Ilford is one of east London’s most popular places to rent. Knowing what tenants want helps you let faster and keep good tenants for longer.
The wider picture
London rents remain high compared with the rest of the country. A summer 2026 report from KFH put the London average at about £2,418 a month, well above the UK average, with demand still ahead of supply in many areas. Rents in Ilford vary by property type, size and condition, so the best guide is a valuation of your own property.
What tenants look for
- Transport: Good links matter most. Ilford has the Elizabeth line, and the Central line serves nearby Gants Hill and Redbridge.
- Condition: Clean, well-maintained homes with working heating, hot water and appliances let first.
- Space and light: Good-sized rooms, storage and outdoor space are all valued.
- Running costs: A better energy rating means lower bills, which tenants notice.
- Pets: Many tenants have pets, and since the Renters’ Rights Act you must consider each request fairly.
- Local life: Schools, parks and shops close by. Valentines Park is a favourite.
Pricing your property
Since the Renters’ Rights Act, you advertise at a fixed rent and cannot accept bids above it. Rent can then be increased only once a year by formal notice. That makes it important to set the right rent from the start. A rent set too high leaves the property empty and costs you more than a small reduction would. A fair rent attracts good applicants quickly and reduces the chance of an empty property.
Keeping tenants
Tenants stay longer when repairs are dealt with quickly and communication is clear. A good tenant who stays for several years saves you the cost and the gap of finding a new one.
Find out what your property could rent for
We offer a free rental valuation and will tell you what your property could achieve, how we would market it and what to expect. Book online or call us on 020 8553 3036.
This article is general information and not financial advice.
