The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 took effect in 2026, and it is changing how tenants think about their next move. The issue is not that renting has become worse. It is that security, cost, supply and choice now look different. We welcome stronger tenant protection, but many renters are asking whether monthly rent is still the right long-term use of their money. If you are considering ownership, our South East London property search service can turn browsing into a focused plan.
Ready to plan before your next renewal?
If your tenancy is coming up for review, call 020 7358 1188. A short conversation can help you decide whether buying is realistic now, or what needs to happen first.
What changed under the Renters’ Rights Act in 2026?
From 1 May 2026, section 21 “no-fault” evictions ended for existing and new tenancies in England, and most assured tenancies moved to rolling periodic agreements. Tenants now have more flexibility because they can leave by giving two months’ notice. Landlords have less certainty because possession depends on specific legal grounds, and rent increases are more structured.
For tenants, this creates protection. For some landlords, it creates a reason to review whether letting still fits their plans. Renters who once waited for the “right time” are now asking a sharper question: if rental supply tightens, should I prepare for ownership?
Why are tenants in South East London thinking about buying?
The push is local. South East London renters are already paying significant monthly rent, while parts of the sales market have become more negotiable than they were during faster-moving years. ONS local data for Lewisham, Greenwich and Southwark shows the rent and first-time buyer context clearly.
| Area | Average rent, April 2026 | Average first-time buyer price, March 2026 | Buyer signal |
| Lewisham | £1,816 | £433,000 | Rent pressure with a lower entry point than many inner boroughs |
| Greenwich | £1,949 | £412,000 | Strong rent growth and a broad mix of homes |
| Southwark | £2,395 | £494,000 | Higher rent, but first-time buyer prices fell year on year |
A renter paying £1,800 to £2,400 per month still faces deposit and mortgage tests, but the monthly commitment is large enough to justify a buying plan. This urgency explains why many renters with stable income, savings, or family support are now prioritising buying in South East London.
For area context, our guide to why South East London works for buyers is useful when comparing transport, schools, green spaces and neighbourhood feel.
The Renters’ Rights Act has given tenants stronger protection, but it has also made many renters look harder at the value of owning a home they can control.
Which South East London buyers are likely to move first?
The first movers are not only tenants under pressure. They are renters who have done the math and are tired of competing for lets. Three groups stand out:
- First-time buyers who were waiting for price clarity.
- Families who want control over schools, space, pets, and stability.
- Long-term renters who are tired of high rent without building equity.
With South London property experience dating back to 2001, and local knowledge built from living in the area since 1996, we know the decision often starts with micro-area detail. This is why we focus on routes to stations, school gates, lease terms, service charges, and resale appeal.
If more rental homes come up for sale, tenants may see more ex-rental flats and houses reaching the market. Some will need careful checking: lease length, energy performance, repair history, building management, and likely resale demand. That is where current properties for sale should be assessed alongside the wider local market.
How should renters prepare to buy without rushing?
A law change is not a reason to overpay. The stronger move is to turn rental uncertainty into a buying plan.
- Confirm your budget with a mortgage adviser before viewing.
- Compare rent, mortgage payments, service charges, ground rent, insurance and maintenance.
- Shortlist by commute, lifestyle and resale strength, not only asking price.
- View with a maintenance checklist.
- Check leasehold terms early.
- Negotiate with evidence, not emotion.
This works especially well in New Cross, Brockley, Deptford, Telegraph Hill, Nunhead, Peckham and Greenwich because street-by-street pricing varies.
Book a property valuation as a practical starting point for sellers who want serious buyers rather than wasted viewings.
What should landlords and sellers understand about tenant buyers?
Tenant buyers are often practical. They understand local rents, know transport routes, and usually spot poor property management quickly. They may move decisively when a home feels familiar, well-presented, and correctly priced.
For landlords considering a sale, the new rules make timing, notice position and presentation important.
A property marketed to tenants who want ownership needs clear documents and fast answers about lease length, ground rent, service charge, building works and chain position.
If the asset is more suited to redevelopment or a site opportunity, land and development opportunities should be considered separately from a standard residential sale.
Buying is not cheaper for every tenant. It involves deposit requirements, legal costs, surveys, moving costs and interest-rate risk. But for a renter who wants stability and control, buying can offer a clearer direction than another rental cycle.
A clear route from renting to owning in South East London
The 2026 implementation has not made every tenant a buyer. It has made more tenants ask better questions: how long do I want to rent, what would I buy, what risks should I avoid, and which neighbourhood genuinely suits my life?
South East London is well placed for that conversation because it offers Zone 2 and outer-zone options, period homes, flats, family houses, green space, schools, stations and strong local identity. The smartest buyers will not rush. They will define their budget, choose a small search area, inspect carefully, and negotiate calmly.
Speak to us before you make your next move
If you are renting now and thinking about buying, call 020 7358 1188 or email . We can help you understand the local market, focus your search and avoid the time-wasting that makes buying harder than it needs to be.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Renters’ Rights Act mean I should buy now?
No. It means you should review your options. If your rent is high, your income is stable and your deposit is close, buying may be worth exploring.
What changed for tenants from 1 May 2026?
Section 21 “no-fault” evictions ended for existing and new tenancies in England. Most assured tenancies became rolling periodic agreements, giving tenants more flexibility.
Why is South East London attractive to renters who want to buy?
It combines transport links, established neighbourhoods, green spaces, schools, and a wide mix of flats and houses. Entry prices vary significantly by street and property type.
What is the best first step for a tenant who wants to buy?
Confirm affordability, then narrow your search to a small number of areas. A focused brief saves time and reduces the risk of overpaying.
