More than half of rental homes available for immediate move in

More than half of all rental properties across Great Britain are available for immediate move in, research reveals.

The findings from Benham and Reeves show that tenants have a good chance of securing a home before Christmas.

The estate and letting agent examined nearly 125,000 active listings across the country and found that 63,922 of them are classed as immediate rentals.

That puts 51.3% of the market in the category where tenants can move without delay, a trend that is helping those trying to settle before the year ends.

Busy time of year

Marc von Grundherr, director of Benham and Reeves, said: “This is traditionally one of the busiest times of the year for the rental market.

“Many tenants look to get their affairs in order ahead of the new year, whether they are relocating for work, returning from overseas or simply wanting a fresh start in January.

“Despite the legislative upheavals of recent weeks, including the continued fallout from the Renters’ Rights Act, stock levels remain strong and there is still a healthy volume of homes that can facilitate an instant move.”

He added: “For tenants hoping to secure a property before Christmas, there is plenty of choice across much of the country, and those who are organised and proactive will find the market is still moving at pace.”

Where rented homes are

Scotland stands out for its high share of instantly available homes, with 64.5% of advertised properties offering quick access.

The East of England follows on 60.9%.

London sits in third place, where 53.4% of rental stock can be taken up at short notice.

But availability is far more limited elsewhere and Yorkshire and the Humber has just 44.9% of listings ready straight away.

Wales and the North East also fall short of the halfway mark at 46.4% and 46.7%.