Purpose-Driven Property Management: The Story Behind My Landlord Cares
In this episode of the Rethinking Rentals podcast, powered by Reposit, we speak with Mahara Haque, Director of My Landlord Cares. This unique conversation explores the role of social responsibility in property management and how MLC is challenging traditional letting norms with a people-first approach.
Podcast Overview
About Our Guest
Mahara Haque founded My Landlord Cares in 2020 after struggling to find a letting agent that aligned with her values rooted in social housing and community development. With a mission to place people at the heart of property management, My Landlord Cares offers a compassionate yet commercially sound alternative for landlords who want to do things differently.
Socially Responsible Lettings
My Landlord Cares was built on the principle that letting a property shouldn’t come at the expense of tenant wellbeing. Mahara explains how small, supportive actions—such as helping tenants furnish their homes or apply for benefits—can have a significant impact on tenancy longevity and property condition. Treating tenants with dignity, she argues, leads to happier tenants, fewer voids, and ultimately, better outcomes for landlords.
Ethical Business, Real Challenges
Mahara shares the personal and professional hurdles of launching My Landlord Cares, from shifting her mindset as a new business owner to navigating the practicalities of growth while staying true to her values. Funded by angel investors who support its social mission, My Landlord Cares is proving that profitability and purpose can go hand in hand.
The Role of PropTech
While technology plays a vital role in streamlining operations—such as managing rent reminders or automating utility notifications—Mahara believes it should never replace human interaction. My Landlord Cares is deliberate in its use of technology to ensure it doesn’t alienate vulnerable or digitally excluded tenants. For Mahara, tech should enhance service, not distance people.
What Makes My Landlord Cares Different
The agency’s ethos and hands-on approach stand out in a sector often focused purely on margins. Landlords who partner with My Landlord Cares are often those who feel neglected by larger, impersonal agents and are looking for a responsive, ethical service provider. By maintaining close relationships and clear communication, My Landlord Cares delivers trust and transparency on both sides of the tenancy.
Looking Ahead
With investment and a growing team, My Landlord Cares is expanding its footprint while staying true to its founding principles. Mahara speaks about the importance of working with aligned partners like Reposit and RentGuarantor, helping tenants access housing who may otherwise be excluded due to affordability or credit issues.
