Making an offer on a rental property

Once you’ve found a property you like, the next step is to make an offer to rent it. This is your chance to confirm the rent you’re prepared to pay and share any details that could help the landlord decide whether to accept.

This guide explains how making an offer works, what landlords can and can’t consider, and how to give yourself the best chance of success. It’s best to make the offer in writing, so there’s a paper trail.

How do I make an offer?

Offers are usually made through the letting agent, although some landlords manage this directly.

If you make an offer through an agent, they are required to pass it on to the landlord for consideration. Even if you offer the advertised rent, the landlord is not obliged to accept, but paying the asking price often improves your chances.

Your offer doesn’t need to be complicated. Clear, honest information helps everyone move forward more quickly.

What should I include in my offer?

Along with confirming the rent, you may be asked for:

• Your proposed move‑in date
• Basic information needed for referencing

Keeping your offer straightforward and realistic can make it easier for a landlord to say yes.

Can I offer more than the advertised rent?

No. From 1 May 2026, landlords and letting agents cannot ask for, encourage or accept offers above the advertised rent.

This means:

• No bidding wars
• No pressure to offer more than the price shown
• The advertised rent must be a single, fixed amount

If someone offers more than the advertised rent, the landlord or agent is not allowed to accept it.

What else can make an offer attractive?

Price is important, but it’s not the only thing landlords consider. Other factors can help your offer stand out, such as:

• Being able to move in close to the available date
• Responding quickly and keeping communication clear

These details can help reduce uncertainty for the landlord and speed up the decision.

Be open and honest

It’s best to be upfront from the start about things like:

• Pets
• Children
• Anything that could affect the tenancy

Being clear early on helps avoid delays later and can set the tone for a positive landlord‑tenant relationship.

What happens after I make an offer?

If your offer is accepted, the next steps usually include:

• Referencing checks
• Paying a holding deposit to reserve the property
• Reviewing and signing the tenancy agreement

FAQs

• Does making an offer mean the property is mine?

  No. Making an offer doesn’t guarantee the property. The landlord can consider other offers and isn’t obliged to accept, even if you offer the advertised rent.

• Can a landlord choose another renter even if I offer the asking price?

  Yes. While offering the advertised rent often helps, landlords can consider other factors, such as proposed move‑in dates or overall suitability.

• Am I allowed to offer more than the advertised rent?

  No. From 1 May 2026, landlords and letting agents can’t ask for, encourage or accept offers above the advertised rent. This rule is designed to prevent bidding wars and keep the process fair.

• What information will I usually be asked for when making an offer?

  You’ll normally be asked to confirm the rent, your preferred move‑in date and basic details needed for referencing. Keeping this clear and accurate can help speed things up.

• Should I mention pets or children when making an offer?

  Yes. It’s best to be upfront from the start about pets, children or anything else that could affect the tenancy. This helps avoid delays or issues later in the process.

• What happens if my offer is accepted?

  If your offer is accepted, the next steps usually include referencing checks, paying a holding deposit to reserve the property, and reviewing the tenancy agreement.