3 minute read

Is Your Property Investment Still Performing?

Let’s be honest — 2025 isn’t the same landscape landlords enjoyed a few years ago.

You might have bought that property thinking, “This will set me up for years.” And maybe it did — for a while.

But between rising mortgage rates, tightening legislation, and changes in tenant expectations, I’m seeing more and more landlords questioning whether their investment is still doing what it’s supposed to:

- “Is this still worth it?”
- “Should I stick or sell?”
- “Am I missing opportunities elsewhere?”

If that’s you, you’re not alone — and you’re not stuck either.

This blog is here to help you ask the right questions, and take the right next step.

Step 1: Look beyond the rent

If the rent still covers the mortgage, that’s a start — but it’s not the full story.

Have you factored in:

• The cost of renewing your EICR, new EPC targets, or licensing?

• Gaps between tenants — or late rent?

• Emergency repairs, wear-and-tear, or agent fees?

Even properties that “pay for themselves” can quietly eat into your cash flow when these costs stack up. I’ve seen landlords think they’re breaking even — only to discover they’re actually running at a loss once everything’s accounted for.

Step 2: Consider your future plans

Your property has to serve you — not the other way around.

So ask yourself:

• Is this part of a long-term strategy?

• Are you relying on this income now — or down the line?

• Is this still your best-performing asset?

If it’s no longer meeting your goals, it may be time to review, reset, or release it.

Step 3: Decide – Hold, Improve, or Sell

I always say there are only three real moves:

- HOLD

If your property is still cashflowing well, with stable tenants and low overheads — brilliant. Just make sure you’re ready for what’s coming with compliance and market shifts.

- IMPROVE

If the property has potential, there may be value in investing a bit more love. Rent reviews, better management, light upgrades — they can all give tired rentals a new lease of life.

- SELL

If the stress, the costs, or the return no longer stack up — it might be time to exit, smartly and strategically. Properties are still selling, and there are ways to make sure you don’t leave money on the table.

So, what’s the right move for you?

That’s exactly where we come in.

At VA, we don’t push a one-size-fits-all approach. We sit down with you, review your numbers, your goals, and your options — and help you work out whether to hold, improve, or sell.

Sometimes, we recommend listing.
Sometimes, we recommend re-tenanting.
And sometimes, we just recommend a proper rent review and a cup of tea.

Want an honest review of your investment?

Get a FREE Valuation
We’ll give you a clear picture of what your property’s worth, its rental potential, and how to optimise it — or sell smartly, if it’s time.

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Venessa Afonja
Director, VA Sales & Lettings