Top 5 Online Letting Agents in the UK
The UK rental market has evolved rapidly in recent years, and the rise of online letting agents is transforming how landlords rent out their properties. Online letting agents combine technology with landlord-friendly services to offer more affordable, transparent, and efficient alternatives to traditional high-street agencies.
Whether you’re a first-time landlord or an experienced property investor, choosing the right letting agent can have a big impact on your rental income and how smoothly your tenancy runs. In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 online letting agents in the UK, breaking down their services, fees, and what makes each one stand out.
If you want to save money and retain control while letting your property, online letting agents may be the ideal solution.
Table of Contents
Why Choose an Online Letting Agent?
Before we dive into the list, it’s helpful to understand why more landlords are turning to online letting agents:
- Cost Savings: Online agents typically charge lower fees than traditional agents by cutting out expensive physical offices and automating many processes.
- Convenience: Manage your property from your computer or smartphone with easy-to-use online platforms.
- Transparency: Fees and services are usually upfront and clear, helping landlords avoid surprise costs.
- Fast Marketing: Properties are listed quickly on major portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla.
- Flexibility: Many online agents allow landlords to self-manage or add optional management services.
Now, let’s look at the top 5 online letting agents you should consider if you’re renting out property in the UK.
1. OpenRent
OpenRent is often considered the UK’s leading online letting agent, popular for its straightforward pricing and comprehensive service.
Key Features:
- Letting service starting from a low one-off fee (usually around £29-£119 depending on extras).
- Listings automatically posted on major property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket.
- Tenant referencing and credit checks included.
- Legally compliant tenancy agreements and deposit protection.
- Optional rent collection and property management services.
- No ongoing commission fees—just one upfront payment.
Why Choose OpenRent?
OpenRent shines for landlords who want to keep control while saving on fees. It’s easy to use and transparent, with no hidden costs. If you prefer a DIY approach but want professional support on contracts and checks, OpenRent offers an excellent balance.
2. Purplebricks Lettings
Purplebricks is a well-known hybrid agent, combining online efficiency with some traditional agent features.
Key Features:
- Fixed upfront fee for tenant finding, typically around £495.
- Option to add rent collection and full management services at additional cost.
- Local property experts available for support.
- Listings on major portals.
- Tenancy agreement preparation and referencing included.
Why Choose Purplebricks?
Purplebricks suits landlords who want some personal agent support but don’t want to pay traditional agent commissions. The fixed fee structure provides cost certainty.
3. Yopa
Yopa offers flexible letting packages with a mix of online tools and local agent support.
Key Features:
- Tenant find fees starting from £299.
- Options for rent collection and full management.
- Local Yopa agents assist landlords with viewings and negotiations.
- Listings on Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket.
- Includes tenant referencing and legally compliant tenancy agreements.
Why Choose Yopa?
Yopa is ideal if you want a hybrid of online convenience with the reassurance of local agent expertise. The platform is user-friendly and designed to help landlords at every stage.
4. RentRound
RentRound focuses on making the renting process fast and easy with a user-friendly platform.
Key Features:
- Low upfront fees for tenant find services, often around £99.
- Tenant referencing and digital tenancy agreements.
- Marketing on major portals.
- Optional rent collection and management services.
- Dedicated support team for landlord queries.
Why Choose RentRound?
RentRound appeals to landlords who want to minimise upfront costs and manage the property themselves with support on demand. It’s simple, affordable, and well suited to smaller portfolios.
5. Doorsteps
Doorsteps, part of the Countryside group, offers an online letting service aimed at budget-conscious landlords.
Key Features:
- Tenant find fees starting from £249.
- Optional rent collection and management services.
- Marketing on major portals.
- Local property experts assist where needed.
- Full tenant referencing and legal documents provided.
Why Choose Doorsteps?
Doorsteps is great for landlords looking for a budget-friendly online letting solution with some access to local expertise. It’s a straightforward service with competitive fees.
5 Tips for Choosing the Right Online Letting Agent
When deciding which online letting agent to use, keep these tips in mind to make the best choice for your property and personal needs:
1. Compare Fees and What’s Included
Look beyond just the headline price. Check if tenant referencing, deposit protection, and tenancy agreements are included or cost extra. Also, consider if ongoing rent collection or management fees apply.
2. Consider How Much Support You Need
Some landlords prefer a completely DIY approach, while others want some agent support for viewings, tenant vetting, or maintenance coordination. Choose a platform that matches your comfort level.
3. Check Which Portals They Advertise On
The more popular property portals your listing appears on, the higher your chances of finding good tenants quickly. Ensure the online agent posts your property on sites like Rightmove and Zoopla.
4. Understand the Contract Terms
Read the terms carefully for cancellation policies, renewal fees, and what happens if tenants leave early. Transparent terms protect you from surprises.
5. Look for Positive Reviews and Reputation
Check online reviews and testimonials from other landlords. A reliable agent with good customer service can make letting easier and less stressful.
Pros and Cons of Online Letting Agents
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower fees compared to traditional agents | Limited face-to-face support |
| Faster, simpler property advertising | Some landlords may find self-management challenging |
| Transparent, upfront pricing | Optional management services may add costs |
| Convenient online platforms accessible 24/7 | Less local market knowledge than traditional agents |
| Access to legal and referencing tools | Can require more landlord involvement |
Final Thoughts
Online letting agents offer landlords in the UK an innovative, cost-effective way to rent out properties. From full-service platforms like Purplebricks and Yopa to more DIY-focused options like OpenRent and RentRound, there’s an online agent to suit almost every landlord’s needs.
If saving money and maintaining control are your priorities, OpenRent is an excellent place to start, thanks to its low fees, wide portal exposure, and professional tenancy services.
Before choosing, assess your time, budget, and management preferences carefully to find the right online letting agent for your property portfolio.
