Flexible and Affordable: Renting Emerges as the Top Housing Choice for UK Adults

Renting offers greater flexibility and mobility

One of the biggest benefits of renting is the flexibility it provides. For many people, owning a home simply isn’t a practical option. This can be due to a transient job market or a desire to live in different areas; whatever the reason, renters have the freedom to move whenever they like without having to sell a property or break a mortgage contract. As a result, they have greater flexibility and mobility.

According to a study by the Resolution Foundation, nearly 60% of young people in the UK now rent their homes, and many do so because of the flexibility it provides. By renting, they can move freely from one location to another as their careers and personal lives change, without having to worry about the cost or complexity of buying and selling property.

Renting can be more cost-effective

Another key benefit of renting is that it can be more cost-effective than owning a house – this is especially true when you consider the additional costs associated with homeownership (including property taxes, maintenance and repairs and insurance). According to a report by the National Housing Federation, the average UK homeowner spends around £300/month on their property, including mortgage payments, utilities, and other associated costs. By contrast, the average renter spends around £250 per month on their home, definitely making renting a more affordable option for many people.

A word about pest control in rented homes

One issue that can arise when renting a home is the potential for pest infestations. Whether it’s mice, ants, or bedbugs, pests can be a major problem for renters, causing damage to property and threatening health and well-being. 

To avoid pest infestations, it’s important to take steps to prevent pests from entering your home in the first place. This might include sealing cracks and crevices, keeping food stored in airtight containers, and cleaning up food spills immediately. If you do experience a pest infestation, it’s important to contact a professional pest control service as soon as possible to have the pest problem dealt with effectively and safely. 

Whether you’re a young professional looking for a flexible housing solution or simply want to reduce your carbon footprint as much as you can, renting can be a smart choice. So if you’re looking for a new place to call home, consider the many benefits of renting – it might just be the right choice for you.