Keeping a close eye on the Hertfordshire rental market is part of our routine at
M A S O N S. We’re continually evaluating which areas are popular, what the current market trends indicate and who is seeking to rent a property in the area. This year, we’ve spotted a rising star location at Johnson Place in Hitchin.
Welcome to Johnson Place
Set on Walsworth Road, Johnson Place is a residential block providing 92 addresses in total (85 flats and seven houses). Its location close to Hitchin Station, makes Johnson Place a very popular choice for tenants seeking a convenient commute into London or Cambridge.
What makes it a hot spot?
Well, over the past year, a total of 17 properties in Johnson Place have been successfully let. As you can see from the listings, the properties on offer tick plenty of boxes for both tenants and landlords.
This year’s listings included one-bedroom flats (£1,050-£1,250pcm) to two-bedroom flats (£1,250-£1,650pcm). Higher-end rents typically occurred in newly decorated properties, where landlords had recently invested in improving the property.
M A S O N S has successfully let a number of these properties – achieving some of the highest rents (£1,450pcm unfurnished and £1,600pcm furnished).
Why landlords love Johnson Place
Properties in Johnson Place lend themselves well to renting. As a relatively modern development, up-keep and repair work is typically manageable and again, the prime location ensures a steady and reliable demand from tenants.
Market trends indicate that Johnson Place landlords are currently enjoying an uplift in rental value (up 5.6%) and at present the expected gross rental yield is estimated at between 4.6% to 6.3%.
For example, for a two-bedroom apartment, we are seeing sale prices between £250k to £325k. Currently, a landlord with a £300k property can expect to achieve a higher end of rent of c.£1,450pcm. There is an annual service charge. However, this is relatively reasonable at £1,882 per annum. Based on the estimates above, this still leaves a healthy net yield of 5.17% (5.8% gross) on a £300k two-bedroom property.
Why tenants are snapping up Johnson Place properties
We’ve already noted the great location for commuters, with just a 5-minute walk to Hitchin Train Station. In addition to that, Johnson Places is very well placed for accessing several essential amenities – including grocery shops, takeaways, and pubs.
A little further away – but still in comfortable walking distance – is the centre of Hitchin, with its attractive mix of independent shops, restaurants and access to great local schools. For tenants who enjoy the outdoors, Hitchin is close to the popular Hitchin Lavender and has ample opportunities to spend time in green spaces. The town also hosts frequent food, music, and art events.
Due to its all-round-appeal, Hitchin attracts a wide range of tenants, from young professionals to families – there is something for everyone, and Johnson Place offers great access to everything Hitchin has to offer.
Thinking of investing in 2025?
Johnson Place is popular because it combines a range of characteristics required in a high performing rental property. Great location; easy-to-maintain properties; relatively low service charges and scope for good rental yields.
If exploring the possibility of a property investment is on your 2025 to do list, then please do contact M A S O N S to explore the potential Hitchin buy-to-let opportunities in more depth.
M A S O N S is a leading letting agent in Hitchin, covering rental and buy-to-let properties in Hertfordshire. Founded on award-winning lettings experience, we specialise in property management, buy-to-let in Hitchin, and residential lettings – drop us a line at [email protected] or call us on 01462 557477.
Please note: this article should not be interpreted as legal or financial advice.
