Landlords: Is Your Property a Hidden Gem or Just...Hidden?

What Makes a “Hidden Gem”?

A hidden gem is a property that should be snapped up quickly. It has solid features—maybe a spacious layout, great location, or modern upgrades—but it’s not getting the attention it deserves. That usually means one of two things is going wrong:

1. Tenants aren’t seeing it

2. Tenants are seeing it, but they’re not impressed

3. The price may not match other properties within the area

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Step 1: Check Your Online Visibility

Most tenants start their search online. If your listing isn’t showing up in the right places (or at all), you’re invisible to 90% of renters. Ask yourself:

• Is your property on Rightmove and Zoopla?

• Are the photos high quality?

• Is the description accurate and engaging?

• Is the rent competitive for the area?

Top Tip: Listings with bright, clean, professional photos get significantly more clicks. Don’t underestimate a good photo of a tidy kitchen.

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Step 2: First Impressions Matter

A gem still needs polishing. Even the best property can be passed over if it looks like hard work.

Here’s what tenants notice immediately:

• Grubby walls or worn carpets

• Overgrown gardens

• Outdated furnishings or clutter

• Poor lighting or strange smells

Quick Fixes:
Fresh paint, a clean-up, and a few modern touches can completely transform tenant perception.

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Step 3: Pricing – Be Realistic, Not Sentimental

Wakefield’s rental market is price-sensitive. Tenants are savvy and they compare properties within seconds. If your rent is £50–£100 above similar homes nearby, you're likely to be scrolled past.

Still unsure what to charge? A local lettings agent (like us at Hodsons) can give you a realistic valuation based on current demand.

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Step 4: Tenant Appeal – Are You Targeting the Right Audience?

Your property might be perfect for the right tenant. A two-bed apartment in Wakefield city centre might suit young professionals, while a semi-detached in Sandal may appeal to families. Your marketing should reflect this.

Example: If your property has fast broadband and a home office space, call that out for remote workers.

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Step 5: Fix the Hidden Flaws

Tenants are increasingly cautious and for good reason. If you’re hiding issues like a faulty boiler, damp patches, or a broken extractor fan, expect viewings to drop off quickly. Transparency builds trust.

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Turn Your Hidden Gem into a Hot Listing

If your property ticks all the boxes and still isn’t letting, it may just need a fresh pair of eyes. At Hodsons Lettings, we help landlords:

• Review and optimise listings

• Advise on presentation and improvements

• Market properties across top platforms

• Find and reference great tenants

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Ready to shine a light on your hidden gem?
Get in touch with our lettings team today, we’d love to help.