What Makes a Great Tenant? Advice from a Letting Agent
Finding the right tenant can feel like a balancing act for landlords – and for tenants, securing a home in a competitive market like Bath often feels equally challenging. But when the fit is right on both sides, the result is a smoother, more positive experience for everyone involved.
At Zest, we’ve supported hundreds of landlords and tenants across Bath, and one thing is always clear: a great tenancy is built on mutual trust, clear communication and shared respect. Whether you’re a landlord hoping to spot the signs of a reliable renter or a tenant wondering how to make the right impression, this guide is here to help.
Why a Good Tenant-Landlord Relationship Matters
We know (better than most) that renting can be stressful. Landlords want peace of mind that their property is in good hands. Tenants want to feel comfortable, safe and respected in their home. When expectations are clear and the relationship is built on trust, things tend to run far more smoothly.
From a landlord’s perspective, a great tenant means fewer void periods, fewer maintenance surprises, and far less worry. For tenants, having a responsive, fair landlord (or letting agent) makes all the difference when it comes to enjoying the space you live in and feeling confident in your tenancy.
At its core, renting isn’t just a transaction – it’s a relationship. And like any relationship, the best ones are based on communication, reliability and a bit of understanding on both sides.
What Landlords Often Look For in a Tenant
While every landlord has their own priorities, certain qualities come up time and again – and for good reason.
Reliability tends to top the list. Paying rent on time each month creates a solid foundation of trust. But equally important is how a tenant communicates. Letting someone know about a small maintenance issue early on – before it becomes a bigger problem – shows you’re looking after the property and being proactive.
Landlords also appreciate tenants who treat the home with respect. That doesn’t mean it needs to be spotless 24/7, but caring for the space, reporting damage quickly, and keeping things in reasonable condition all help build a positive track record.
Longer tenancies are often preferred too. Constant turnover can be costly and time-consuming for landlords, so tenants who are happy to stay in a property for a year or more – and maintain good communication throughout – are generally viewed as more favourable.
It’s also worth noting that landlords aren’t just thinking about the here and now – they’re often trying to plan ahead. A tenant with stable employment, solid references, and a straightforward, open approach during the application process helps them feel confident they’re making a good choice.
For Tenants: How to Make a Great Impression
We understand that for tenants, especially in a busy market like Bath, the pressure to stand out can feel overwhelming. But making a good impression isn’t about being perfect – it’s about being prepared, honest, and easy to work with.
First impressions still matter. Arriving on time for a viewing, being polite and friendly, and showing genuine interest in the property can really help you stand out. But beyond that, having everything ready – references, proof of income, ID – shows you’re serious and organised.
Landlords and agents also really value clear communication. If you have specific needs (like a pet, or wanting a longer tenancy), don’t be afraid to say so early on. Being upfront saves time and helps ensure the property is a good fit for you too.
And once you’re in, being a great tenant is mostly about the little things: staying in touch if something goes wrong, keeping the space tidy, and following the terms of your agreement. These are the qualities that turn a good tenancy into a great one – and they’re usually the ones that lead to glowing references and a stress-free renting experience.
Common Concerns and Red Flags
From the landlord’s side, there are a few common concerns they may be on the lookout for – and understanding these can help tenants navigate the process more smoothly.
Poor references, a lack of rental history, or gaps in employment aren’t necessarily dealbreakers, but they can raise questions. What matters most is how those situations are explained. If you’re open and honest, most landlords (especially when supported by an experienced agent) will take that into account.
For landlords, working with a letting agent helps reduce the uncertainty. Agents handle reference checks, verify documents, and help assess affordability – so the process is fair and consistent, even when tricky situations arise.
How Letting Agents Make Life Easier – for Everyone
At Zest, we act as a bridge between landlords and tenants. For landlords, we take the time to understand their property and priorities, carefully matching them with tenants who meet those needs. For tenants, we make sure the process is clear, the expectations are realistic, and the lines of communication are always open.
We know that renting a home is a big step – whether you’re letting out your property or moving into it. That’s why we work hard to support both sides, ensuring things run smoothly from the very first viewing to the final checkout.
And because we’re based right here in Bath, we understand the local market inside out – which means we can offer practical, timely advice that really works for you.
Whether you’re a landlord looking to place your property in safe hands, or a tenant searching for somewhere to settle, the team at Zest is here to help guide you every step of the way. Get in touch today.
Get in touch with Zest today to discover how we help landlords and tenants build better rental experiences across Bath.
