It would be easy to describe the current state of Scotland’s lettings sector as busy. Demand is strong, stock remains limited and, on paper at least, many landlords are seeing favourable returns.
But beneath that surface sits a more uncomfortable truth.
By
Dave Dyer, Managing Director of Domus
Standards, in too many parts of the sector, have slipped. A quiet acceptance of “that’ll do” has crept in. Homes are listed, tenants are placed and processes are followed, but often without the care, detail or thought that should underpin what is, for most landlords, a significant asset.
For a long time, that has been allowed to continue.
From our perspective at Domus, it presents something else entirely: an opportunity to do things differently.
We have always believed that lettings should be approached with the same care and attention as residential sales. That means understanding not just the rental value of a property, but how it should be positioned, who it should be introduced to and how it is managed thereafter. It also means recognising the dual nature of every let. To a landlord, it is an asset. To a tenant, it is a home. The best outcomes are achieved when both are treated with equal consideration.
“We are not building a portfolio of thousands of homes.”
“We are not building a portfolio of thousands of homes.”
That philosophy naturally leads to a different way of operating.
We are not building a portfolio of thousands of homes. We are not driven by volume. Our focus is on quality, on relationships and on ensuring that every property we manage is handled properly from start to finish.
When a client calls, they speak to someone who understands their property and their position. In many cases, that means speaking directly to me. It is a deliberately hands-on approach, because we believe that is what the role demands – and it matters now more than ever.
We are operating in a world where events far beyond our shores are having a tangible impact on everyday life here in Scotland. Mortgage costs shift, energy prices move and broader economic sentiment ebbs and flows. For landlords, navigating that landscape requires more than administration. It requires advice, clarity and a steady hand.
“Because the sector deserves better than “that’ll do”…and so do our clients.”
“Because the sector deserves better than “that’ll do”…and so do our clients.”
Which brings us to something new.
This month, we are introducing The Rent Report – a monthly commentary designed to provide a clear, contemporary view of the lettings market. It will include commentary on the trends shaping the sector and the practical considerations landlords should be aware of.
It is intended to be useful. To offer perspective. And, perhaps most importantly, to raise the standard of conversation around lettings.
Because the sector deserves better than “that’ll do”…and so do our clients.
We will be issuing the first copy of The Rent Report next week, but if you would like to receive an advance copy, please drop me an email at d.dyer@domus-letting.co.uk and I will personally send one to you.