Student Lettings in 2025: How Landlords Can Survive & Thrive with Savannah Courtenay
In this episode of Rethinking Rentals, we take a deep dive into the UK’s student lettings sector—a market undergoing significant change. Gurman is joined by Savannah Courtenay from Kurb Lettings, who shares her insights from the frontline in Nottingham, where a combination of market forces and changing student behaviour is reshaping how properties are let.
They explore the growing influence of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), the impact of delayed decision-making from students, and what landlords need to do to stay competitive.
Podcast Overview
What’s Really Happening in the Student Market
Student properties that previously let months in advance are sitting vacant well into the new academic year. Despite a growing student population, many are delaying their housing decisions, becoming more selective, and showing greater price sensitivity.
The Rise (and Risk) of PBSA
With thousands of new PBSA units entering cities like Nottingham, the student experience has changed. Facilities such as gyms, cinema rooms and concierge services have raised the bar. Traditional HMOs need to modernise or reposition to avoid being left behind.
How Landlords Need to Adapt
Many landlords are not keeping pace. Properties that look tired or are poorly marketed struggle to compete. Savannah advises landlords to invest in modern, neutral décor, include bills in the rent, and respond quickly to enquiries—preferably via WhatsApp rather than email. Targeting young professionals as an alternative to student tenants is also becoming a viable option.
Marketing for the Modern Student
Static listings are no longer enough. Virtual tours, video content and fast, personable communication are now essential tools in the agent’s toolkit. Savannah shares how a proactive approach—even speaking to students in the street—has proved more effective than waiting for enquiries.
Renters Reform and the Future of Student Lettings
The upcoming Renters Reform Bill is contributing to landlord hesitation, but Savannah encourages proactive adaptation. Offering a better tenant experience and exploring other tenant demographics can help safeguard against future uncertainty.
