u/Okgirlgollum

Hey 👋

I’ve viewed a terraced house I’m considering renting, and I really liked the house itself.

For context: I’m in a bit of a catch 22 situation whereas I have received a section 21 due to landlord selling, this is rife in my area at the moment. Thus, the quantity of rentals coming up that I would even consider as marginally suitable is very little, and with time running out, beggars can’t be choosers. I’m currently not in the position to buy due to new self employment and figures not aligning. Been to brokers etc. basically renting it the only current option.

The only thing that’s making me hesitate is the next-door neighbour. Their garden looked really neglected, and there was dog poo in the shared bin access/alley that both houses would use. From what I can tell, they own their property.

I’m trying to figure out if I’m overthinking this or if it’s a genuine red flag. I know in terraces you can’t avoid shared spaces, so it feels like something that could make my life uncomfortable whilst living there.

Would this be enough to put you off renting somewhere? Has anyone dealt with something similar?

Also, would it be unreasonable to knock and politely ask about their dog (just to get a sense of things), or is that likely to cause awkwardness before even moving in? I am also slightly concerned about the dog in general as the fence separating us is only 4ft and not the most secure.

The positives are that the landlord is very accommodating and has already replaced the gate, has agreed to some small upgrades and sounds like she really wants to make this work for us. However, what she can’t do is control the neighbour.

Thanks in advance 🙂

I’m looking for an objective view on a rental decision before I lose my mind.

I’m (30F) self employed (for 4 years) earning approx 25k/year due to a reduce in working hours following illness of an immediate family member. My partner is currently self-employed following redundancy last year, so household income is variable and not guaranteed.

We have been served a Section 21 notice as the landlord is selling up (too expensive to bring EPC up) and need to move within 8 weeks. There is no immediate urgency but there is a fixed timeframe.

We are considering a 3-bed, 3 storey townhouse at £1,250pcm located in a village approximately 50–55 minutes’ walk from the nearest town centre, and where we currently live. I do not drive.

The property layout is near perfect for my home-based business. The entire ground floor would be dedicated to business use, allowing separation between client space and private living space. This is a key functional requirement, as my business cannot currently expand due to insurance restrictions where work and personal space are combined.

Property positives:

- Well presented, spacious, modern home (wouldn’t be downsizing)

- Located in a nice area

- Suitable layout for full ground-floor business use

- Separation between client and private living areas

- Off-street parking

- Landlord is known personally (though not close) and aware of circumstances

- Local bus route available (limited frequency, 3-4 services/day, last service 16:00)

- Potential for increased client base due to nearby housing developments and new treatments

Property constraints:

- 50–55 minute walk to town centre (including steep incline)

- No personal vehicle access, will need to rely on partner

- Limited public transport availability

- Nearest gym 45 minutes’ walk; nearest shop 30 minutes’ walk. Nothing else in the area

Financial considerations:

- Current housing costs: £586/month each

- Proposed housing costs: £873/month, with the possibility of needing to pay some, if not all of my partners share for time being. Not including my personal bills

- Rent is at upper limit of affordability based on current income

- Partner income is currently unstable

- Guarantor required (available)

- 25k savings

- Potential need for time off work within next 12 months (unconfirmed) due to family member illness

Landlord / property condition factors:

- Property was viewed in fair but worn condition due to previous tenant (significant cleanliness issues and general neglect)

- Some cosmetic deterioration is present, including carpets that are in poor condition and areas that would benefit from repainting. Condition may be considered acceptable by some tenants but would likely require cosmetic updating to reach a higher standard

- Estate agent indicated this is the landlords only property, has limited financial resources and can be difficult to deal with

- Landlord declined request for rent adjustment despite property condition and being overpriced for location, although was rented out to previous tenant for same price

- Landlord advised cleaning and cosmetic improvements (e.g. painting, sanding doors) would be our responsibility if we deemed necessary (he doesn’t agree)

Decision point:

The property meets functional requirements for home business operations but presents constraints in affordability, transport access, and landlord/property condition.

There is uncertainty around availability of alternative properties that meet both affordability and suitable business layout requirements within the given timeframe and location constraints.

I am trying to assess whether this represents a reasonable trade-off given the constraints (timeframe, income uncertainty, and specific layout requirement), compared to waiting for an alternative property.

Looking for external input on whether this type of trade-off (business suitability vs financial/location constraints and potential landlord risk) is typically considered reasonable in similar situations.

Thanks!