Autumn has its own rhythm. The leaves fall, evenings draw in, and households across the country begin using more heating and electricity. For landlords, it’s also the season to prepare, because what you do now will decide whether the winter months run smoothly or bring unexpected stress.

Rather than waiting for problems to appear, autumn is the chance to get ahead. A well-prepared property means happier tenants, fewer emergencies, and stronger returns. Here’s how to make the most of the season.

Start with seasonal maintenance

Cold, wet weather is the ultimate test for rental homes. Pipes, roofs, and boilers all work harder in the months ahead. Left unchecked, minor issues can escalate quickly, and tenants will notice.

Tasks to tackle now include:

• Boiler service
  A quick visit from a Gas Safe engineer keeps heating reliable and safe. Given that heating failures are one of the most common tenant complaints in winter, prevention really is cheaper than cure.
• Roof and gutter checks
  Stormy weather and falling leaves can wreak havoc. Loose tiles or clogged gutters may not sound urgent now, but they’re often the source of damp and leaks come January.
• Seal against draughts
  Replacing worn window and door seals helps tenants keep bills down and makes the property more energy efficient, a benefit for both landlord and tenant.
• Outdoor safety
  Slippery leaves, broken lights, or uneven paths can be a hazard. Well-lit, safe access matters more as nights get longer.
• Alarms and detectors
  Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must be checked regularly. They’re a legal requirement, but more importantly, they protect lives.

For landlords using EweMove’s full management service, these checks can be arranged and monitored by your local team, saving you time and worry.

Keep pace with compliance and energy rules

The private rental sector is evolving, and energy standards remain a focus. Autumn is a smart time to ensure your property is on the right side of regulation.

Gas and electrical safety

• Gas Safety Certificates must be renewed annually.
• Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) are required every five years.

Falling behind risks not only fines but also difficulty regaining possession if needed.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

At present, landlords must achieve a minimum rating of E. Although government proposals to raise the bar to C by 2028 have yet to be confirmed, energy efficiency improvements are already paying off in the rental market.

Tenants are increasingly looking for homes that cost less to run, and better-rated properties attract stronger demand.

Improvements to consider include:

• Loft insulation
• Modern heating controls
• LED lighting throughout
• Upgraded glazing

These changes make a property more attractive and help future-proof against potential rule changes.

Connect with tenants before issues grow

A landlord–tenant relationship is like any other: communication matters most when times are tough. Autumn is a great moment to check in, because the transition to colder, darker months often reveals new challenges for tenants.

Ways to stay connected:

• Proactive communication
  A short note about heating use, ventilation tips, and reporting procedures shows tenants you’re thinking ahead.
• Encourage early reporting
  Problems like condensation, mould, or noisy heating systems might seem minor to tenants, but they often indicate larger issues. Encourage tenants to get in touch early.

When handled well, these conversations prevent disputes and encourage tenants to stay longer, reducing costly void periods.

Check your rental income and returns

Beyond maintenance and compliance, autumn is also a financial checkpoint. With the year’s end approaching, landlords should review whether their rental income is on track.

Market context
According to Zoopla’s Rental Market Report (Autumn 2025), average rents have grown by 8.2% year-on-year, though growth is slowing as affordability stretches tenants’ budgets. Rightmove data also shows strong demand in many regions, but warns of longer marketing times where properties are priced above local averages.
What this means for landlords

• Review your yield
  Work out your net yield by accounting for mortgage payments, maintenance, insurance, and agent fees. If returns are slipping, it may be time to adjust rent or refinance.
• Benchmark locally
  Compare your rent against similar properties nearby. Competitive pricing prevents voids while ensuring you get fair value.
• Plan ahead
  Consider upcoming costs, such as EPC upgrades or increased mortgage rates, when deciding on rent reviews.

At EweMove, we provide free rental valuations with local data, helping landlords decide whether to adjust rents, refinance, or simply hold steady.

Think ahead to winter voids

If your property becomes vacant this autumn or winter, it’s more vulnerable to damage. Frozen pipes, damp, and break-ins are more likely in empty homes.

Simple steps can protect your property:

• Leave the heating on a frost setting
• Use timer switches for lights
• Check regularly or arrange inspections
• Secure all access points and outbuildings

EweMove’s managed service includes vacant property checks, meaning landlords can relax knowing their investment is safe even when empty.

Make the most of the season with smart planning

Autumn is more than a season of to-do lists. It’s about preparing for stability, both in property condition and rental income.

By acting now, landlords can:

• Reduce the risk of costly repairs
• Stay compliant with ever-changing regulations
• Build stronger tenant relationships
• Protect and grow rental yields
• Enter the new year with confidence

Why landlords choose EweMove

Landlord responsibilities don’t pause with the seasons, but they don’t need to feel overwhelming.

EweMove’s property management services are designed to take the stress away. From routine maintenance to legal compliance, rent collection to tenant care, our local teams handle the details so landlords can focus on the bigger picture.

With our mix of 24/7 tenant support, transparent financial reporting, and local expertise, landlords enjoy peace of mind and better returns.

Book your free valuation today

As autumn settles in, now’s the perfect time to check how your property is performing and prepare for the year ahead.

Book your free instant valuation with EweMove today!

Autumn might not be the first season that springs to mind when thinking about selling your home. But for 2025, it could be the golden season for getting your move in motion — especially if you're working with an agent who knows how to make your home stand out.

As the market shifts again following a turbulent few years of rate changes and buyer sentiment swings, the latest data from Rightmove, Zoopla and industry sources shows that autumn 2025 is shaping up to be a window of opportunity for sellers.

So, why is autumn the right time to list? What does the current property data tell us? And why should you consider EweMove to sell your home this season? Here’s your complete 2025 seller's guide.

What’s happening in the housing market this autumn?

The UK property market is constantly evolving, and the outlook this autumn brings a few interesting shifts.

Rightmove’s latest House Price Index (September 2025) shows a modest 0.4% rise in asking prices month-on-month, following a surprisingly resilient summer. Buyer demand is 9% higher than this time last year, with the average time to secure a buyer now standing at 51 days, down from 62 in autumn 2024.

Zoopla’s latest House Price Index also reports continued buyer activity, with demand particularly strong in mid-market family homes and downsizer-friendly bungalows. They've noted a 12% year-on-year increase in new buyer enquiries and a 6% rise in homes going under offer within two weeks.

Mortgage rates, which peaked in 2023, have started to settle. Many lenders are offering sub-4.5% five-year fixed deals, giving buyers more confidence to proceed — especially as inflation cools and economic stability improves.

Key trends to note:

• Buyer demand is increasing post-summer
  
  
• Fewer homes on the market compared to Q2
  
  
• Mortgage rates are holding steady
  
  
• Autumn buyers tend to be more serious and time-sensitive
  
  

Why autumn is a smart time to sell

While spring may take the crown for volume of listings, autumn is fast becoming the season for savvy sellers.

Here’s why:

1. Less competition, more visibility
Many homeowners wait until the new year to list, meaning fewer properties on the market in autumn. This means your home has a better chance to shine without being lost in the crowd.

2. Serious, motivated buyers
Autumn buyers are usually working to a timeline. Whether it's settling in before Christmas, securing a mortgage offer, or locking in a deal before year-end, they're ready to move.

3. Your home looks (and feels) its best
Golden light, cosy interiors, and colourful kerb appeal can help make a great first impression. Autumn is perfect for showcasing warmth and lifestyle appeal.

4. Market momentum
Data from previous years shows that homes listed in September and October often sell faster than those listed in early winter, when buyer activity dips before Christmas.

Why choose EweMove to sell your home this autumn?

Selling your home is more than just putting it on the portals. It’s about getting the right price, attracting the right buyer, and having the right team behind you. And that’s exactly where EweMove comes in.

We sell homes faster
According to recent network-wide data, EweMove properties spend fewer days on the market than the UK average. Our proactive marketing, flexible viewing hours and dedicated local agents all play a role.

We get better results
On average, EweMove homes achieve 98.1% of the asking price. That’s not just down to luck — it’s our proven strategy of pricing correctly, marketing intelligently, and negotiating confidently.

We’re open when others aren’t
Evenings, weekends, early mornings — we don’t shut up shop at 5pm. That means more viewings, more offers, and less time waiting around.

We’re real people with real care
We're not just here to "list and leave". Our local property experts live where they work, know the area inside-out, and are with you from valuation to keys handed over.

We’re rated excellent
Don’t just take our word for it. We’re proud to be rated Excellent on Trustpilot by thousands of happy sellers and buyers.

How to prepare your home to sell this autumn

Autumn buyers are usually focused and ready to commit — so it pays to make your home look its best. Here are some tried-and-tested ways to prepare:

Declutter and depersonalise
Pack away personal items, excess furniture and anything that distracts from your home’s features. Less is definitely more.

Set the mood
Use soft lighting, warm colours and seasonal touches to create a cosy vibe. A fresh pumpkin-scented candle and a tidy hallway can go a long way.

Maximise light
Autumn daylight hours are shorter, so open curtains fully and clean windows inside and out to keep rooms bright.

Tidy up the garden
Clear fallen leaves, trim hedges and sweep paths. Buyers still look at outdoor space, even if they’re not planning a BBQ.

Get professional photos early
With weather changes in autumn, you’ll want to capture your home in the best possible light. Book your shoot early in the day and ideally on a dry, bright morning.

Ready to get started? Book your no-obligation valuation with your local EweMove agent today.

What kind of buyers are looking this autumn?

You might be surprised at how varied the autumn buyer pool is. Understanding who’s looking can help you position your home accordingly.

Families
They may have missed the summer window but are still eager to settle before the school year kicks into full swing or before the holidays.

First-time buyers
With stable rates and slightly more affordable options post-summer, many first-time buyers are getting mortgage approvals and ready to act.

Downsizers
After summer holidays, many empty nesters reassess their space needs and list quickly — and they’re looking to buy too.

Investors
Many landlords look to purchase before the end of the tax year. Autumn gives them time to do their sums and secure finance.

FAQs: Selling your home in autumn

Is autumn a bad time to sell?
Not at all. In fact, with fewer homes on the market and committed buyers, it can be a very effective time to achieve a fast, solid sale.

Do I need to drop the price in autumn?
Not if you work with an agent who knows how to position your property. Pricing right from the start is key — and that’s what we do best.

How quickly can I expect to sell?
Homes that are well-presented, correctly priced, and actively marketed (like with EweMove!) often go under offer within a few weeks.

What if I want to sell now but move later?
That’s entirely possible. Our agents can help you structure dates and terms to suit your timeline.

Will I still get viewings in darker evenings?
Absolutely. We offer flexible viewing slots, including evenings and weekends, to make sure buyers don’t miss out — and neither do you.

Ready to move this autumn? Let’s talk

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to selling your home. But this autumn, the stars are aligning for those who act smartly and decisively.

With strong buyer demand, stabilised mortgage rates, and motivated movers in the market, autumn 2025 could be the perfect time to take the next step.

And with EweMove, you’ll have a team that doesn’t just understand the market — we understand you.

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, relocating or just testing the waters, we’re here to guide you with honesty, data and a smile.

Book your free, no-pressure valuation now

Whether you live in a compact flat, a shared student house, or a cosy terrace, one thing is certain: winter brings higher energy bills. For tenants in older homes especially, staying warm without breaking the bank can feel like a challenge.

With energy costs still a concern across the UK, and household budgets already stretched, it pays to know the simple, practical steps you can take right now. The good news is that you do not need to spend much or make major changes to cut your bills. Small adjustments and smart habits can add up to big savings.

In this guide, we will cover everything from draught-proofing on a shoestring to understanding your EPC rating, knowing your landlord’s responsibilities, and reporting repairs before they become bigger problems. By the end, you will have a winter-ready plan for keeping your home warm and your wallet happy.

Why Energy Bills Can Hit Renters Hard

While rising bills affect everyone, tenants often face specific challenges.

• Older rental homes may have single glazing, thinner walls, or outdated heating systems.
• Shared houses can drive up energy use when flatmates are not on the same page.
• Limited control means tenants cannot always make big upgrades, such as replacing windows or improving insulation.

That is why the focus has to be on tenant-friendly solutions: small, affordable changes that do not require major alterations.

How to Draught-Proof on a Shoestring

Draughts are one of the sneakiest culprits when it comes to wasted heat. They let warm air escape and cold air in, which means you are effectively paying to heat the outdoors. Luckily, stopping them does not need to cost much.

Quick wins for tenants

• Draught excluders: A simple rolled-up towel or a low-cost draught stopper under the door keeps warm air in.
• DIY window film: Transparent plastic film sticks across windows to reduce heat loss. It is removable and cheap to buy.
• Thermal curtains: If you can, invest in lined or heavy curtains. Close them as soon as it gets dark.
• Rugs and mats: Covering wooden floors stops cold draughts sneaking up from below.
• Letterbox and keyhole covers: Small details can make a big difference. These can be fitted for just a few pounds.
• Chimney balloons: If your rental has an unused fireplace, a chimney balloon prevents warm air escaping.

Pro tip: Focus on the rooms you use most. Even draught-proofing just the living room or bedroom can make a noticeable difference to comfort and your bills.

Why EPC Ratings Matter (And Where to Find Yours)

Every rental property in the UK must have an Energy Performance Certificate, also known as an EPC. This document gives the home a rating from A, which is most efficient, to G, which is least efficient, along with estimated running costs and suggested improvements.

Why tenants should pay attention

1. Lower bills: A flat with an EPC rating of C will usually be far cheaper to run than one rated E or below.
2. Legal standards: Landlords must ensure their properties meet a minimum EPC rating of E, unless exempt.
3. Forward planning: If you are choosing between rentals, EPCs are a great comparison tool. A slightly higher rent in a more efficient home could save you more in monthly bills.

You can check your home’s EPC easily on the government’s online EPC register. All you need is the property address.

What Your Landlord Is Responsible For and What You Can Ask For

As a tenant, it helps to know exactly what your landlord is responsible for. That way, you are not left paying the price for issues that should be addressed.

Landlords are typically responsible for

• Heating and hot water systems
• Boilers, radiators, and plumbing
• The structure and exterior of the property, including insulation, walls, roofs, and windows
• Electrical wiring and appliances they provide

Tenants, meanwhile, are expected to

• Replace lightbulbs and fuses
• Use heating and appliances responsibly
• Keep the property ventilated to reduce damp and mould
• Report problems promptly

Reasonable requests you can make

• Boiler servicing: Ask when it was last serviced. It should be checked annually.
• Radiator maintenance: If your radiators do not heat evenly, the system may need bleeding or balancing.
• Window repairs: If frames are damaged or do not close properly, let your landlord know.
• Energy-saving upgrades: LED lighting, smart meters, or improved insulation are worth raising in conversation.

Tip: Always report requests in writing and keep a record. This protects both you and your landlord and ensures clear communication.

How to Report Repairs Early (Before They Get Worse)

Small issues can quickly snowball into bigger problems if ignored. And when it comes to energy bills, delays can be costly.

Repairs worth reporting right away

• Boiler noises or pressure drops: This could mean the system is struggling.
• Leaky windows and doors: These can massively increase heating costs.
• Damp or mould patches: Often a sign of poor ventilation or leaks.
• Cold radiators: May indicate trapped air or system issues.
  
  

Best practice

1. Report in writing, ideally by email.
2. Include photos or videos.
3. Follow up if nothing is done within a reasonable timeframe.

Not only does this save you money on bills, but it also keeps your home safe and comfortable.

Everyday Habits That Make a Big Difference

Beyond repairs and draught-proofing, the way you use energy day to day has a huge impact.

• Thermostat savvy: Reducing the setting by just one degree could save around £100 a year.
• Use timers: Heat only when you need to, such as mornings and evenings.
• Shut doors: Keep warm air in the rooms you are using.
• Laundry tips: Wash at 30°C and only run full loads.
• Unplug devices: Chargers, TVs, and consoles still use power on standby.
• Cook efficiently: Use lids on pans, batch cook meals, and only boil the water you need.
• Air-dry clothes: Tumble dryers are one of the biggest energy guzzlers.

These are small, low-effort changes, but together they can take a significant chunk off your winter bills.

Planning Ahead for Next Winter

Even as you focus on staying warm this year, it is worth thinking about the future. If you are considering moving, energy performance should be part of your checklist.

When viewing properties, ask:

• What is the EPC rating?
• Are the windows single or double glazed?
• How old is the boiler, and when was it last serviced?
• Is there loft or wall insulation?

At EweMove, we understand that tenants want homes that are warm, efficient, and affordable. By factoring energy performance into your next rental search, you can make sure your new home is not only welcoming but also economical to run.

Conclusion

Winter bills do not have to overwhelm you, even if you live in an older or less efficient rental property. With a combination of draught-proofing, understanding your EPC, clear communication with your landlord, and a few everyday energy-saving habits, you can cut costs while keeping comfortable.

At EweMove, we are committed to helping tenants find homes that feel warm and welcoming all year round.

Find your next warm, welcoming rental with EweMove today.