For many landlords, one of the biggest questions before marketing a property is whether to let it furnished, part-furnished, or unfurnished. The decision can influence how quickly your property is rented, the type of tenant you attract, and even the rental income you achieve. At Pride & Property Group, we work closely with landlords across London and Essex to help them weigh up the options, as what works best in one area or property type may not be the right approach in another.

Furnished, Part-Furnished, or Unfurnished – What’s the Difference?

A furnished property usually comes ready with the essentials: beds, wardrobes, sofas, dining sets, and often white goods too. This can be particularly appealing to tenants who want the convenience of moving in with just their suitcase. A part-furnished property strikes a middle ground, offering key pieces such as wardrobes or a sofa, while still leaving space for tenants to bring some of their own items. Finally, an unfurnished property tends to provide only the basics, such as white goods and window dressings, giving tenants complete freedom to furnish as they choose.

The Case for Furnished Lettings

Furnished homes often appeal to tenants looking for a short-term, flexible arrangement – such as professionals relocating for work, corporate tenants, or international renters. These tenants typically appreciate a home that’s ready to move into, which can mean faster lets and, in some cases, a slightly higher rental income. The trade-off for landlords, however, is the initial outlay to buy suitable furniture and the ongoing responsibility for repairs, replacements, and wear and tear.

Why Some Landlords Choose Unfurnished

On the other hand, unfurnished homes are often a better fit for long-term renters, particularly families or established professionals. These tenants usually prefer to bring their own furniture, making the property feel more like home. From a landlord’s perspective, this approach reduces costs and maintenance obligations, since there’s no need to repair or replace furniture between tenancies. The drawback is that in certain areas – particularly those with more transient rental markets – an unfurnished home might take longer to let.

Finding a Middle Ground

For landlords who aren’t sure which way to go, offering a part-furnished property can be a practical compromise. Providing white goods, wardrobes, and perhaps a sofa covers the essentials while still giving tenants flexibility. This option can widen appeal, reduce costs compared with a fully furnished let, and limit the amount of furniture that needs to be maintained.

London vs Essex – Market Insights

Location plays a big role in this decision. In London, furnished apartments remain especially popular among professionals and international tenants who prioritise ease and flexibility. In Essex, however, we often find that families and long-term renters are more inclined towards unfurnished homes, as they want to put down roots and make the property truly their own.

Our Advice to Landlords

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the furnished versus unfurnished debate. It depends on your property type, your target market, and your long-term goals as a landlord. A sleek one-bedroom apartment in Docklands may achieve a faster let if fully furnished, whereas a three-bedroom family home in Essex might attract a longer-term tenant if left unfurnished. At Pride & Property Group, we always recommend tailoring your approach to your property and the local market — and we’re here to advise landlords on the right option to maximise both return and tenant satisfaction.