Winning More Landlords: Expert Strategies with Christopher Watkin
In this episode of the Rethinking Rentals podcast we dive into innovative strategies for letting agents focused on securing more landlords and excelling in the industry by 2025. Our guest, Christopher Watkin, brings his extensive experience as a consultant specialising in the UK property market, offering actionable insights for navigating its complexities. You can follow Christopher here on LinkedIn.
Podcast Overview
About Chris Watkin
Chris Watkin is known for his expert advice and strategic guidance in the property sector. With years of experience advising letting agents on how to enhance their visibility and value to landlords, Chris’s approach is rooted in understanding market trends and leveraging them to benefit his clients. His consultancy work focuses on equipping agents with the tools and knowledge necessary to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Exploring Current Market Trends and Challenges
The discussion begins with Chris highlighting a significant shift in the market, notably the impact of platforms like OpenRent which are transforming how landlords and tenants interact. He outlines how these platforms have successfully captured a substantial market share by appealing to landlords with a promise of reduced costs and streamlined services, posing a substantial challenge to traditional agents.
Effective Strategies for Letting Agents
Chris shares valuable strategies for letting agents to demonstrate their unique value propositions effectively. He advises on the importance of building stronger, more personal relationships with landlords, understanding their specific needs and investment objectives, and providing customised solutions that demonstrate the agent’s intrinsic value beyond what tech platforms offer.
Leveraging Technology to Enhance Service Delivery
Further into the conversation, Chris and Gurman discuss the role of proptech in modernising the operations of letting agents. Chris argues that while technology is integral for improving operational efficiency, it should complement rather than replace the human element essential in property management. He suggests practical ways technology can automate routine tasks, allowing agents to focus on strategic relationship management and personalised service delivery.
Opportunities for Letting Agents in 2025
Looking towards 2025, Chris explores how letting agents can adapt to the evolving landscape by increasing their management fees without losing competitiveness. He reinforces the necessity of clearly communicating the added value these fees represent, ensuring landlords understand the benefits of comprehensive service packages that address both routine management and unexpected challenges efficiently.
