How to Find Reliable Tenants in Exeter

A Practical Guide for Landlords

Introduction

Finding reliable tenants is one of the most important factors in running a successful rental property — especially when managing HMOs. In a city like Exeter, where demand comes from students, young professionals, and key workers, competition for tenants is strong. But high demand doesn’t automatically mean high-quality tenants.

Many landlords only realise the cost of poor tenant selection after missed rent, complaints, property damage, or frequent voids. This guide explains how Exeter landlords can attract, assess, and retain reliable tenants — and how professional management can significantly reduce risk.

Why Reliable Tenants Matter More in HMOs

HMOs are different from single lets. Multiple tenants mean:

• More wear and tear
• More communication
• Greater risk if one tenant causes issues
• Higher compliance expectations

One unsuitable tenant can disrupt an entire household, leading to disputes, early departures, and reputational damage. Reliable tenants don’t just pay rent on time — they contribute to a stable, well-functioning household.

Understand Who You’re Letting To in Exeter

Before advertising a room or property, it’s essential to understand the dominant tenant groups in Exeter:

• Students – High demand, predictable cycles, higher turnover
• Young professionals – Longer stays, higher expectations, value convenience
• Key workers – Often stable, reliable income, prefer well-managed homes

Each group responds to different marketing messages. Reliable tenants are usually those whose needs clearly match what your property offers.

Market Your Property Properly

The quality of enquiries you receive is directly linked to how your property is presented.

Reliable tenants are attracted by:

• Clear, honest listings
• High-quality photos
• Transparent pricing
• Accurate descriptions of house rules and expectations

Over-promising or vague listings often attract unsuitable tenants. Setting expectations early filters out people who aren’t a good fit.

Tenant Referencing: What Actually Matters

Referencing isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about risk reduction.

Key checks include:

• Proof of income or guarantor suitability
• Employment or study verification
• Previous landlord references
• Right-to-rent checks

In HMOs, consistency matters. Referencing should be applied equally to all tenants to maintain fairness and household balance.

Don’t Ignore Tenant Compatibility

One of the most overlooked aspects of HMO management is household mix.

Reliable tenants are more likely to stay long-term when:

• Work schedules are compatible
• Lifestyle expectations are similar
• House rules are clear and enforced

Professional HMO managers often prioritise compatibility as much as affordability — reducing disputes and turnover.

Timing Matters More Than You Think

In Exeter, tenant demand fluctuates throughout the year.

• Student demand peaks before academic terms
• Professional demand is steadier but competitive
• Delayed marketing often leads to rushed decisions

Planning ahead allows you to be selective rather than reactive.

Retaining Good Tenants Is Just as Important

Finding reliable tenants is only half the job — keeping them is where long-term profitability comes from.

Tenants are more likely to stay when:

• Maintenance issues are handled quickly
• Communication is professional and consistent
• The property is well maintained
• They feel respected and supported

High tenant satisfaction directly reduces voids and remarketing costs.

How Professional HMO Management Reduces Tenant Risk

Many Exeter landlords choose professional management not because they can’t find tenants — but because they want better tenants.

A professional HMO management company provides:

• Structured tenant sourcing
• Consistent referencing processes
• Ongoing tenant communication
• Active household management
• Faster issue resolution

This leads to fewer disputes, lower turnover, and more predictable rental income.

Final Thoughts

Reliable tenants don’t happen by luck. They are the result of clear marketing, proper screening, realistic expectations, and proactive management.

For landlords in Exeter, especially those running HMOs, tenant quality has a bigger impact on profitability than headline rental figures. Investing time — or professional support — into getting this right pays off long term.

Need Help Finding Reliable Tenants?

If you’re struggling with tenant turnover, disputes, or void periods, professional HMO management can remove the guesswork and risk.

Gil Rooms specialises in HMO and shared property management in Exeter, helping landlords secure reliable tenants and maintain stable, compliant homes.

👉 Get in touch today to discuss your property.