What Tenants Really Want in a Modern HMO

The tenant wish list...

Forget the old clichés of dingy student digs and mismatched furniture. As HMO's have evolved, so have tenants' expectations. Today's HMO renters, especially young professionals and postgraduates, are not just looking for a cheap room, they're searching for a comfortable, convenient, and high-quality living space. For landlords, understanding this shift isn't just about filling a room; it's about attracting the best tenants, and reducing tenant turnover.

So, what's on the modern HMO tenant's wish list?

1. Beyond a bedroom: The rise of the mini-studio

A bedroom isn't just for sleeping anymore. With the rise of remote and hybrid work, many tenants now need their private space to function as a home office, a relaxation zone, and a bedroom rolled into one.

• Spacious doubles: Double beds are now the standard, giving tenants enough room for a desk, seating, and storage. Small, cramped rooms are a thing of the past.
• Smart storage solutions: Since tenants bring their own belongings, savvy landlords provide creative storage options like under-bed drawers and ottoman stools to maximize space.
• Well-lit workspaces: A desk and chair, plus plenty of electrical sockets and USB ports, are essential for tenants who work or study from their rooms.

2. The luxury of privacy: En-suites are gold

Sharing a bathroom can be one of the biggest friction points in a multi-person household. Tenants are increasingly willing to pay a premium for their own private bathroom, and this trend is especially strong among young professionals.

• Premium feature: Offering en-suite bathrooms in as many rooms as possible is a key desire.
• Conflict-free living: A private bathroom eliminates issues over cleanliness and scheduling, making for a happier and more harmonious household.

3. Community and connection: Communal spaces are key

While private space is important, the communal areas are where the sense of community is built. A well-designed kitchen can be the difference between a house full of strangers and a comfortable home.

• A kitchen for all: Ample fridge and freezer space, dedicated cupboards, and a dining table large enough for everyone create a sociable atmosphere.
• Outdoor escape: Access to a garden, balcony, or courtyard is a huge selling point, particularly in urban areas. Landlords can make this space inviting with seating and lighting.
• The digital hub: A strong, reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi connection is non-negotiable. With multiple people streaming, gaming, and working, the network must be robust.

4. Convenience is king: The all-inclusive package

The modern tenant prioritizes simplicity. An all-inclusive bill structure is a major attraction, eliminating arguments over utility costs and simplifying their monthly budget.

• One-stop payment: Including gas, electricity, water, and broadband in the rent streamlines the process and is perceived as great value by tenants.
• No utility wars: By handling all the utility payments, landlords remove a common source of conflict, contributing to a more peaceful household.

5. Homely touches: Making it a home, not a house

High-quality, modern interiors with a thoughtful touch are what set a top-tier HMO apart. First impressions are everything, and tenants are influenced by online photos.

• Cozy decor: Rugs, artwork, throws, and cushions can transform a stark room into a welcoming, comfortable space.
• Consistent standard: Gone are the days when quality depended on the tenant. Today's renters, from students to professionals, expect a high standard of fixtures and décor.

The bar is only going to get higher...

The blueprint for a successful HMO has shifted. It's no longer about cramming as many rooms as possible into a property. Instead, the focus is on creating a high-quality, convenient, and attractive living environment. By investing in these key areas, (spacious rooms, private bathrooms, excellent communal spaces, inclusive billing, and homely touches), landlords can attract and retain the best tenants, ensuring their property remains a profitable and desirable investment for years to come.

At Mudpiper, we design our HMOs for professionals, not students. We know the bar has been raised. And rightly so.

People want a higher standard of shared living. When you meet those expectations, everything improves. Tenants stay longer. They look after the property. And the business runs smoother.

If you’re planning an HMO, don’t just follow the old model. Build for the people who will live there. That’s how you raise the bar, and how you stand out.