51ÂÒÂ×

John Humphris, Partner, Head of Relocation & Corporate Services, explores why partnering with 51ÂÒÂ× could be the best route for landlords looking for corporate tenants.

Q: Why should landlords consider letting their properties to corporate tenants?

JH: Corporate tenants represent one of the most reliable, professional and high-value segments of the rental market. Whether they’re executives relocating with major firms, diplomats, elite sports professionals, or wealthy international students, these tenants have a level of stability and reliability that many landlords are looking for. 

In some cases, leases are taken out in the company’s name, and with the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, which is likely to increase tenant protections and potentially limit landlord flexibility, this offers added security. Tenants are typically financially secure, well-vetted, and often supported by large employers or institutions, which means prompt rental payments and professional conduct.

More importantly, they often have medium- to long-term rental needs, making them attractive from a void-risk and management perspective. Many are relocating for work assignments that can last 1–3 years, or are part of global mobility programmes, so they aren’t speculative renters – they’re individuals with a clear purpose, timeline and financial backing.

Q: How does 51ÂÒÂ× help landlords access this high-value tenant base?

JH: Our Relocation & Corporate Services team was built specifically to serve landlords by opening access to these hard-to-reach, highly desirable tenants. While many estate agents claim to have a corporate function, we offer a truly market-leading service. Our dedicated sector specialists bring deep industry expertise and form the largest UK team focused exclusively on corporate lettings

We work directly with companies, relocation agents, embassies, universities, elite sports clubs, film production companies and other institutions to manage the homefinding process for their employees and stakeholders; meaning our landlord clients get exposure to a high volume of professionally supported, pre-qualified tenants.

Q: What makes 51ÂÒÂ×’s approach different?

JH: We provide a completely tailored service, where every corporate enquiry is handled by a dedicated member of our team who sees the process through from start to finish – there are no hand-offs, it’s a personal service.

We accompany clients to all viewings and provide a fully white-glove experience for the tenant – a big value-add that not only enhances the tenant’s journey but also increases the likelihood of a swift and successful let for the landlord. Our team speaks multiple languages and specialises in cultural nuances, meaning nothing is lost in translation.

Q: What types of tenants do you work with?

JH: We support a wide variety of sectors, including Japanese corporate tenants, where companies often prefer to sign the lease directly in the company’s name (providing landlords with that added layer of security). Our dedicated Japan Desk is staffed by fluent Japanese speakers who understand the unique needs of both the tenant and landlord sides, with relationships that have been built up over years. This is a market that few agents understand or service well – and it’s one of our strongest and most consistent sectors.

Our team also caters for niche markets such as HNWs, sports professionals, film and media clients, Chinese expatriates, international students, and diplomats. We transact with 70% of the London Premier League’s football clubs, and have key relationships with many of the leading production companies and studios. Each desk is staffed by experienced professionals who understand the needs, expectations, and unique requirements of these clients.

Q: Are there any other benefits landlords should be aware of?

JH: As well as securing top-tier tenants, landlords benefit from peace of mind, knowing that our team will look after all the heavy lifting. We look after the whole process, handling everything from viewing logistics and negotiation, to paperwork, referencing and handover.

Landlords should also be aware that we also support short stay and serviced accommodation requirements, offering landlords with flexible arrangements access to high-quality tenants looking for premium temporary housing – whether for a few weeks or a few months. These are often C-suite execs, visiting dignitaries, or sports stars needing a luxury base while in town.

And because we have industry-leading relationships with institutions and relocation companies, much of our business is repeat and referral-based – a testament to the trust placed in us by both tenants and landlords.

If you’re looking to maximise exposure to the very best tenants in the market – professionally vetted, financially secure, and supported by global institutions – we can help.

We provide a best-in-class service, which combined with our depth of experience, unrivalled corporate relationships, and sector-specific expertise, makes us the natural choice for landlords looking for peace of mind, and consistent, high-quality lets.

To find out more about how we work with landlords, get in touch.