The Chelmsford rental market has long been a favourite for landlords thanks to strong tenant demand, excellent transport links and steady house price growth. But in a time of rising mortgage rates and tighter profit margins, even long-standing investors are feeling the pinch.
What many landlords don’t realise is that the answer to improving profits might already be sitting in their portfolio. A simple property review could unlock higher rental yields, reduce voids, and help shape a smarter investment strategy going forward.
John Frost, Director at Martin & Co Chelmsford, explains why reviewing your rental portfolio isn’t just smart — it’s essential.
Why rental yields matter more than ever
In 2025, making your money work harder is top priority. With average mortgage interest rates hovering around 5.5% and inflation still impacting everyday costs, landlords must find ways to squeeze more value out of their investments.
Rental yield is one of the most important metrics. It gives a clear picture of how much return a property generates in relation to its value. The higher your yield, the better your cashflow, and the more cushion you have for unexpected expenses or rate rises.
Chelmsford rental yield snapshot:
- Average gross rental yield in Chelmsford: 4.2% (Zoopla, Q2 2025)
- Average property value: £395,000
- Average monthly rent: £1,395
While this paints a positive picture, many landlords are unknowingly earning less. If your rents haven’t increased in the last few years, or your mortgage costs have risen, your real return may be below average.
What counts as a good rental yield in Chelmsford?
There’s no universal figure for a “good” yield, as it depends on your strategy and property type. For example:
- 1-bed flats in the city centre typically yield 4% to 5%
- 3-bed houses in family-friendly areas like Springfield may achieve 3.5% to 4.5%
What matters is how your yield compares to the local market and whether it meets your financial goals.
Why most landlords skip property reviews (and lose out)
It’s easy to fall into a routine. You find a good tenant, the rent comes in, and everything ticks along. But without regular check-ins, properties can quietly underperform.
A full property review shines a light on:
- Rental income vs market value — Are you charging below-market rents?
- Void periods and arrears — Are you missing income from slow turnarounds or missed payments?
- Condition and presentation — Could your property achieve more with a light refurbishment?
- Running costs — Is your mortgage rate still competitive? Are you overspending on repairs?
- Compliance — Are you up to date with EPC regulations and safety checks?
These small issues, left unchecked, can cost thousands every year.
Local knowledge makes a big difference
Chelmsford’s property market is hyper-local. Yields can vary dramatically street-by-street, depending on proximity to schools, stations or employer hubs like Broomfield Hospital or Anglia Ruskin University.
At Martin & Co Chelmsford, we have access to:
- Current rental data from Rightmove, Zoopla and our managed portfolio
- Historical rental performance by postcode
- Up-to-the-minute demand trends based on tenant enquiries and viewings
This means we can tell you exactly how your property compares and where improvements can be made.
The biggest yield killers (and how to fix them)
Here are some of the most common issues we uncover in a property review — and how landlords can fix them:
- Under-rented properties
Many landlords avoid rent increases for fear of upsetting tenants. But if rents haven’t been reviewed in 3+ years, you could be 10-15% below market rates.
Fix: We can advise on legal and fair rent reviews using Section 13 notices or tenancy renewals.
- Tired interiors
Dated carpets, worn kitchens or bland decor can all limit what tenants are willing to pay.
Fix: Simple upgrades — such as repainting, new flooring, or energy-efficient lighting — can justify higher rents and attract better tenants.
- Poor EPC ratings
With minimum energy efficiency standards tightening, a low EPC can limit your options and deter eco-conscious renters.
Fix: Upgrading insulation or switching to LED bulbs can boost your rating and cut tenant bills.
- Long void periods
Empty weeks between tenancies are lost income.
Fix: Better marketing, professional photography and flexible viewing times reduce voids significantly. Our average time-to-let is under 14 days.
- Uncompetitive mortgage terms
Many landlords are still on variable or standard rate mortgages.
Fix: We work with mortgage brokers who specialise in portfolio landlords and can help you remortgage for better cashflow.
Staying compliant in a changing legal landscape
Alongside financial performance, compliance is fast becoming one of the most critical parts of portfolio management. The upcoming Renters Rights Bill is set to reshape the private rental sector, with major implications for landlords.
Key proposed changes include:
- Abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions
- Stronger grounds for possession under Section 8
- New Decent Homes Standard extended to the private sector
- Mandatory landlord redress scheme
- Pets permitted by default (with conditions)
Landlords who aren’t prepared for these changes may face longer voids, legal disputes, or fines.
What a compliance review can identify:
- Is your tenancy documentation up to date and legally compliant?
- Are you properly serving all required notices and safety certificates?
- Will your properties meet the new minimum standards?
- Are you protected if tenants request to keep pets or challenge rent rises?
At Martin & Co Chelmsford, we help landlords stay on the right side of the law. During your property review, we’ll highlight any upcoming risks and guide you on the steps to stay compliant under the new rules.
In a shifting legal environment, having expert advice on your side isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
Professional reviews vs DIY: Why expert insight pays off
Online calculators are useful, but they can’t replace local market knowledge or insight into real tenant behaviour.
A professional property review through Martin & Co includes:
- Property-specific rental analysis
- Void and arrears audit
- EPC review with upgrade recommendations
- Mortgage and finance referral (if needed)
- Compliance and licensing check
- Bespoke yield optimisation strategy
We combine real-time lettings data, years of landlord experience, and local Chelmsford expertise to help you make confident decisions.
What should landlords do next?
Whether you own one property or a portfolio of ten, the first step to boosting yield is understanding where you stand.
Book a free portfolio review with our Chelmsford lettings team and we’ll provide a full breakdown of your rental performance, along with clear advice on where and how to improve it.
Many landlords discover hidden value in their existing properties — without needing to buy more.
Ready to get started?
Book your free property review with Martin & Co Chelmsford now.
Because a small review today could mean a big return tomorrow.
