With its leafy streets, thriving high street and excellent schools, Horsforth has long been one of Leeds’ most desirable suburbs. But it’s not just buyers who are drawn in – landlords and investors are taking notice too.
If you’re considering investing in a rental property in Leeds, Horsforth offers strong yields, stable demand and long-term tenants who tend to stick around. It’s a safe bet for steady income with wide appeal.
Here’s what you need to know about letting property in Horsforth – and why it’s such a popular place for renters.
Where is Horsforth?
Horsforth sits around six miles north-west of Leeds city centre, with direct rail links to both Leeds and Harrogate. It’s close to the A65, Ring Road, and Leeds Bradford Airport and surrounded by equally popular suburbs like Rawdon, Cookridge and West Park.
From a lettings perspective, this connectivity makes Horsforth ideal for:
- City centre commuters
- Airport staff
- Professionals working in business parks or hospitals
- Students at Leeds Trinity University
Why Horsforth works for landlords
There are a few key reasons why Horsforth is consistently in demand:
A wide tenant pool
Horsforth attracts:
- Young professionals renting modern flats or terrace homes
- Families looking for larger homes near good schools
- Postgraduates and students attending Leeds Trinity University
- Relocating workers who want a balance of lifestyle and access
It’s rare to find one area that appeals to so many different tenant types – which means fewer void periods and more choice of properties to let.
Long-term lets and loyalty
Horsforth tenants often stay longer than average – especially families and professionals. They like the area, feel part of the community, and tend to treat properties with care.
For landlords, this means:
- Lower turnover
- Fewer admin costs
- Less wear and tear
- Better continuity of income
What types of properties let well in Horsforth?
Horsforth has a broad mix of rental property – from period terraces to modern flats and larger family homes. Here’s what performs well:
1–2 bed apartments
Popular with professionals and couples. Many blocks are newer builds with allocated parking and good EPC ratings.
Average monthly rent: £850–£1,100
Rental yield estimate: 5–6% (depending on purchase price)
2–3 bed terraces or semis
Highly sought after by couples and small families. Good locations near schools or parks let very quickly.
Average monthly rent: £1,000–£1,400
Rental yield estimate: 4.5–5.5%
4-bed detached homes
In demand with professional families and corporate tenants. Often command higher rents with longer lets.
Average monthly rent: £1,600–£2,000
Rental yield estimate: 4–5%
HMOs or student lets
Some landlords near Leeds Trinity University operate small HMOs. These work well in the right locations and with proper licensing.
Average rent per room: £450–£550 (bills included)
Rental yield estimate: 7%+
What tenants love about Horsforth
If you’re letting a property, knowing what draws tenants in can help you market it better – or pick the right place to invest.
Tenants love Horsforth for:
- Local lifestyle: independent shops, pubs, restaurants and cafés
- Outdoor space: Hall Park, the canal towpath, and riverside walks
- Community feel: great for families and quieter than the city centre
- Transport links: trains, buses and easy access to the city
- Good schools: particularly for families planning to stay long term
This blend of lifestyle and convenience is what keeps Horsforth consistently high on rental wish lists.
EPCs, compliance and energy efficiency
Most properties in Horsforth were built after the 1900s, so many have solid EPC performance – especially apartments and newer homes.
But as with all UK rentals, landlords must ensure:
- An EPC rating of E or above (C is recommended for future-proofing)
- Up-to-date Gas Safety and EICR checks
- Working smoke and CO alarms
- HMO licensing, where applicable
Energy-efficient properties will always rent faster – and may command a higher price.
What are the typical void periods?
Lettings in Horsforth move quickly – especially if priced correctly and marketed well.
- 1–2 bed flats: let within 7–10 days on average
- 3-bed homes: 10–14 days
- Larger family homes: 2–3 weeks
- HMOs: seasonal, but usually secure full occupancy before the academic year
Properties near Town Street, Station Road, and the train station tend to perform best for speed and consistency.
Where to invest in Horsforth?
If you’re thinking of expanding your portfolio, the following areas are worth exploring:
- Town Street – for strong local amenities and easy walkability
- Broadway and Woodside – family homes with good school access
- Newlay and Rawdon side – near green space and larger properties
- Near Leeds Trinity University – best for student rentals and HMOs
Local knowledge matters here – as different streets can command very different rental prices.
Should you self-manage or go fully managed?
If you live locally, you might be happy managing your property yourself. But many landlords prefer the peace of mind that comes with a fully managed lettings service – especially in winter or during peak turnover months.
Benefits include:
- Rent collection and arrears handling
- 24/7 emergency maintenance cover
- Legal compliance checks and renewals
- Annual safety inspections
- Marketing, photography, and tenant referencing
- Inventory and deposit handling
Letting in Horsforth? We can help
At Hunters Leeds, we’ve been helping landlords let property in Horsforth and surrounding areas for years. Whether you’re just starting out or growing your portfolio, we’ll give you honest advice and a service that works around you.
Book a free lettings valuation or landlord consultation
Let’s help you find the right tenants, the right returns – and less stress all round.
