Lettings Market Update - Spring 2026

19 May, 2026

After a busy start to the year for letting property in the Hampshire area, the buoyant rental market has continued into the second quarter.

The first phase of the Renters Reform Act became active at the beginning of May. Introducing changes to tenancy terms and the way we give notices. Pleasingly, we have not seen the predicted exodus of Landlords from the market and both property availability and demand are currently well balanced. Rents are still continuing their upward trend, although not quite at the frenetic pace of last year. 

The new processes, for increasing rent have now come into place, and as expected, contain ‘Bear Traps’ for the unwary. Therefore, we recommend that Landlords ensure that they review the current rental value of their properties, and propose increases where needed. Delaying a rent increase, may cause you issues in the future, if you try to correct a low rent with a large uplift. We are ready to assist you with this process.

Pearsons continues to believe that there is still a place in the market for small scale landlords, provided that they concentrate on good quality properties, maintaining them in good condition, and thus yielding a good income in return.

If you are considering entering the rental market as a landlord, please speak to your local branch, who will be happy to discuss local property needs and likely rental outcomes.