What I Have Learned in 11 Years of Lettings

When I started as a negotiator, the lettings industry felt different. Not worse or better in every way, but simpler in some respects and less regulated in others. Eleven years on, the job is still about people and properties, but the context has shifted.

Tenant expectations have risen. Rightly so. People expect a professional service, clear communication, and a property that is safe and compliant. Deposit protection changed the game: tenants know their money is protected and agents and landlords have to follow the rules. The same goes for gas safety, electrical checks, and EPC requirements. Compliance is not optional anymore, and that is a good thing.

Technology has changed how we work. Property portals, digital signing, online referencing — the admin is faster and more transparent. But the core of the job is still the same: understanding what a landlord needs, finding a tenant who is a good fit, and making sure the tenancy runs smoothly. No amount of tech replaces that.

What would I tell my younger self? Trust the process. Do the referencing properly. Do not skip the small stuff. And remember that most people — landlords and tenants — are trying to do the right thing. When something goes wrong, it is usually because of a missed step or a miscommunication, not malice. Fix the process and move on.

The industry will keep evolving. Regulation will tighten. Expectations will rise. But the fundamentals will stay: property is a people business, and the best outcomes come from honesty, consistency, and care. I am always happy to connect with fellow property professionals. If you would like to get in touch, you can reach me at jess@jhwood.homes or via LinkedIn.