When letting out a property, one of the biggest decisions landlords face is whether to choose a Fully Managed service or a Let Only service.
At first glance, Let Only may seem like the more profitable option, with fewer fees and more control. But in reality, many landlords find that Fully Managed actually delivers better long-term returns.
Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide.
🏡 What Is Let Only?
A Let Only service typically includes:
- Marketing the property
- Finding a tenant
- Referencing
- Move-in process
After that, the landlord takes over everything.
This means you’re responsible for:
- Rent collection
- Maintenance
- Compliance
- Tenant communication
🛠️ What Is Fully Managed?
A Fully Managed service includes everything in Let Only, plus:
- Rent collection
- Maintenance coordination
- Regular inspections
- Legal compliance
- Handling tenant issues
In short, we handle everything for you.
💰 Rental Income – Where the Difference Is Made
Many landlords focus purely on management fees.
But the real question is:
👉 Who achieves the best overall return?
👉 Who achieves the best overall return?
With Fully Managed, you benefit from:
- Accurate pricing based on market demand
- Regular rent reviews
- Reduced void periods
These factors often generate more income than the fee costs.
⏳ Time vs Cost
Let Only:
- Requires ongoing involvement
- Time spent dealing with tenants and issues.
Fully Managed:
- Frees up your time completely
If you value your time, this alone can outweigh the fee.
⚖️ Compliance & Legal Protection
This is where Fully Managed becomes critical.
With changing legislation in Wales:
- One mistake can delay possession.
- Incorrect paperwork can invalidate notices.
A Fully Managed service ensures:
- Everything is compliant
- Risks are minimised
🔧 Maintenance & Cost Control
Self-managing landlords often:
- Overpay for repairs
- Use reactive maintenance
With Fully Managed:
- Trusted contractors
- Faster response times
- Better cost control
🚫 Dealing With Problems
Let only landlords handle:
- Arrears
- Complaints
- Disputes
Fully Managed landlords:
👉 Don’t deal with any of this
👉 Don’t deal with any of this
This is often the biggest reason landlords switch.
📉 The Common Misconception
Let only looks cheaper.
But when you factor in:
- Time
- Risk
- Missed income
- Stress
Many landlords realise it’s a false economy.
📊 So, Which Makes More Money?
For most landlords:
👉 Fully Managed delivers better long-term returns
👉 Let only works if you’re experienced and hands-on
👉 Fully Managed delivers better long-term returns
👉 Let only works if you’re experienced and hands-on
📞 Thinking of Switching?
If you’re currently:
- Self-managing
- Using a Let Only service
- Or unsure what’s best
👉 Get in touch for a free landlord review and see which option suits your situation best.
