A new kind of home journey 

Buying a home used to be the clear next step once someone had saved a deposit but in 2025, the path to homeownership is looking more flexible. Increasingly, we’re seeing renters who aren’t in a rush to buy. Instead, they’re taking their time, trying different areas, and getting a feel for what works before making a big commitment. 

In short, they’re ‘testing the waters’ and it’s reshaping the way people think about renting. 

Short lets and trial living 

For some, renting isn’t just a necessity it’s a strategy. Short-term lets, flexible tenancy agreements, and furnished rentals are giving people the chance to try a lifestyle before they buy into it. That might mean moving to a new city for work, spending a year in the countryside before deciding on village life, or trialling apartment living before committing to a flat purchase. 

It’s a way of exploring what’s right without the pressure of mortgages or long-term decisions. 

Why renting still appeals 

In 2025, flexibility is king. Many renters are choosing to delay buying not because they can’t, but because they want freedom. Renting can mean: 

• Living in central areas with easy access to work, nightlife or travel 

• Avoiding property maintenance and repair responsibilities 

• The ability to upsize or downsize as life changes 

• Lower upfront costs compared to purchasing 

For landlords and letting agents, this means today’s tenants are looking for homes that offer more than just convenience they want flexibility, quality, and lifestyle compatibility. 

What this means for sellers and landlords 

For sellers, it’s important to understand that not every viewing is a ready buyer but many renters become buyers once they’ve found the right area or property type. Consider making your home as appealing to future buyers as it is to current tenants. Highlight features that offer lifestyle value: garden access, smart storage, home office space, or walkability. 

For landlords, the opportunity lies in catering to the flexible living market. Offering short-term lets or rolling contracts, maintaining high-quality furnishings, and providing bills-included options can make your property especially attractive to professionals, relocators, and ‘try-before-you-buy’ tenants. 

Living intentionally - at every stage 

Whether it’s renting by choice or buying after some reflection, people are approaching their living decisions with more intention. They want to find spaces that suit their lives not just financially, but emotionally and practically too. 

And sometimes, the clearest path to owning a home… is renting one first. Explore flexible living options that fit your lifestyle.  

Speak to us about rentals and short lets today