair requests.
Simple measures like servicing boilers annually, clearing gutters, and replacing worn fixtures keep properties attractive and reduce costly emergency repairs.
9. Add value with extras
Small investments can help your property stand out:
- Broadband included in rent
- Secure parking or bike storage
- Garden upgrades or decking
- Built-in storage solutions
In a competitive market, these extras can justify higher rents and reduce turnover.
10. Work with a professional letting agent
Managing a rental property takes time and expertise. Professional letting agents like Hunters Bridgend can:
- Market your property effectively
- Vet tenants thoroughly
- Handle rent collection and compliance
- Reduce voids through proactive management
For many landlords, the added income from fewer voids and higher-quality tenants outweighs the cost of management fees.
Considerations for landlords
While Bridgend is a strong rental market, landlords should be mindful of broader factors:
- Mortgage interest rates: higher borrowing costs can reduce yields
- Tax changes: evolving landlord tax rules impact profitability
- Competition: new rental stock in Cardiff and Swansea may influence demand
Balancing investment in upgrades with realistic returns is key.
Conclusion
Bridgend remains one of the most promising rental markets in Wales. By reviewing rents regularly, reducing voids, presenting homes well, and investing in energy efficiency and tenant experience, landlords can maximise their rental income in 2025.
At Hunters Bridgend, we work with landlords to achieve the best results. From valuations and compliance advice to full management, our expertise makes renting simpler and more profitable.
- Request a free rental valuation
- Learn about our landlord services
- Speak to our team today for tailored advice on maximising rental income.
With the right approach, your Bridgend rental can deliver stronger yields and long-term stability in 2025 and beyond.
