If you’re listing your space as an HMO property (otherwise known as a house in multiple occupation), you know you must meet some basic requirements for safety and livability.
Many landlords stick to these bare minimums, but this can result in lost income and higher tenant turnover.
Going the extra mile to make your HMO competitive will allow you to raise rent prices and attract higher-quality tenants. Remember, happy tenants are more likely to stay longer and treat the property with respect.
The HMO design tips below will raise the value of your flatshare without emptying your pockets.
These tips are based on current tenant trends—they reflect what people are currently willing to pay for in an HMO property.
Provide High-Speed Internet in Every Room
Reliable, fast Wi-Fi is absolutely essential to flatshare occupants, as they tend to be students and workers who rely on the internet constantly.
Poor internet can lead to frustration and complaints.
The UK’s National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) found that internet quality is a top consideration for HMO tenants, and they are willing to pay a premium for high speeds and reliability.
Invest in a mesh Wi-Fi system to ensure a strong signal throughout the home and consider providing Ethernet ports in each bedroom for added stability.
Create Smart, Functional Kitchens
A recent study found that UK residents aged 18 to 30 (the main HMO demographic) are going out less than they used to.
As a result, they place greater value on functional and social spaces within the home, with the kitchen often serving as the main hub for both.
In a recent tenant satisfaction survey, “new kitchens” ranked among the top features tenants wanted landlords to invest in.
Tenants in HMOs want durable, functional kitchen layouts that prevent bottlenecks and conflict. This means providing larger or duplicate appliances (a large fridge, two kettles, etc.) and creating clear zones for cooking and storage.
Invest in easy-to-clean materials, plenty of cupboard space and enough seating so that communal meals are comfortable.
Prioritise Private Bathrooms
One of the few tenant priorities that ranked higher than kitchens in surveys was bathrooms.
As the age of flatshare seekers rises, older tenants are willing to pay considerably more for the privacy of an en suite bathroom. This has become a top tenant demand in recent years.
Many landlords can’t simply add bathrooms to existing rooms (at least without major renovations). However, you may want to consider reducing the number of tenants to offer private facilities to a few.
A 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom flatshare may be more profitable when rented to two higher-income tenants, who would each receive a private bathroom and office.
If offering private or en-suite bathrooms isn’t possible, adding an extra shower room or toilet can significantly boost your property’s value. Consider converting underused spaces like large storage closets or laundry areas into additional WCs.
Improve Soundproofing
One major downside of shared living is noise. Research has found that noise complaints are a top issue for flatshare residents, who are often forced to listen to loud talking, TV noise and partying.
Adding insulation or soundproof plasterboard between bedrooms can dramatically improve tenant comfort, and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Carpets, draft excluders and soft-close doors are also inexpensive upgrades that make a big difference.
Remember that tenants are staying in more, so soundproofing isn’t just for those who want peace and quiet.
It’s also for tenants who want to have a friend over or watch TV late at night. Soundproofing provides privacy and the feeling of personal space.
For landlords, it reduces conflicts between tenants and prevents complaints from neighbours.
Design Your HMO for Modern Tenants
Successful HMO design is about thinking beyond the minimum legal requirements. But it’s also about understanding the needs of today’s flatshare tenants.
Modern tenants have different priorities compared to those from only a few years ago.
Many are older and more affluent professionals, but even students and younger workers expect a high standard of comfort, functionality and personal space.
By investing in practical upgrades like high-quality appliances, reliable internet and soundproofing, you can increase your rental income and attract tenants who are more likely to stay long term.
These improvements don’t require a massive budget, just a thoughtful approach to what modern renters truly value.