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:
Tenants aren’t seeing it
Tenants are seeing it, but they’re not impressed
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.
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Outdated furnishings or clutter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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Ready to shine a light on your hidden gem?
Get in touch with our lettings team today, we’d love to help.
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