Online letting agency Hello Neighbour is stepping up its challenge to high-street rivals with an upgraded DIY platform that allows landlords to advertise properties and find tenants for just £29.
The London-based company has launched version 2.2 of its self-service platform, adding tools for tenant screening, arranging viewings and managing applications.
The move comes as landlords face tougher obligations under the Renters’ Rights Act, which abolished Section 21 evictions in May.
Hello Neighbour is targeting landlords willing to manage the letting process themselves rather than pay for a traditional agency service.
Its entry-level package costs £29, while a £59 option includes additional tenancy setup services.
Taking on traditional letting agents
The latest update gives landlords greater control over viewings and tenant applications.
Landlords can now arrange appointments without setting viewing availability in advance. Applicants request morning or afternoon slots, with landlords confirming times through the platform.
The system also allows landlords to invite prospective tenants who find their properties through referrals, local advertising or other channels.
Applicants complete pre-qualification questions covering employment, income, household circumstances and pets.
Hello Neighbour says the platform automatically rejects applicants who fail its initial referencing criteria.
The update also introduces automated viewing reminders, invitations to submit offers and improved messaging.
Renters’ Rights reforms create opportunity
Hello Neighbour says the abolition of Section 21 has increased the importance of tenant selection and keeping accurate records.
The platform brings enquiries, messages, viewing requests and offers into one system.
The company says this should help landlords follow consistent procedures when assessing applicants.
Richard Jenkins, chief executive of Hello Neighbour, said: “Renters’ Rights has changed the job of letting a property. Landlords can no longer rely on section 21 as a backstop, so the decisions made before a tenancy starts matter more than ever.
“Version 2.2 came straight from our landlords. They told us they wanted to stay in charge of how they meet applicants, see more about who they are dealing with and move quickly when the right person comes along. That is what this release does.”
DIY lettings from £29
Founded in 2018, Hello Neighbour operates a digital-first lettings model designed to reduce landlords’ reliance on conventional agents.
Its £29 package covers property advertising and tenant finding, while the £59 option includes additional support with tenancy setup.
The latest platform upgrade is available to existing DIY customers at no extra cost.
Phil Shelley, the company’s non-executive chairman, said: “Self-managing landlords are carrying more regulatory responsibility than at any point in a generation. Our job is to give them professional-grade tools at a price that makes sense.”
The expansion adds to competition facing traditional letting agents, particularly among landlords who prioritise lower fees over a fully managed service.
However, the DIY approach leaves landlords responsible for much of the work normally handled by an agent, alongside their legal and regulatory obligations.
