Rental demand remains resilient in early 2026, but growth has moderated. For landlords, spring is less about reacting and more about refining strategy.

Over the last few weeks, there has been a growing narrative in the national press suggesting that the housing ladder is becoming increasingly difficult to climb. Much of this centres around the widening gap between smaller and larger homes, with many commentators suggesting that homeowners are becoming “stuck” and unable to move up.

There is a growing shift taking place in the Shepperton property market, and it is not one that can be ignored. While much of the national conversation focuses on house prices and interest rates, a quieter yet more revealing metric is beginning to stand out, how long properties are taking to sell.

April is the final window for landlords in England to prepare for the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act. With the new tenancy regime starting on 1 May 2026, now is the time to review paperwork, processes and whether self-management still feels realistic.