Property Lettings in Harrow and Southgate: A Guide for Landlords and Tenants

 
18/01/2025

Message from the Managing Director


As someone who grew up in Harrow, I have always had a strong connection to this part of London. I went to school in Harrow and spent many years working at the Grim’s Dyke Hotel, where I developed a deep appreciation for the local community. During this time, I attended business networking meetings at least three times a week, constantly meeting new people and making valuable connections.

In the back of my mind, I always had a dream—to run my own business. I would often look around the room at these networking events and think about how wonderful it would be to build something of my own, to work with the people I had formed genuine connections with, and to create a business where trust, knowledge, and relationships were at the heart of everything. Those early years of networking were more than just meetings; they were the foundation of the professional network I have today. Many of the contacts and friendships I built then have become long-term clients, particularly in Harrow and Southgate.

I also spent a significant amount of time working at Hartsbourne Golf Club in Bushey, where I met many people who owned property and rented them out. It was clear that providing good service to tenants was essential. I kept meeting landlords and thought, I need to be a landlord myself. The first property I found tenants for was a tough learning experience—I quickly realised I didn’t know enough about the industry. The tenants didn’t pay their rent, and the agency I used wasn’t very good. It hurt. I decided then and there that I would learn everything I could about the lettings business to ensure that other landlords didn’t get burned the way I did—by a bad estate agency and unreliable tenants. That determination shaped my approach to property lettings, and now, I take pride in offering landlords a service that ensures their properties are managed efficiently and effectively.

Ten years ago, I moved to Southgate and have been raising my family here ever since. I’ve found that many people from Harrow tend to hesitate when it comes to passing The Orange Tree pub on Totteridge Lane, but once you do, it's like stepping into a new world. Southgate has provided a fresh perspective, a fantastic community, and a growing network of landlords and property investors looking to make the most of this vibrant area.

With that foundation, I have grown my business to specialise in lettings, particularly in the areas I know best—Harrow and Southgate. These are thriving rental markets with high demand, strong yields, and fantastic tenant opportunities. Below, I will share my insights on why these areas are excellent choices for landlords and how you can maximise your rental investments.

 


Why Harrow and Southgate Are at the Heart of My Business

Why Let in Harrow?

Harrow has long been a sought-after location for tenants, and for good reason. It offers a unique mix of suburban charm with easy access to Central London, making it ideal for professionals, families, and students alike.

1. Excellent Transport Links

Harrow benefits from fantastic transport connections. Harrow-on-the-Hill, Harrow & Wealdstone, and multiple Underground and Overground stations make commuting straightforward. The Metropolitan Line ensures quick access to Baker Street, and the Overground services link well to the wider London network.

2. Outstanding Schools

Education is a major draw for renters in Harrow. Top-rated schools, including Harrow School, Nower Hill High School, and Whitmore High, make this an attractive location for families looking to settle down.

3. Diverse Property Market

Harrow offers a wide variety of properties, from modern apartments in the town centre to larger family homes in areas like Pinner and Stanmore. This range means there is always strong demand, whether for single professionals or growing families.

4. Strong Rental Yields

With a consistent demand for rental properties, landlords can expect good yields. On average, rental prices in Harrow are:

  • One-bedroom flats: £1,300 - £1,600 per month

  • Two-bedroom properties: £1,700 - £2,200 per month

  • Three-bedroom houses: £2,300 - £3,000 per month

What Landlords Need to Consider in Harrow

Letting in Harrow comes with responsibilities. Landlords must ensure their property meets legal requirements, including:

  • Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above

  • Gas and electrical safety checks

  • Deposit protection in a government-backed scheme

  • Right to Rent checks for tenants

Why Southgate is a Fantastic Lettings Area

Much like Harrow, Southgate is another prime rental location, drawing in tenants for its excellent connectivity, great schools, and high quality of life.

1. Prime Location and Transport Links

Southgate is well-connected via the Piccadilly Line, offering direct access to Central London. It’s a perfect spot for professionals who need an easy commute but prefer a quieter suburban lifestyle.

2. Strong Family Appeal

Many families choose Southgate because of its excellent schools, including Walker Primary School and Ashmole Academy. Properties in school catchment areas are always in high demand.

3. Green Spaces and Amenities

Southgate offers a great mix of urban convenience and green spaces. Grovelands Park and Trent Park provide a wonderful escape from city life, making Southgate particularly appealing to renters who appreciate outdoor spaces.

4. Rental Market Trends in Southgate

Much like Harrow, Southgate maintains steady rental demand. Average rental prices include:

  • One-bedroom flats: £1,400 - £1,700 per month

  • Two-bedroom flats/houses: £1,800 - £2,400 per month

  • Three-bedroom houses: £2,500 - £3,500 per month

  • Larger family homes: £3,500+ per month

Should Landlords Self-Manage or Use a Letting Agent?

Some landlords prefer to manage their properties themselves, while others opt for a professional lettings agency.

Self-Managing: ✔ No agent fees ✔ Direct tenant relationship ✔ More control over the property ✘ Time-consuming ✘ Requires legal and regulatory knowledge ✘ Handling repairs and disputes alone

Using a Letting Agent: ✔ Professional tenant vetting ✔ Rent collection and property maintenance ✔ Ensures compliance with legal requirements ✘ Fees typically range from 8-15% of the monthly rent ✘ Less direct involvement in tenant management

Final Thoughts

Both Harrow and Southgate remain strong, stable rental markets with excellent tenant demand. Whether you are an experienced landlord or considering letting out a property for the first time, understanding these areas is key to maximising your rental returns. Having spent years building relationships in these communities, I take pride in working with landlords to ensure they achieve the best results with their lettings.

If you’re considering letting a property in Harrow or Southgate, having expert guidance can make all the difference. Let’s talk about how to make the most of your rental investment in these thriving areas.

Written by Edward Gray, Managing Director, Space Acquisitions Limited

 
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