Passion for property
How three Richmond residents are funding their lives and passions with property
Property is considered one of the most worthwhile investments. Still, whether you own a single rental home or have ambitions of growing a portfolio, it can be difficult to know where to start and time-consuming to manage. Read how three Richmond residents turned to local experts, Smarter Rent, to help guide them through the process and get on the path to property rental success.
MELINDA
Melinda had spent years living in and lovingly renovating her Richmond flat. However, when considering retiring in the Swiss Alps, she was reluctant to sell the property she had poured so much time and attention into.
“I had been working with a lettings company for a few years, but after various Covid lockdowns, I found that I wanted to return to London more spontaneously and regularly.”
Discussing her desire for flexibility with her agent, Melinda discovered they couldn’t meet her changing needs.
“Not only were they proposing a 25% charge on any rental income, but they also had a range of obligatory expenses that added to between £500-£600 for every letting!”
In search of a new solution, Melinda found Smarter Rent online. Specialising in providing fully managed, flexible rentals, Smarter Rent took on her stunning central-Richmond apartment and, within weeks, had fully vetted, high-quality renters paying premium rates. All Melinda needed to lock her personal belongings away and ‘book’ into the property when she planned to return to the UK.
“I completely trust Smarter Rent to make the right decisions on my behalf. I earn thousands every month in passive income, financing my retirement dreams. I then have my beautiful Richmond bolthole that I can return to at the drop of a hat, but that forms part of my investment portfolio.”
KEN
A Seattle native, Ken, moved to Richmond in the mid-90s and bought his home in an exclusive riverside estate.
“The prices were low, so we bought, leasing the house until we returned in 2007. During this period, another of the properties on the estate overlooking the river came up for sale,” explains Ken.
His wife talked him into purchasing their slice of the riverside to rent it out. Ken handed it over to Adrian and the Smarter Rent team after some light refurbishments, including bathroom updates, installing underfloor heating, and adding some outdoor furniture. Using their full management service, Ken became a hands-off landlord and let Smarter Rent take care of bookings.
“I have been very fortunate. We have had excellent tenants, including several movie people. Smarter Rent is astute in its knowledge of the different platforms and has creative ways of finding renters.”
“I feel protected by my arrangement with Smarter Rent – even if the real estate market crashed tomorrow. I could make my money back on the property.”
GUY AND KATE
Owning several buy-to-lets, Guy and Kate were well-versed property owners. Looking to grow their portfolio outside of London, which had become too expensive, the retired Teddington couple turned to Smarter Rent to help them find an investment property that could fund help their retirement but not take up their precious time.
“We were interested in adding more properties to our portfolio but were well aware of the hassle. We wanted to use Smarter Rent to try to avoid the headaches we know are inevitable.”
Smarter Rent used data to help Guy and Kate find and purchase their new investment property. With a solid understanding of what renters will pay for, Smarter Rent took full control of decorating, furnishing, and preparing it for the market. The property was styled, professional photos were taken, all utilities were set up, and then advertised on an extensive range of platforms for maximum visibility - all in weeks.
“Property has always been my best investment – better than stocks or corporate bonds. I have always connected emotionally with my other properties as they are near my home, and I manage them myself. It seemed the perfect time to try to be detached. I have learned you must treat an investment property with no emotion, and Smarter Rent made that possible and easy.”
From part-time landlords to portfolio investors, Smarter Rent has helped over 250 people unlock possibilities through property - if you are looking for a local, trusted advisor, reach out to us today and let’s work together.
Smarter RENT 020 7550 9396
