Let's Talk Lets

From tomorrow (14th May), it becomes a legal requirement for letting agents to screen all new landlords and tenants against the UK sanctions list. In our latest podcast episode, our very own Matt Curtis breaks down exactly what the changes mean, and most importantly, what you need to do to stay compliant. Listen today to make sure you are ready with clear guidance, practical advice, and everything you need to ensure your business is fully prepared.

The Lettings Hub are able to help with our full suite of Know Your Customer checks including Right to Rent checking, AML, PEPs and Sanctions and Enhanced ID and more! With our 360° compliance solution, you can have complete peace of mind when it comes to onboarding tenants and landlords in line with the new regulations.

This week, we’re joined by Jade Maker, Business Development Manager at Bricks & Logic and Head of Wellbeing at Women In Residential Property, for a powerful conversation on neurodiversity at work.

Diagnosed with ADHD 20 years ago, Jade only recently opened up to her employer and has since become a passionate advocate. She shares her journey, insights on supporting neurodiverse teams, and advice for others looking to start the conversation. A must-listen for leaders, HR teams, and anyone building a more inclusive workplace.

This week, we’re joined by the brilliant Danni Nash from Property Academy. Danni sat down with Heidi to talk all things public speaking – following her standout talk at Women in Estate Agency back in March.

In this episode, Danni shares:

What motivated her to say yes to the stage, how she prepared for her talk, the people who supported her along the way and her advice for anyone – woman or man – holding back from taking the plunge! 

If you’ve ever hesitated before raising your hand to speak, this one’s for you.

LET'S TALK LETS | RETURNS FOR SEASON 6!

This week, we're thrilled to welcome back Ryan Heaven for a deep dive into the evolving world of guarantors and what the Renters' Rights Bill means for tenants, landlords, and letting agents alike.

With the removal of Rent in Advance and Section 21, and the end of fixed-term tenancies, the role of guarantors is about to change significantly. More landlords are likely to require a guarantor, and on the other side of the coin, guarantors could find themselves liable indefinitely.

Heidi and Ryan unpack:

1 | Why guarantors will matter more than ever

2 | The risks and responsibilities for all parties

3 | Alternative solutions letting agents should consider

(Yes, there's a shameless plug for our new Professional Guarantor service—but when it’s a win-win-win for landlords, tenants, and agents, we’re more than happy to shout about it!)

That’s a wrap on Season 5 of Let's Talk Lets!

As tradition goes, we’ve pulled together all the best bits and standout stories from this season – and wow, Season 5 did not disappoint!

If you’ve been following along, you’ll know we always end each episode by asking our guests for a funny or memorable story from their career... and this season brought some absolute gems. From unusual property viewings, to sleep talking that wouldn’t be out of place in the House of Commons, and even an awkward moment that led to a very happy marriage – we’ve got it all.

Season 6 will be landing after the Easter break, and we cannot wait to reveal the incredible line-up of guests we’ve got in store.

A huge thank you to everyone who tuned in, joined us, or shared their stories – Season 5 has been amazing because of you. ❤️

This week on Let’s Talk Lets, we’re joined by Lisa Isaacs, property-focused writer & content specialist, a leading expert. With an impressive portfolio, Lisa has 28 years experience writing for The Negotiator and Moving Magazine, and was also editor of What House?, Your New Home, and Mortgage Matters. Alongside this, she’s written a book, and played a key role in the industry having been a judge for both the Letting Agency of the Year Awards and What House? awards.

In today's fast-paced digital world, the way renters find their next home is evolving. Gone are the days of newspaper ads and endless Rightmove scrolling—your audience might be flicking through TikTok or Instagram instead! But creating engaging content that captures attention (and converts) can feel overwhelming.

That’s where Lisa comes in! She’s sharing her top tips for crafting compelling property content that stands out in a crowded digital landscape. Whether you're new to social media marketing or looking to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights for you to implement today! 

We’re thrilled to announce the next episode in our Renters’ Rights Ready Series, featuring a very special guest—Patricia Ogunfeibo!

Patricia is a property developer, former solicitor, landlord coach, and the author of the must-read book, Be Prepared: Renters’ Rights & Residential Landlords in England. With her deep legal and landlord expertise, she’ll be sharing insights on the Renters’ Reform Bill (RRB) and what it means for landlords and tenants alike.

Key topics we covered:
The major enforcement powers being handed to local authorities

Conserns that local councils aren’t resourced, trained, or qualified to fairly apply the new sanctions, with examples of her own experiences 

Top tips for anyone who would like to become a property developer

How Patricia started in the property industry, and what led her to write her own book on the Renters' Rights Bill

In this Renters’ Rights Special, Heidi Shackell, CEO of The Lettings Hub, is joined by Ben Beadle and James Kent from the NRLA to break down the key issues surrounding the Renters’ Rights Bill and what it means for landlords, letting agents, and tenants.

They discuss the abolition of Section 21 and how this could lead to court delays and higher costs for landlords trying to regain possession of their properties. With the end of fixed-term tenancies, they explore how this will shift what landlords look for in potential tenants and the long-term impact on tenancy agreements.

Another key focus is the ban on Rent in Advance, highlighting how this change could disadvantage certain tenants, particularly those who rely on upfront payments to secure a home in a competitive market.

Ben and James also share insights into the NRLA’s ongoing work to support landlords, their advocacy efforts, and their predictions on the evolving rental landscape as the Bill progresses.

We’re thrilled to have Amy Shields, [Job Title] at Smart Compliance and a committee member of Women in Estate Agency, join us for a jam-packed episode! ️✨

With the Women in Estate Agency Conference happening tomorrow, Amy and CEO of The Lettings Hub, Heidi Shackell, dive into everything you need to know:

✅ The incredible speaker lineup ️

✅ What’s new and different this year

✅ What to expect if it’s your first time attending

It’s the perfect listen on your way home tonight or during your commute to the conference tomorrow!

But that’s not all—Amy also breaks down the AML changes coming this year and what letting agents need to do to stay compliant. A must-hear for anyone in the industry!

Our Renters' Rights Ready series continues!

This time, Heidi Shackell, CEO of The Lettings Hub, sits down with Ryan Heaven, Consultant Solicitor at Woodstock Legal Services—our trusted legal partners—to break down the possession process from start to finish. Ryan shares expert insights on everything from preparing before serving notice to when to lodge a CCJ after possession has been gained.

They also cover:

✅ The current eviction process and what could change with the Renters' Rights Bill

✅ Court delays and what they mean for landlords and agents

✅ The rising cost of regaining possession—and how to prepare