Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

This week, we’re down in Fontwell near Arundel in West Sussex, meeting Bronwynn and Seb Wisdom at their four-bedroom rented home.

The couple made the move from South Africa in 2023, and though they weren’t in a position to buy, they wanted more than just a small ‘starter’ home.

And so, they looked to Arundel, which just last year was crowned the most relaxed spot in all of Europe. It’s just three miles from the coast, after all.

Here’s what Browynn had to say about their renting situation…

Tell us about yourselves…

We’re Bronwynn and Seb Wisdom, aged 35 and 36, and we relocated to the UK from South Africa in 2023. We had considered a range of options to find the right home for us and our two cats.

We knew we wanted to put down roots, but buying a property immediately wasn’t our priority, and we were concerned by the restrictions and rules of renting with a traditional buy-to-let landlord.

When we came across our home in Fontwell, near Arundel in West Sussex, we realised we could tick each and every box with professional rental homes provider Leaf Living.

What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there?  

We reserved a newly built four-bedroom, three-bathroom family house at Leaf Living’s Fontwell Meadows development, where we’ve lived since 2023.

After seeing our families settle in the UK, our hearts longed to be closer to them. So, we made the decision to follow them and start a new chapter.

Sebastian went ahead first, determined to find the perfect place for us. I stayed behind in South Africa, navigating the complexities of my British citizenship and ensuring every detail was in place for our beloved cats to make the journey with me. They’re not just pets, they’re family, and we couldn’t imagine leaving them behind.

Sebastian moved in with his parents, who welcomed him into their three-bedroom home with open arms. For nine months in 2023, their kindness gave him a roof over his head while he searched for our future home.

They had space for him, and we were endlessly grateful, but we knew it was temporary. The house, though filled with warmth, wasn’t quite ready for both of us, especially with our cats in tow. His parents didn’t have pets, and we didn’t want to impose.

Every call, every update about potential homes brought us closer to reuniting. We held onto the dream of being together again, in a place we could call our own.

Now, we couldn’t be happier. The sense of comfort and belonging we feel here is something we’ll cherish forever.

How much do you pay to live here?

£1,700 per month with an initial deposit of £1,900. There are no hidden costs such as service charges.

And what do you get for what you pay?

Our house came with new white goods in the kitchen, which saved a considerable expense on upfront purchases and other added extras including fibre internet in our monthly rent, as well as a video doorbell, Hive thermostat and keyless smart lock.

The living area is spacious, we have allocated parking and all the developers homes have an EPC rating of B or above, which keeps our household bills low.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

We initially looked into buying and even priced up a mortgage and worked out that we’d end up paying £700 more on monthly mortgage payments for a property of the same size.

From a financial perspective for us at the moment, renting made far more sense.

What do you love about your home? 

We had to consider our cats and were delighted to find that Fontwell Meadows is a pet-friendly rental community. We probably inquired at about 40 or 50 places, and most wouldn’t allow pets or even consider it, and any that did often charged more for smaller spaces because we had animals.

The private garden has been another highlight, offering a safe outdoor space for our cats, who both love exploring.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

In Fontwell, near Arundel in West Sussex. Seb has a 10-minute drive to work – and for me, it opened so many opportunities when job searching, as I could commute to a lot of different places, as there is easy access to cities like Chichester, Brighton, and Portsmouth.

I ended up with a role based in Tangmere, so it’s only a five-minute bus ride, an easy daily routine.

Why did you choose this property?

When Seb originally came to view a different house at Fontwell Meadows, it wasn’t quite the layout we wanted. Then our home became available, and the lettings team was super helpful in making sure we got the type of property that we wanted.

When he couldn’t attend a viewing, they even filmed a walkthrough for us so I, who was still in South Africa at the time, could see it too.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

Our home is decorated beautifully with quality finishes, but we’ve been allowed to personalise our home with prior approval, which is a rare offering in rental homes.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

We weren’t looking for a small starter apartment, as we needed a space that reflects where we are in our lives. We both really felt as soon as we saw the house that it was a place we could truly make our home.

What do you like about renting your home?

The process was so smooth. The paperwork was straightforward, and we didn’t have to wait weeks to get things agreed upon. If anything does happen, they’re super responsive and quick to sort things out.

We don’t feel anxious about raising concerns because we know the team is there to help. We feel like we’re in a place now that really feels like home, and we know we are going to be here for a long time. We originally signed a tenancy for one year, but we have already extended that.

How did you find this property?

We spent a tonne of time online, looking for homes that suited our look, feel and lifestyle. We came across Leaf Living in this search, and their homes at Fontwell Meadows went straight to the top of our list.

The lettings agent took Sebastian to see a few houses so he could find the size and layout that we both wanted, as I was still in South Africa at the time. When the agent sent through a video for me to see and it was still available, we both knew it was the one for us.

How have you made this place feel like home?

We haven’t done too much to the house yet; it was a beautiful brand-new home to move into with no decoration or repairs needed. We’re planning on being here for a long time, so we’re not in a rush to find our interior style.

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat?

We have everything we need and more with this home; there isn’t anything we would add at the moment. Seb has since bought an electric vehicle to match the house because we have the EV charger available here. No hassle with any extra installation was needed.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

We’ve not had any problems, and the team is super quick to get back to you if you need anything.

When our Wi-Fi went down, that could have been a disaster as we occasionally work from home, but there was an extremely quick turnaround from our property manager to fix things. It’s helpful that you’re not just dealing with an agent but a professional landlord.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

We might look to buy in the future someday, but we have no plans to move. In fact, we have extended our original tenancy because we have everything we need here.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

This week, we’re in Aldgate, East London, meeting Pedro Henrique, 28, and Fiona Ann, 27, at their two-bedroom rented flat.

Having met in 2020 when they were both living in Spain, the pair fell head over heels and subsequently moved back to London together, where they’d each lived previously.

They started out by the river in Vauxhall, but after realising that they wanted more from their living space, the couple made the move to East London. Now, they’re both less than a 30-minute walk away from their offices, and have their own balcony and plenty of space to host friends.

Here’s what Pedro had to say about their renting journey…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Pedro, and I’m Brazilian but have lived most of my life abroad. I’ve moved 10 times through a total of six different countries. Over the years I’ve kept coming back to London. My partner Fiona is American and had previously lived in London.

We met in 2020 when we were both living in Spain. At the very beginning of our relationship, Fiona got Covid so we decided to quarantine together.

We spent two weeks together when we were still very much getting to know each other. Luckily, we really enjoyed our time together and have been together ever since.

Where is your home based?

We live at Alma, a Zone 1 rental community located in Aldgate East between the City and East London’s creative neighbourhoods. 

What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there?  

We have a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment. We moved to Alma in January 2025.

How much do you pay to live here?

We pay £3,700 a month between the two of us.

And what do you get for what you pay?

We wanted to live in a modern building that was within walking distance from our jobs. We liked that Alma had a gym, a roof terrace, a workspace and more.

We also valued having people on-site at the building 24/7. At our last place, we used to get packages stolen from time to time which was always quite a hassle.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Alma is an excellent place to live. The amenities are great and feel almost like an extension of your home. The staff is also incredibly friendly and always willing to lend a helping hand.

We also love that Alma has partnerships with local businesses that encourage us to get out and try different things in the area. 

What do you love to do in your flat? 

Fiona enjoys reading in the winter garden and cosying up in our big chair out there. I enjoy watching movies, and TV shows and playing on my PlayStation. Together, we love to cook meals together and play cards or backgammon. 

What do you think of the area? 

We really love the sense of culture and the number of local businesses in the area as we think it’s quite hard to find that local sense in such a central area. Fiona’s a big fan of Libreria Bookshop and I love the Classic Football Shirt store.

We wanted a place from which we could both walk to our respective offices in 30 minutes or less. We’re a one-minute walk from Aldgate East station and five minutes from Aldgate station which gives us access to several train lines. We’re also within walking distance of Liverpool Street.

How did you find this property?

We found it browsing on Rightmove. I had been looking for a long time for a modern building in Zone 1 and had a hard time finding options that excited us. We were so happy to come across Alma. 

How have you made this place feel like home? 

We’ve been decorating the place quite a bit, hanging up some paintings and family photos. As we have two bedrooms we made the second one an office/guest room and we’ve also created a very cosy space in our winter garden to read books and relax.

We both love to host people and already have friends lined up to come stay with us as the second bedroom is quite spacious!

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

We’ve found that having our walls decorated is an easy way to make the place feel like our home. We’ve got a mix of art we’ve picked up from different trips, family pictures, and postcards from loved ones.

Fiona’s grandma is an antique dealer, so we’ve got some pieces from her around the house that we think add character and a bit of grounding force to quite a modern apartment. 

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

We were previously living in Vauxhall. When we moved there, I was mainly working from home, so we ended up prioritising a bigger apartment vs location.

Looking back, we’ve realised that though our previous flat had a lot of space, it wasn’t set up super well. We’ve been really happy with how the space is designed at Alma, even little things like the closet shelving is super functional.

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat? 

We would love to have even more sunlight, but understand that that’s a tall order in London! 

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

We had some slightly oversensitive leak detection but this was very quickly dealt with by the building staff.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

No plans to move anytime soon. We’re not thinking of buying a place currently, but it’s something we’re considering down the road.

Shall we have a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

This week, we’re in Battersea visiting Joanne Baudin, who first saw homes in her building advertised on the side of a red London bus. Along with her boyfriend, Adam, she was one of the first residents to move into the development in August 2023.

Fast forward to 2025 and the pair have made friends with their neighbours thanks to the communal spaces and activities on offer, which range from ice skating to clay workshops and yoga classes.

Their property might be compact, but they use the entire building as their home. Now, the only thing they feel they’re missing is an art studio and a sauna.

Here’s what Joanne had to say about their renting journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I am a 32-year-old interior architect, artist, public speaker and lived experience advisor, and I live with my partner Adam Kirton who is a writer, educator and teacher. 

What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there? 

I rent a studio apartment with my fiancé at Folk Co-Living Florence Dock, which is a communal living property where we have a private apartment, but share all our living spaces with other residents.

It’s somewhere between a house share and a holiday destination. We moved into our flat in August 2023 shortly after the building opened. Initially, we signed a one-year contract which we have now extended for another year.

How much do you pay to live here?

£2,060.

And what do you get for what you pay?

Our apartment has a kitchenette, en-suite bathroom, double bed, TV and desk, as well as a storage unit in the basement where we store our suitcases, and camping equipment. We also use the bike storage for our bicycles.

This price includes all bills, a 24/7 onsite front desk team, shared spaces like roof terraces, a fitness studio, cinema room, bar, onsite shop, andco-working space — the list goes on.

There are also free events every month. Since we’ve lived here there’s been laser tag, ice skating, soap making, cooking masterclasses, yoga classes, clay workshops, and sip n’ paints. There are also big annual parties in summer, and at Halloween and New Year’s.

However, the developer, Folk, does offer different pricing options depending on the length of your stay, the size of your studio and whether you live alone.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Absolutely, considering that we live a one-minute walk from the Thames and have access to so many facilities, it really is a competitive price.

Folk makes for a stress-free life; we appreciate the simplicity of a bills-included contract and accessing everything we need without leaving our doorstep.

What do you love to do in your flat?

The thing I love the most about living here is the ease of all bills included within the contract and access to the many facilities. I run a creative club with other residents where we experiment with different art mediums every month.

I use my flat mainly as a bedroom and do the majority of ‘living’ in the shared spaces: movie nights in the cinema, a game of pool after work, meal prepping in the community kitchen, creating art and writing on the 7th floor with beautiful views of the city, or reading in the library and sunken lounge. 

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

I love the Battersea area. Living on the river in London is a wonderful way to experience London and I regularly use the Uber Boat as a way of commuting which makes it a pleasant experience compared to the tube or bus. I also love the many cute local shops and restaurants in the area.

How have you made this place feel like home?

We have chosen to really embrace the co-living lifestyle, and as a result, have made incredible friends from all over the world, working in a variety of different fields.

Once you walk into Folk you are met with a different atmosphere. We also get involved with the local community, supporting the food bank, working with local charities, and striking deals with local businesses.

Additionally, the Folk team is so friendly, encouraging, and supportive.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you making the place your own?

Before moving to Folk, I’d always rented in old houses where landlords weren’t precious about me painting the walls or hanging pictures. I thought that I’d struggle with a new build, but that’s not the case.

The aesthetic is modern, neutral, and minimalist so it makes for a great backdrop to add personal touches like books, plants, and of course, art.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Despite our actual apartment being quite small, we feel like we have plenty of space. We use our apartment as a bedroom and the entire building as our home.

We do batch cooking in the community kitchen, have friends over to play board games in the lounge, and use the gym, video games room, cinema, library. The co-working space is also ideal for my hybrid work life.

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat?

The apartment itself could be improved with a little relaxation area, a comfortable chair to sit in and read with a cup of tea. I enjoy using the co-working space, but it doesn’t lend itself to creative work, so I would adore an art studio to use with all my fellow creators and artists in the building.

I also wouldn’t object to the addition of a wellness area in the gym, while having a meditation garden and a sauna would elevate the experience of living here.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

Thankfully, we don’t have to deal with any maintenance issues ourselves, we simply log a maintenance request through the resident’s app. We’ve done this for our flat, but also for the shared spaces.

I find it user-friendly as it gives the option to take a photo, video, voice note or simply text, which is followed up by the maintenance team or reception. It is a fantastic little system.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

The dream and plan is to move to the country, buy some land and build our own house, but while we live in London, we have no plan or desire to move anywhere else.

This place is more than our home, it is our community, and we are happy here.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series that explores what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

This week, we’re visiting 24-year-old content creator Maddie Borge, who moved from Norway to start her dream life in central London six years ago.

Now renting an apartment with her boyfriend in Zone 1, she’s in love with the freedom and safety she’s been afforded by her area.

And in sharing lifestyle content on her socials, she’s amassed 327,000 TikTok followers, who she inspires her followers with nifty renter-friendly DIY hacks.

Here’s what she had to say about her renting situation…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m a 24-year-old Norwegian living in London, posting lifestyle videos on social media for a living.

I love interior design, DIY projects, travelling and exploring all London has to offer – all of which I document on my Instagram, TikTok and YouTube accounts. 

How much do you pay to live here?

My rent is £2,450 per month, which I split with my boyfriend. 

And what do you get for what you pay?

A charming 55-square meter, one-bed maisonette, moments away from the best restaurants, cafes and shops central London has to offer. 

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Definitely. We have so much space in such a great location. 

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

Central London (Zone 1). I love living in the middle of everything. I can walk almost everywhere, there are so many great places to eat, and always things to do. I’m just a short 15 minutes from Regents Park.

The flat is also away from the busiest streets, so it’s nice and quiet in the evenings and I always feel very safe. 

How did you find this property?

Rightmove! I saw the apartment on the site, asked to tour it the next day and put in an offer later that evening. 

How have you made this place feel like home? 

The flat came unfurnished, so we’ve been able to bring in all our own furniture. It has some really charming features like Georgian windows, ceiling cornices and blue kitchen tiles.

I’ve tried to choose pieces that play into those features, while also incorporating Scandinavian colours and minimalism. 

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

As someone who loves interior design, but has been renting for the past six years, I’ve had to learn a few tips and tricks on how to make fully reversible, renter-friendly changes.

I have used command strips to hang wall art, changed curtains, put up window film, and wrapped our kitchen shelves in contact paper, among other things. All these changes help make the flat feel more homely, and can be easily removed when we move out.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

Definitely. The flat is very cleverly designed. We have closets and cupboards for outerwear, suitcases, clothes and linens/towels.

The bedroom is the biggest room in the flat, so we also decided to convert part of the room into a home office, which has been helpful for WFH.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

We’ve had to have the washing machine and microwave replaced since moving in. We’re lucky to have a great property management team, and whenever we report a problem, they’re on it the next day. It’s really great. 

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

I’m incredibly happy and settled at the moment. Having moved five times over the past six years of living in London, you realise how costly and stressful moving is – especially with the current state of the rental market.

We signed a multi-year lease on this apartment, and we’re hoping to stay until we’ll eventually be able to buy. 

Shall we take a look around?

This article was originally published on July 13, 2024.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

This week, we’re up in Birmingham chatting to Patrick Magner. Having moved to the West Midlands to study at university, he fell in love with the city and decided to stay.

Now, he pays £1,275 per month for a one-bedroom flat he shares with his girlfriend, and they’re hoping to save enough money in an ISA to buy one day.

In the meantime though, his current flat is so beloved by friends that he’s become the designated host for get-togethers – and some mates even want to move into the building themselves.

Here’s what Patrick had to say about their renting situation…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I’m 24 and work as a transport planner in the city. I moved to Birmingham about seven years ago for university, following in the footsteps of my parents, and fell in love with the city so I decided to stay.

It’s got so much going on and so much exciting potential that you don’t tend to realise until you’ve been. I now live with my partner who works at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital – also nice and close to our new apartment.

What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there?  

We’re renting a one-bedroom apartment and moved in at the end of June this year, shortly after the building’s completion.

How much do you pay to live here?

We pay a total of £1,275 a month for a fully furnished apartment, along with use of all the amenities across what is a brand-new, purpose-built rental address.

And what do you get for what you pay?

We get a really spacious apartment which is furnished throughout with a king-size bed and extremely modern furniture. It also has lots of windows, which (bizarrely) not all city centre flats seem to have in my experience.

The real highlight is the residents’ facilities which we have full access to, including a ‘Sky Lounge’ – a big entertaining space on the rooftop with views over the entire West Midlands.

It makes us the envy of our friends, who have nominated us very much the hosts of most get-togethers now. In fact, some are already looking to join us here once their tenancies are up.

The facilities also include a great gym which we’re in all the time. In my opinion, it matches the quality of any mainstream membership chain and is well above the other purpose-built rental offerings we looked at in the area. There are squat racks, trap bars, watt bikes and Smith machines! As a runner, having all this quite literally under the same roof enables me to keep up all the necessary strength and conditioning training.

We also have a business lounge, with superb broadband, quiet areas and meeting rooms, ideal for my WFH days. 

In addition to the amenities, there’s also a courtyard garden, we have a concierge-style onsite team round the clock, a residents’ app and various events, which are great for getting to know other people.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

I’ve lived in Birmingham for over seven years and experienced my fair share of renting.

When you look at the market, most decent one-bed properties in the city are well over £1,000 a month so this stacks up as great value given all the extras, and what I’m ultimately saving in things like gym membership fees.

As a brand, Cortland is on the more luxurious spectrum of renting experience, but the difference is abundantly clear and it still makes good financial sense.

So much so, several of our friends are considering moving in together to take the step up now they’ve seen what renting could be like.

What do you love to do in your flat?

I love to cook! The kitchen is fantastic: extremely spacious and fully equipped with modern appliances. We also love hosting and entertaining friends, especially up in the Sky Lounge.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

We’re set on Broad Street in the city’s Westside district. I’m just a 20-minute walk from my office in the Jewellery Quarter (a perfect commute) and equally well located to make the most of the nightlife and bars that both Broad Street and the nearby Brindley Street have to offer.

We’re really well connected with the tram network close by, train station and a plethora of bus services which run along Broad Street into the city centre and out towards Selly Oak. I couldn’t ask for a better location.

How did you find this property?

We’d been scouring the portals in a rather stressful lead-up to the end of our previous tenancy when the Cortland Broad Street properties suddenly came to the market, which we spotted via Rightmove.

We went to see one other purpose-built rental development but fell in love with Broad Street straight away when we visited and made the decision the same day. 

How have you made this place feel like home?

We’re part of the community WhatsApp group and have attended a Cortland event to get to know our neighbours and the brilliant team. We’re looking forward to doing more of these as more people move in and our neighbour pool grows.  

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

We don’t feel the need to really decorate as we really like the existing layout and style of the apartment, particularly as it’s brand new and done by a professional designer.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

At first, we were dubious of the idea of a one-bedroom apartment, worried it would be too small for the two of us. However, we were pleasantly surprised here as they are spacious by comparison and have a lot of clever storage too.

The under-bed storage is a real game-changer and allows us to ensure we can store lots of stuff here to avoid visible clutter within the apartment.

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat?

The only thing I can think we were missing was an ironing board. But that’s it. Which says a lot about how well-equipped it all is for us.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

We’ve had no problems here. There was one small snag when we moved in, but it was sorted by the onsite team on the very same day.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

We do want to buy our own place eventually, when we’re settled longer term and the investment makes the best financial sense.

For now, as we build up our Help to Buy ISAs, this is an ideal home – and we intend to stay until we’re ready to put down a deposit.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

This week, we’re in East London visiting Arooj Aftab, who pays £1,780 for her share of her two-bedroom, two-bathroom flat with her sister.

Since moving in, she’s seen her bills cut drastically, as her monthly rent payment even includes a free coffee prescription, a co-working space and even access to a state-of-the-art gym.

Here’s what Arooj had to say about her renting situation…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Arooj Aftab, Founder of Done With Diversity and What’s The Solution? I consult brands on culture and community, pushing for more representation both behind the scenes and on camera.

I curate and share ideas, and I like to make visions come to life. I’m definitely a bit of a multihyphenate.

What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there?

I rent a two-bed home at Westfield’s Coppermaker Square in East London, where I have been living with my twin sister Kaya for the last 12 months, and we’ve just renewed for another year.

How much do you pay to live here?

My twin and I split the rent, and my half is £1,780. It’s a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, in the heart of Stratford, right by Olympic Park and Westfield.

And what do you get for what you pay?

A tonne of amenities. Before moving here, I had separate outgoings for a gym, co-working, and even coffee. This is now included in my rent which is great.

I also have access to so many amazing amenities such as a resident’s lounge which has screening rooms, games, a private dining room and a roof garden.

All residents also get access to amazing events and networking opportunities. I have attended everything from sound baths and aromatherapy workshops to local restaurant takeovers and cooking classes.

These events provide fantastic opportunities to meet and connect with fellow residents and like-minded creatives, while also learning new skills or focusing on my health & wellbeing.

The real cherry on top is the 25m pool and fitness centre – it’s got everything including a huge gym floor, sauna and steam room – plus spin classes and a yoga studio. You really don’t have to ever leave.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Yeah for sure. There’s a lot of added value that comes with living at Coppermaker Square. I think the amenities and community are great for the rent I pay.

Having everything on my doorstep has been so convenient. It’s also helped my workflow in ways that I didn’t think and I think it falls down to accessibility and ease.

What do you love to do in your flat?

Everything. Since moving to Coppermaker Square I have become such a homebody, but my true love is hosting and having friends over. Particularly now that I have a far bigger space than I used to, as well as access to things like a BBQ on the terrace and a bookable private dining room.

It’s so nice to have people over and bond over a nice meal. Plus, I can easily pop down in the lift and straight into Westfield to grab anything I need for entertaining.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

My home is based in Stratford, East London. The area is buzzing with creativity and just feels so right for me. East London has its own charm, and there’s a lot going on here all the time.

Stratford in particular, has so many cultural hubs and there’s always something to do in the area that makes it so exciting. The V&A is also opening here very soon, which I’m excited about.

Coppermaker Square is also super well connected via the underground, Overground and Elizabeth lines, with easy access to other cool East London areas like Hackney Wick, Shoreditch, and Dalston.

There are also some incredible universities around, such as UAL, UCL, and the University of East London, which also has a Stratford campus. Having worked with them before, I’m inspired by the creativity and innovation of the students and the talent that is in and around the area.

How did you find this property?

I found this property while looking for a place that suited my needs as a creative professional and stumbled upon the social media page. The community aspect, location, amazing resident events and amenities offered at Coppermaker Square were a perfect fit for me.

How have you made this place feel like home?

I’ve made this place feel like home by decorating it with my personal style, incorporating pops of colour and unique pieces that act as an extension of my fashion. Creating a space that is warm and inviting is so important to me.

Some of my favourite pieces include coffee table books, pink and sage Mustard Made cabinets, and an art wall made up of a collection of prints from local shops. Being part Pakistani, it was important for me to incorporate Urdu prints and add texture and colour to my home.

I feel like when you can add your own personality into the space, that’s when you can really make it a home. With Westfield and so many local retailers on our doorstep, sourcing unique elements that make it feel personal is easy.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

One of the things I love most about Coppermaker Square is the complete freedom to decorate my home and really make it my own.

It’s a luxury that few rentals allow – at my last place, we weren’t even allowed to touch the walls. But here we are encouraged to decorate and customise our spaces. I’ve been able to paint walls, hang artwork, and create my ideal living area.

Additionally, the onsite maintenance team is always available to help with moving in and transforming your space. On the Resident App, you can book services and support, so there are always hands on the ground to help you bring your dream apartment to life.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes, I definitely feel like I have enough space. The two-bed apartment has plenty of room, and the communal areas provide additional flexibility and space to enjoy. Having access to a dedicated co-working space means I can easily switch environments, which is great for productivity.

The larger space and access to amenities like a roof garden, lounge, and green spaces like the public square and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park nearby make it feel even more spacious.

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat?

I feel like I have everything I need. Though a private outdoor space like a balcony would be a nice addition to enjoy the views over East London – there are other homes in the development that do have these, so we could easily make this a reality.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

There haven’t been any issues at all. The concierge and maintenance team are so helpful, and we have a Resident App where you can raise any requests.

Plus, there is someone on the concierge desk 24 hours a day, so there is also a friendly face to chat should anything ever come up. Everyone at Coppermaker Square is incredibly helpful in addressing any day-to-day needs.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

I definitely have no plans to leave anytime soon. I’m happy with my current living situation at Coppermaker Square. As for buying a place, it’s something I might consider in the future, but for now, renting suits my lifestyle and work needs.

The value and convenience of having everything I need on my doorstep, as well as such a lovely community, is unmatched.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

This week, we’re in South London visiting 28-year-old Adam Michael Howie, who lives in a one-bedroom flat in Wandsworth with his girlfriend.

The couple were actually one of the first to move in last year, and have loved living in their apartment building so much that they’re now moving into a larger flat in the same building.

Last week, we visited YouTube star Estée Lalonde at her £3,000 per month two-bedroom flat in Tottenham Hale, North London.

Having moved to London from Canada, she decided to document her new life abroad — and in the process, started filming beauty content.

But for now, here’s what Adam had to say about their renting journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I moved into New Acres in Wandsworth in November 2023, and we were one of the first couples to move in. At the time, I was working as a maritime broker, but four months later, an opportunity came up where I could build my own gin distillery bar within the development, so we’re waiting for the final go-ahead.

During this time, we’ve also opened up 404 Coffee which is a community within New Acres itself. We know everyone – from other tenants to the concierge and staff – we’re always having chats with people and there’s a real sense of family here.

How much do you pay to live here?

It’s £2,400 for a one-bedroom apartment, which works well for me.

What do you get for what you pay?

You can get your flat furnished or unfurnished and have full access to a lovely gym with some great PTs and classes. There’s a 25m heated rooftop pool with outside terraces, which is fantastic in the summer, as well as co-working spaces, pool tables and a grand piano.

Downstairs we have a concierge and parcel room, which comes in super handy for online orders. There are also bigger private dining rooms where you can host dinner parties or events with your friends.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

You get a lot for your money here, I have everything I need, from the pool to the gym. I used to pay £300 for a David Lloyd membership, so having everything included is a steal for me!

It can be so hard to find good places to rent in London and the market is very competitive. Moving here was so simple and I know I can stay here as long as I need so don’t have to worry about finding a new place to live when my contract is up.

Where is your home based and what do you think of the area?

We love Wandsworth. It has its own community and vibe – we used to live in Balham so it’s our first time here, and we’re very happy. You can be in Central London within 30 minutes yet you’re far enough out you can get to Richmond Park and quaint countryside pubs in no time.

I recently opened and run a café in New Acres called 404 – named after my flat number – and have plans to open a bigger space next year. During the week we host a run club for residents and locals where we all meet at the café and run around the local area.

How did you find this property?

We found New Acres on Instagram! We were scrolling, saw the pictures and knew we had to see it in person. We ended up being the first appointment after they opened to the public and within 45 minutes I had signed the agreement.

How have you made it feel like home?

The flat already came with some really nice furnishings so you really don’t have to do much to make it feel like home. Unlike some rental places we can decorate, do some painting or put up shelves. I’ve bought a load of plants so it’s starting to look like an orchard!

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Absolutely – it’s not just about your individual flat but the building as a whole. If I have friends over, we’ll pop downstairs and sit on the sofas or similarly during the summer you’ll relax on the terraces.

It is almost like a big family here, you always bump into other residents and get to know each other and visit each other’s apartments too.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

A few teething issues but mostly to do with the manufacturers of some appliances. Nothing has been too difficult or too much effort to be sorted by the team. We’ve even had a concierge come up to our flat at 11pm on a Friday and help was given straight away.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

My girlfriend and I like the development so much that we’ve actually just signed for a bigger rental apartment here. It would be hard to find another place that has such a beautiful pool and gym in such a great location.

When the development is fully complete, it’s going to have loads of independent businesses on the ground floor and I’m planning on opening a gin distillery with a social space and bar to support the community.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

This week, we’re back in London – Tottenham, to be precise.

Anyone who’s a fan of the OG YouTube days will fondly remember Estée Lalonde, who stole the hearts of millions with her down-to-earth, candid vlogging style.

Having moved to London from Canada, she decided to document her new life abroad — and in the process, started filming beauty content.

Now, she’s founded her own wellbeing brand and has since taken up use of the co-working spaces available in her £3,000 per month block of flats.

Here’s what she had to say about her property journey…

Tell us about yourself!

Hi! My name is Estée Lalonde, I recently turned 34 and I live in North London with my Greek rescue dog named Effie (adopted via Wild at Heart Foundation). I was born and raised in Canada, but I consider myself a Londoner now that I’ve lived here for 15 years.

My career began in the beauty space as a content creator when I was about 20 years old. It was a much different time then!

I was sharing my life with my audience (now over 2 million across social platforms) because I was seeking connection after moving to a new country, but I had no idea it would become my career. I used beauty and self-care as a form of self-expression and have been lucky enough to call this my job ever since.

Over the years, I’ve cultivated a loyal community who have grown with me. I have shared my beauty and skincare recommendations, alongside an open dialogue about my own struggles with anxiety and depression — not claiming to fix all problems with a bit of lipstick or body oil, but sharing how the rituals of doing my makeup or having a hot bath can help to lift me up on a dark day, even if only for a moment.

I founded my own wellbeing brand MIRROR WATER in 2021 (stocked in Liberty and Space NK). It’s a brand for people who like ‘wellness’ but are tired of being told how to be well — because everybody is different, and you need to look within to find those answers.

Water is nature’s mirror, and MIRROR WATER is rooted in self-reflection and looking inward to go outward.

What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there? 

I rent a spacious two-bed apartment in Way of Life’s The Sessile, based in Tottenham Hale. I’ve been happy here for 1.5 years.

How much do you pay to live here?

£3,000 per month.

And what do you get for what you pay?

A two-bed apartment with a balcony, main bathroom with a bathtub (essential for me) and an ensuite shower room. There’s an open-plan living space where the kitchen and dining space flows straight into the living room too, which I love.

Both bedrooms have big built-in wardrobes, which is a godsend for a girl with a lot of clothes! I also get secure parking with electric charging and full access to all the amenities in the building.

Speaking of amenities, this is what drew me to the building in the first place. As the founder of a start-up, I fell in love with the Orangery; a beautiful co-working space available to all residents.

I work from home and don’t have an office, so having a place to work that’s more social is great for my mood. Also, the gym is truly one of the most stunning gyms I’ve ever seen — so gorgeous it actually inspires me to work out!

Also included are well-looked-after communal gardens, a 24-hour concierge, wifi, a rooftop terrace, bike storage, private dining rooms with a back-of-house kitchen for caterers, and a bespoke events programme.

I really appreciate the 24/7 concierge because I get a lot of parcels and don’t always have time to rush to the door when I have a day of back-to-back meetings.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Definitely, there are so many perks of living in The Sessile. In fact, any time my friends come over I go into sales mode and take everyone on a tour.

A great perk of living here is that there are lots of organised workout classes like yoga and HIIT – free to residents!

What do you love to do in your flat?

I’m a serious homebody, so my living space is very important to me. I use my second bedroom as an office — the floor-to-ceiling windows throughout are great for bringing in so much natural light., especially during the colder and darker months.

I spend a lot of time in the bathtub — my ultimate safe space! So a good bathroom with a deep tub is a must for me. I love the brass finishes and detail in both of my bathrooms here.

I also spent a lot of time relaxing on my balcony this summer, especially with a good book and a glass of wine. I’m up pretty high and have a great view of Alexandra Palace in the distance.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

The Sessile is based in Tottenham Hale, a short walk away from Walthamstow Wetlands and Wildlife Reserve, where I love to walk my dog Effie.

The Tube is also a couple minutes’ walk away, meaning I can get to meetings in Central London in 20 minutes and Stansted Airport in 45 minutes. I truly don’t know what I did before the Victoria Line. I’ve been spoiled!

Tottenham is still very much an up-and-coming area, but it has been fun to see new restaurants, fitness studios and cafés slowly popping up around me. A lot of my friends have started buying property in the area because it’s a well-connected area that’s on its way to a glow-up.

How did you find this property?

The rental market is a scary place and I was desperate to find something that felt clean, safe and fresh. I was obsessively googling and scrolling through estate agent’s websites when I finally saw The Sessile. I thought it was too good to be true!

I decided to book a viewing and the entire time I was saying to myself ‘what’s the catch’. 1.5 years on and I can say there have been no hidden fees or negatives that I can think of.

How have you made this place feel like home?

My apartment is mostly neutral, which I love — white walls, a modern white kitchen and wood effect flooring.

I like a clean, minimal space, however I’ve made the flat feel like home with gorgeous rugs, cosy furniture, warm lighting, green plants and lots of candles. The bathrooms both have coloured tiles which add a nice touch of personality too.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

When I moved into the space, it was brand new. I really didn’t feel like I had to do any decorating at all. Of course, I’ve hung up a few pieces of art, but the same rules apply here that apply to any rental property.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Absolutely. In fact, if I didn’t work from home I think I would be comfortable in a one-bedroom flat because they are so spacious. But because of the nature of my work, I do need that extra workspace.

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat?

I say it all the time as a joke, but the only thing The Sessile is missing is a pool. If there was a pool, I swear I would never leave. Wishful thinking!

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

No problems so far! It’s been smooth sailing — touch wood.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

I am in a unique position in the sense that I’m already a homeowner. I purchased a flat in South East London roughly seven years ago and unfortunately, I have been unable to put it on the market due to issues around the cladding in the building.

For personal reasons, I no longer wanted to live in that flat, but when the issues are dealt with, I think I’ll probably sell it and move to the countryside! Who knows though — life can be unpredictable.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

For last week’s sister column, What I Own, we visited Emily Hadley and her husband Kevin at their five-bedroom home by the seaside in Devon.

The couple stuck to the mantra of ‘buying the worst house on the best street,’ transforming it beyond recognition since they moved in in 2015 with bright colours, wall prints, and quirky furnishings galore.

This week, we’re back in London having a nosy around Kyle Halls’s one-bedroom flat in Battersea.

Having moved to the area almost three years ago, he loves the convenience that his current lease offers him, from the state-of-the-art gym to the cinema room.

Here’s what he had to say about his renting situation…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Kyle Halls and I’m 30 years old. I am the director of client success and head of partnerships at CREtech, a digital marketing and conference company.

What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there?  

I rent a studio apartment at Folk Co-Living, Florence Dock. Folk is a communal living property that provides me and other residents a studio apartment as well as access to shared facilities including a gym, fitness studio, co-working space, rooftop terraces, a cinema room and more.

I’ve lived at Folk since April 2024, I’m on a one-year lease currently. 

How much do you pay to live here?

I pay £1,895 per month but Folk offers different pricing options depending on the length of your stay, the size of your studio and whether you live alone. 

And what do you get for what you pay?

With this payment, I receive my studio apartment, which comes equipped with a bed, TV, desk, ensuite and kitchen.

I also receive unlimited access to shared facilities such as a larger state of the art kitchen, gym, fitness studio, cinema room, rooftop terrace, co-working space, onsite shop, games room and weekly events open to residents.

These events vary from fitness classes, movie nights, cooking masterclasses and more. Residents also have access to a 24/7 onsite front desk team. 

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Yes, definitely. 

What do you love to do in your flat? 

I love that Folk has given me the opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills.

I spend a lot of time in the shared spaces and at the community events which provide countless chances to get involved, whether through wellness activities, sustainability initiatives, baking, fitness, or clubs focused on movies, books, or comedy.

We host events that are open to local residents, not just Folk residents. This way, Folk builds a strong sense of community while offering opportunities for both our residents and the local community to learn new skills and enrich their lives. 

Folk emphasises diversity and inclusion, encouraging residents to participate and even host their own events. There’s a real sense of belonging here, and the freedom to be as introverted or extroverted as you like is a huge plus.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

Folk Florence Dock is based in Battersea (a 10-minute walk from Clapham Junction station). I’ve lived in Battersea for over two years now, and it’s the ideal hub, perfectly situated between Richmond and central London.

Richmond is a close, scenic and a beautiful place to visit for the green space of Richmond Park as well as the shops, pubs and other amenities when you need a break from the city life as well as being a place for me to reminisce my hometown in the countryside of Suffolk. The City is equidistant for the hustle of the working and a more energetic social life. 

It offers a great mix of green spaces, bars, restaurants, gyms, sports clubs, and more. The Thames Path is also fantastic for a walk or run at any time of day.

How did you find this property?

My circumstances changed, and I needed to move from a private rental. Given my work in real estate, particularly in commercial, retail, multifamily, and co-living spaces, I was already familiar with the concept of co-living, but Folk exceeded my expectations and I felt it was the perfect fit.

As a digital nomad, the location, team, amenities, and all-inclusive monthly payment (with no upfront deposit required) were key factors.

I also wanted more than just a place to live. I was looking to be part of a community that positively impacts the local area while enriching the lives of residents.

How have you made this place feel like home? 

I have chosen to get really involved with the community and other residents here at Folk which has been the standout aspect in helping me feel at home.

The building has such a strong sense of community and I have made great friends. The staff are always supportive, and the sense of belonging among residents makes living here truly special.

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat? 

While Folk already offers a lot, adding a small wellness spa, sauna, or steam room could further enhance the relaxation and wellness options here. Additionally, offering on-demand paid housekeeping or laundry services would be a convenient option for busy professionals.

I’d love to have a full-sized domestic oven in my own studio. While microwave ovens are convenient, they don’t offer the same efficiency or versatility for cooking.

Having a proper oven would make meal preparation more enjoyable and allow for a greater variety of home-cooked meals. However, I do have access to this via the shared kitchen. 

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

With my lease set to end in April 2025, I have no plans to move unless my career takes me outside of London or the UK.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting?

I tend to keep my decor minimal, however, we do have the freedom to personalise the space.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

The studios are thoughtfully designed with compact yet ample storage, which helps maximise the available space. However, one thing I do miss is a dedicated space for relaxation.

A small sofa or couch would make a big difference, providing a place to unwind that isn’t the bed.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

Thankfully, any issues that arise are promptly handled by the maintenance team. We have easy access to support through a resident app or portal, and the team is always responsive.

This takes a lot of the stress out of managing typical household problems, ensuring that any concerns are quickly addressed. 

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

Last week, we visited Maisy Dewey and Harrison Kent, who moved to London from Philadelphia last year.

As they struggled to find a pet-friendly property that would accommodate their dog, Kipper Von Spot, they took the plunge and rented a houseboat on the Thames.

This week, we’re back on dry land in West London having a nosy around 25-year-old Tia Costell’s two-bedroom flat in Acton, for which she pays £1,250 per month.

Tia had been renting a smaller, more expensive place in Brentford and, feeling deflated at the thought of potentially never getting on the property ladder in London – that is, until she stumbled across a deal that would allow her to put away money to buy her flat after three years of renting.

Here’s what Tia had to say about her renting journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m a hair and makeup artist, and I’m driven by my passion for beauty and my faith in Jesus. My work is about more than just appearance – it’s about bringing light and positivity to others.

How much do you pay to live here?

£1,250 per month in rent (or around £1,500 including bills).

And what do you get for what you pay?

A two-bedroom apartment at SO Flexi Acton measuring 700 square feet. It’s a three-year contract and it’s under the London Living Rent scheme, funded by the Mayor, which means that I get a reduced rent price so I can put more money away to save for a deposit.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

I honestly cried when I moved into the apartment. For the first time in my life, I have a place that I can afford to live in, and a realistic plan to get on the property ladder at the end of my tenancy.

I’m saving £250 on rent alone each month compared to my last flat – and this is a bigger place! The money is going straight into my savings account to build up my deposit. I could never have saved that kind of money living in my old flat in Brentford.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

Within Acton Park Conservation Area, SO Flexi Acton is surrounded by leafy streets, green open spaces, and historic architecture. On the nearby high street there are shops, cafes and restaurants.

There’s also great transport links – there’s actually eight stations altogether, on Underground and Overground lines, and national rail too. I can get into central London within about half an hour, which is great.

How did you find this property?

I found it online – I loved the area and the property as a whole; they’ve really created a beautiful quiet space in London. It just feels nice and residential.

How have you made this place feel like home? What’s your interior design inspiration?

I absolutely love to decorate, and furnishing was literally a dream for me. I love the Scandi style so the white walls are a perfect canvas for me and I’ve been able hang things up on the wall too.

What’s your favourite room and why?

The open-plan living room/kitchen. I love to host so this space just means everything. My four-seater table extends to a 10 which is excellent for having my family and friends round. I love how much light comes in.

What do you love to do in your flat?

I absolutely love to host Bible studies, have friends and family over for dinner parties, and do fun activities like painting.

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat?

There’s nothing that immediately stands out, maybe just parking with the property, but to be honest it’s not been an issue. The actual flat itself is more than I could ever thought or imagined. I’m beyond thankful that I get to call this place home.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Being a hair and makeup artist means I have a lot of kit so the fact I have so much storage space and the extra bedroom has been really useful.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

No, I love it.

Do you have any plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

The purpose of LLR is to purchase a flat at the end of the tenancy agreement with a deposit made up from the savings.

My minimum 5% deposit goal is £9,000, so I agreed with SO Resi to save £3,000 each year – that’s really achievable for me, and I plan to go over and above that target, so I hopefully have a bigger deposit when the time comes to buy.

I have agreed to check in with SO Resi each year to make sure that I am still on track with my savings. With London Living Rent, you have to demonstrate that you can’t afford to buy the property now but would be able to in a few years.

I knew that my earnings made me mortgage-eligible, but I didn’t have enough savings to buy with Shared Ownership, so London Living Rent would help me get into a financial position to put down a deposit.

I was slightly concerned that being self-employed would affect my eligibility, particularly as I am renting by myself, but that wasn’t the case at all.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

For last week’s sister column, What I Own, we looked back on a previous visit to Brighton, where 36-year-old Biro Florin bought his £1million townhouse outright in 2023.

This week, we’re back in London visiting Maisy Dewey and Harrison Kent, who moved from Philadelphia last year.

As they struggled to find a pet-friendly property that would accommodate their fluffy friend, Kipper Von Spot, they took the plunge and rented a houseboat on the Thames.

Here’s what Maisy had to say about their renting journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I was born in Philadelphia and grew up in New Jersey with my three sisters. My love for art and design took me to The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where I studied graphic design and where I met my fiancé, Harrison Kent.

Toward the end of my time at SCAD, I started posting on TikTok just for fun, sharing little bits of my day-to-day life (@maisydewey). After graduating, I started a job at Anthropologie’s home office, where I worked in print design for two years.

During that time Harrison and I got my dream dog, Kipper Von Spot, who quickly became a star on my TikTok. In 2023, Harrison and I got engaged and moved to London, where Harrison is completing his Masters in Furniture Design at Kingston University.

I’m still working as a graphic designer in the fashion industry and continuing to share my life on social media! 

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

We’re on the River Thames in Central London. We’re very fortunate to be centrally located while still having a bit of an oasis on the dock. We also have easy access to public transportation.

When did you move in?

November of 2023.

How much do you pay in rent and bills?

Along with £1,750 in rent each month, we pay for electricity; this bill varies greatly depending on the season but is typically around £40 per month.

To save for our deposit, which cost us £2,019, we put on kerbside sales for a month prior to our move to London. We sold everything aside from our essentials which we brought with us.

Where did you live before this?

We were renting a townhome in the centre of Philadelphia – which was very different to a boat!

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

We were new to London and having difficulty finding an affordable and dog-friendly flat to rent.

A letting agent called us to tell us a viewing we had scheduled for later that day had been cancelled, though he had another option for us to see but we would need to keep an open mind.

We honestly viewed the boat mostly out of curiosity, but we were very impressed by the interior, the location, the size and the price!

How have you made the property feel like home? What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

Having a space that feels like home is very important to Harrison and me. As we are both designers, we’re constantly thinking of ways to improve our space. 

Our initial strategy for bringing our personalities to the boat’s interior has been adding some of the art we have collected over the years.

Since Harrison is a furniture designer, he has built a renter-friendly countertop add-on in the kitchen – we have also just added a chair from his first furniture design exhibition.

In the future we hope to add more touches of contemporary and antique furnishings.

What’s your favourite room and why?

The roof! This is basically like our 65-foot deck, and we spend as much time up there as possible. It’s a huge bonus of the boat to have so much outdoor space. We love enjoying the views on warm days.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes! It’s certainly not as spacious as we have had in the past, but it’s plenty of room for the three of us. There’s also much more storage than you might expect, so it’s worked out as the most efficient use of space we’ve ever had.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Because of the nature of the location, we do see a bit of wildlife right on our doorstep. We’ve even had birds leave headless eels for us to find so had to clean that up.

Other than that, I would say it’s more ‘inconvenience’ than problems. For example, we have to fill our water tank in order to have water on the boat, be aware of the temperature in the winter to look out for frozen pipes, and scrub the deck every so often. None of these chores really bother us though – we think it’s worth it.

What are your plans for the future, in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long-term?

We hope to stay living aboard the boat for as long as possible. We’re very happy here. 

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

It’s the weekend – so naturally, it’s time to chat all things property.

While our weekly property series What I Rent/What I Own is taking a short break this week, we thought we’d take the opportunity to look back at a few of our favourites over the years.

From houseboats to teeny tiny apartments, we’ve certainly covered extensive ground when it comes to nosying around various rented and mortgaged properties.

So, without further ado, here’s a round-up of (just a few) stand-out columns from the What I Rent/What I Own Hall of Fame.

What I Rent: Alaina, $650 a month for an 80 sq ft studio apartment in Manhattan, New York

In October 2022, we went across the pond to the US – midtown in New York City, to be specific.

Here, Alaina, who works at a fashion agency, rents a studio apartment that has just 80 sq ft of space.

She moved to the city in 2021 for work, having previously lived in Los Angeles and hailing from St Louis, Missouri.

‘I actually found this apartment on Street Easy, which is a shock for most because it’s one of the more expensive apartment apps,’ she said at the time.

‘I wanted to give it a try to have more freedom to travel and explore New York City as a young 20-something year old.’

What I Rent: Tide, £750 a month for a one-bedroom flat in Leith, Scotland

In August 2022, we featured Tide at her £750 one-bedroom flat up in Leith in Edinburgh, Scotland.

She’d moved to the city six months prior on a whim, and hoped that her colourful interior design choices came together as ‘cute and eclectic.’ We certainly thought – and still think! – so anyway.

‘My landlord is super accommodating and supportive of me making this place a home – so no problems there,’ Tide said of her experience. ‘I’ve asked if I can drill holes to put decor up and he’s all for it… as long as it’s done respectfully, of course.’

Before she moved, she’d been paying £1,000 per month for a studio flat in London, and so was relishing the newfound space.

‘Coming from London where I paid bank for a compact studio, I feel almost overwhelmed (in a good way) with having more than one room,’ she noted.

‘I have to remind myself that I don’t have to be cooped up in my bedroom and that I actually have a whole other room I can live in. Crazy, huh?’

What I Own: We bought a houseboat for £125,000 and joined a mooring community in Bermondsey

It wasn’t too long ago, but our visit to Rachael and Euan’s houseboat in London back in April was joyous.

They originally bought it for £125,000, and when we visited them, they were stationed in Bermondsey, South London, on a mooring that houses 40 other boats.

‘It felt like home pretty much straight away; we haven’t had to do much to it beyond painting the walls and building my studio,’ Rachael noted.

‘Having a space to sit outside and grow plants in the summer is also what feels like home to me.

‘I couldn’t imagine not living on the water, and we are very happy with the barge, so I can see us staying for the long term.’

What I Own: ‘We live on a £5million Cheshire farm and didn’t need a deposit’

Then, in November 2023, we met Mike – who had overseen the builds of four sustainable, carbon-neutral residential homes in Cheshire, which he found listed for sale in Horse and Hound magazine.

Mike was living on-site in one of these properties – which are designed to be as energy-efficient as possible – after securing a £1.45m development finance loan in 2020 and completing the build, and he sold the other three for £1.5m each.

He said: ‘As we developed the property, no deposit was required. We paid for the development of the house using the profits from building and selling other projects that we have built. Together – the mortgage lender – provided £1.45m worth of development finance, which we put towards the development of the site.

‘We set out to build something “exclusive by design, inclusive by nature” as we like to say. We want people to understand that building sustainably doesn’t mean you have to give up on luxury.

‘We are both inspired by nature and so the house was designed to fit in with the natural world. The whole place feels like home.’

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

For last week’s sister column, What I Own, we visited Anna and Paul Moynihan’s £590,000 three-bedroom home in Tooting, South London.

Since buying it five years ago, they’ve transformed it into a family space to share with their two young children – and have found a strong local community in the process.

This week, we’re in Wiltshire visiting Camilla Collins, who swapped her life in North London for the peace and quiet of the countryside.

Having found a property that’s the same size as her home in London, she’s now renting that out for double what she pays in Kingsdown.

Here’s what she had to say about her renting journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Camilla, a confidence and lifestyle coach published author and owner of  makeup agencies CJC Hair and Makeup and Glitter & Glo. I’m a born and raised London girl but in 2023 I decided to upsticks with my two cocker spaniels, Arthur and Bibi, in search of more peace, calm, and space in the countryside.  

I put my house in North London up for rent in January and in February (Valentine’s Day) we moved into our new home just 15 minutes from Bath.

I originally bought my London house in September 2019 for £930,000, and the Zoopla estimate now comes in at around £1.13 million.

How much do you pay to live here?

I pay £1,800 in rent (I got it down from £2,000 by offering to pay 12 months upfront). As for bills, my water is currently at £94 per month.

As it’s a listed property with no double glazing it doesn’t keep the heat in – so the gas and electricity bills are £500-£600 a month in the winter and around £150 in the summer.

I’ve had to invest in a powerful heater which I literally sat in front of last winter. This year, I’m going to try and get something to cover the windows to see if I can keep the heat in.

And what do you get for what you pay?

A gorgeous Grade II listed property in Kingsdown with the most stunning views. It’s a quirky characterful property laid out across four levels.

I have three bedrooms, three bathrooms (previously four bedrooms but they changed one bedroom into an additional bathroom) and a beautiful little garden. 

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

I feel it’s an amazing deal! My property is the same size as mine in North London which I rent out for double what I pay here, and I have a much better quality of life.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

It’s based in Kingsdown and has the most spectacular views. I’m a short walk from a few shops in the village of Box and surrounded by plenty of beautiful walks.

I’m just a 15-minute drive from Bath and have easy access to Wales and the coast for exploring and adventures. I also found a wonderful charity called Jamie’s Farm nearby where I volunteer each week.

How did you find this property?

My criteria was anywhere between London and Bristol as I have a friend in Bath, another in Bristol, and family in the Cotswolds.

My Rightmove property search took me to Oxford, Chippenham and Stroud and I nearly gave up when I couldn’t find anything suitable, but thankfully found this gorgeous property just before I gave up and snapped it up there and then.

How have you made this place feel like home? 

I used a full packing and moving service so I have all my furniture and items from my London property here which made it feel like home.

The property has a lot of character which I love, and there are so many places to explore either on foot from my front door or a traffic-free car ride away from the mountains of Wales or the coast.

I travel a lot for work and I’m back in London at least a couple of times a month. My new home is the perfect little haven and retreat to come back to rest and reset.

I’ve also been making an effort to attend social and networking events and have cultivated a lovely network in Bath and Bristol – I’m even hosting two of my own coaching events here this autumn. The community at Jamie’s Farm is so lovely and they really made me feel so welcome and supported when I first moved here.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

I’ve assumed that with a rental property you really just take it as it is. I mainly used the nails that were already on the wall to hang larger artwork and then Command strips for others.

I put in a request to fix a TV to the wall which my landlord approved so long as it was put right when I left, although I didn’t bother in the end and found an alternative.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

Yes, plenty of space! In fact, too much of it, and I’ll be looking to downsize a little next year.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

It’s an old property so there have been a few issues with the odd leak and heating, but all have been dealt with by the agents. It’s actually quite nice to be in a rented property and have someone else deal with it!

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

Yes, I’ll be looking to downsize next year. I thought about moving further out but I’ve got such great transport links back into London from here that I feel I would make life harder moving further out. I’ve also fallen in love with this area.

Although I was going to continue renting, I’ve also got my eye out for properties to buy. I would never sell my London home as it fetches good rent so this would be an additional property and only if the numbers make sense.

I recently viewed a gorgeous cottage with potential for an Airbnb as well, but it needed quite a lot of work so I’m still looking… we shall see what the new year brings.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

For last week’s sister column, What I Own, we visited 25-year-old Liv Conlon at her flat in Glasgow. Having bought her first home out in Marbella when she was 18, in 2022 she decided to use the money from her two businesses to invest in another.

This time around, we’re back in the Big Smoke having a nosy around Sandro Farmhouse’s one-bedroom flat in Stratford, East London.

In 2022, Sandro famously competed on The Great British Bake Off, making it to second place. Now, together with his partner and their two dogs, Pablo and Treacle, he’s found the perfect work-from-home space in the area he’s lived his whole life.

Here’s what he had to say about his renting journey…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Sandro Farmhouse and I’m an entrepreneur, content creator, baker and most recently, an author having just launched my first cookbook ‘Good Vibes Baking.’ I had the amazing opportunity to be a finalist on The Great British Bake Off which changed my life!

How much do you pay to live here?

Our rent is £2,800 per month for our one-bedroom apartment. We live at Coppermaker Square, a build-to-rent neighbourhood in Stratford, so this helpfully includes Wi-Fi and a gym for both of us, as well as access to all other amenities and monthly resident events.

And what do you get for what you pay?

I feel as though we get a lot out of it. There’s a lot of added value that comes with living in a community like Coppermaker Square. Not only do we have a beautiful apartment, but we also have access to so many other amenities. There’s a spa area, a 25-metre pool, steam and sauna rooms and my favourite – a hot tub!

Downstairs there is a fully equipped gym, spin, and Pilates studios, which includes a programme of classes that are also all included in our rent.

We also have access to a roof garden, lounge, co-working area with all-day free coffee, and exclusive resident events which are always great. Recently Coppermaker Square has also launched a new pet wash facility, which has been useful post-walk.

The setup is perfect for someone like me who works from home. It means I don’t have to just stay at home to work, I can change it up and leave the kitchen to do some paperwork in the co-working area or lounge.

I can also charge up my social battery by playing a game of pool with fellow residents or unwind at the spa after a long day.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

We definitely think it’s a good deal! Everything is such high quality and has provided such a seamless rental experience for us – not to mention we have the underground at our doorstep with easy and quick access to central London.

Having Westfield Stratford City an elevator ride away is also so handy! It makes it super easy to go out to eat or grab a last-minute outfit.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

Our home is located in Stratford, basically right above Westfield Stratford City. The area is great, it is well connected with plenty of green space. I grew up here in East London, so living back here and watching the area evolve makes it feel special to be a part of.

There are so many great local restaurants and cafés around, and with Westfield on our doorstep, it makes it a convenient and fabulous place to live. I’ve been here my whole life, so it is where I feel the safest and most inspired.

Stratford is so lively and there’s always something happening. Especially now with things like the upcoming launch of hotspots like Sadler’s Wells East and V&A, it feels like a true creative hub, and we love living here.

How did you find this property?

I was invited to attend an event at Coppermaker Square when it first launched and instantly fell in love with it. The atmosphere and community really sold it to us.

How have you made this place feel like home?

We opted to move into an unfurnished apartment which meant we could make the space our own, which is so rare when you move into a rental. Plus everything feels so fresh, modern, and new!

We’re still adding new touches all the time but have loved how we were able to make the place perfect for my needs as a content creator. I had to fit in three ovens, two fridges and a huge island for all my cake making. The beautiful interiors and natural lighting are great for shoots too.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

Unlike a lot of other rentals, we can make any changes we want, which is a benefit of living in a build-to-rent. We have been able to completely change the kitchen so I can best create and do my job.

Coppermaker Square has not only allowed us to make the changes but encourages everyone to make their home their own.

There’s an on-site maintenance team, so when you move in you get all the help you need whether it be painting a wall or hanging a shelf.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes! The space is perfect and ideal for a couple, especially in London. All the green spaces on site and the roof terrace really help too, and you’re a quick walk from the Canals and Olympic Park if you need more wide-open spaces.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

We haven’t dealt with any problems – it has been really just wonderful to live here. There is an onsite concierge and maintenance team, so getting any day-to-day needs met is truly so easy and the staff are incredibly helpful.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

We do have plans to move again in the distant future (abroad) but for now, this is very much home.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series that explores what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

For last week’s sister column, What I Own, we visited 37-year-old Hazel Waite and Simon McNair, who have made their one-bedroom Kidbrooke flat their own with leafy plants, colourful wall prints and eclectic trinkets.

This week, we’re visiting 23-year-old content creator Maddie Borge, who moved from Norway to start her dream life in central London five years ago.

Now renting an apartment with her boyfriend in Zone 1, she’s in love with the freedom and safety she’s been afforded by her area.

And in sharing lifestyle content on her socials, she’s amassed over 228K followers on TikTok, where she inspires her followers with nifty renter-friendly DIY hacks.

Here’s what she had to say about her renting situation…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m a 23-year-old Norwegian living in London, posting lifestyle videos on social media for a living.

I love interior design, DIY projects, travelling and exploring all London has to offer – all of which I document on my Instagram, TikTok and YouTube accounts. 

How much do you pay to live here?

My rent is £2,450 per month, which I split with my boyfriend. 

And what do you get for what you pay?

A charming 55-square meter, one bed maisonette, moments away from the best restaurants, cafes and shops central London has to offer. 

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Definitely. We have so much space in such a great location. 

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

Central London (Zone 1). I love living in the middle of everything. I can walk almost everywhere, there are so many great places to eat, and always things to do. I’m just a short 15 minutes from Regents Park.

The flat is also away from the busiest streets, so it’s nice and quiet in the evenings and I always feel very safe. 

How did you find this property?

Rightmove! I saw the apartment on the site, asked to tour it the next day and put in an offer later that evening. 

How have you made this place feel like home? 

The flat came unfurnished, so we’ve been able to bring in all our own furniture. It has some really charming features like Georgian windows, ceiling cornices and blue kitchen tiles.

I’ve tried to choose pieces that play into those features, while also incorporating Scandinavian colours and minimalism. 

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

As someone who loves interior design, but has been renting for the past five years, I’ve had to learn a few tips and tricks on how to make fully reversible, renter-friendly changes.

I have used command strips to hang wall art, changed curtains, put up window film, and wrapped our kitchen shelves in contact paper, among other things. All these changes help make the flat feel more homely, and can be easily removed when we move out.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

Definitely. The flat is very cleverly designed. We have closets and cupboards for outerwear, suitcases, clothes and linens/towels.

The bedroom is the biggest room in the flat, so we also decided to convert part of the room into a home office, which has been helpful for WFH.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

We’ve had to have the washing machine and microwave replaced since moving in. We’re lucky to have a great property management team, and whenever we report a problem, they’re on it the next day. It’s really great. 

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

I’m incredibly happy and settled at the moment. Having moved five times over the past five years of living in London, you realise how costly and stressful moving is – especially with the current state of the rental market.

We signed a multi-year lease on this apartment, and we’re hoping to stay until we’ll eventually be able to buy. 

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series that explores what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

For last week’s adjacent property, What I Own, we visited Mok O’Keeffe in rural Wales. Together with his husband, Mok owns a ‘baby castle’ in the idyllic Brecon Beacons – and they’ve never felt more at home.

This week, we’re visiting 29-year-old Leila Davis and her wife Fleur in leafy South East London. Since moving in July 2019, they’ve transformed a tiny flat with next to no storage into a colourful dopamine dream, affectionately referred to as Casa de Modelei.

They decided on the name after their friend said it in passing, and it stuck – her wife’s nickname is Modes, she calls Leila Lei, and voilà.

Here’s what Leila had to say about their renting situation…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Leila Davis, also known by my alias Cutie Whippingham, and I live with my wife Fleur and our dog, Bammy.

I’m a queer professional pole dancer, instructor, model, movement coach, brand inclusion consultant, and founder of Blackstage – a group for Black people and people of colour (BPOC) of all bodies and abilities, especially those who are queer, trans, non-binary and/or sex workers.

I have been pole dancing for nearly 10 years, having originally trained in contemporary dance and ballet at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance English, National Ballet and spearheading the Pole Society at the University of Sussex, where my drive for equality within the sector began.

I am extremely passionate about race, queerness and their intersection, focusing on proving that there’s something in dance for everyone.

My mission is to create creative and ethical work opportunities and community spaces for pole dancers of colour, breaking the barriers of shame.

How much do you pay to live here? 

£1,150 PCM.

And what do you get for what you pay? 

A well-decorated one-bed flat with a separate kitchen and new, huge windows, tall ceilings, new appliances and excellent water pressure.

Do you feel like you have a good deal? 

Absolutely. It’s around that for just one room locally. One-beds are typically around £1,700 and those decorated to this standard barely exist for under £2,000 per month.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

Catford in SE London! I love it as I grew up here, and our parents live 15-20 mins in either direction. We live in close proximity to loads of parks and green spaces, and the transport connections are excellent!

How did you find this property? 

I found it on Rightmove and it only had one picture of the corner of the kitchen before it was complete.

We were the first to view and we took it on the spot because it was so nice. I was captivated by the huge windows with so much natural light and crazy tall ceilings.

How have you made this place feel like home? 

Plants, colourful furnishings, mid-century furniture, painted detail on the bedroom wall, up-cycled furniture, cute ceramics and personal pictures.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

This is the first place we’ve rented outside of uni but during uni, I always decorated my rooms so I was very used to decorating rented spaces.

We are both very creative and our styles complement each other so decorating has been fun. The only thing we struggle with is storage. Our landlord loves what we’ve done with the place and compliments our stylistic choices.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

Never! We only have one cupboard for storage in the whole flat and everything is bursting at the seams.

I have to keep my pole equipment at the studio, half our wardrobe in suitcases in my mum’s loft, and other bits in my car boot. It’s really difficult sometimes.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

Our local council only allows black refuse sacks outside the homes, which get torn apart by crows and foxes, so we often deal with litter scattered all along our street, sometimes faeces and rotten milk splattered up our front door and doorstep. It often seeps into our carpeted hallway.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place? 

We would both love to move but sadly the price of a deposit to buy even a one-bed flat would take at least 41.7 years for us to save for.

Equally, we’d love to rent a two-bed so that we could have an office to WFH, but it is extremely unaffordable for us at the moment.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series that explores what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

Last week, we chatted to 43-year-old Lorelei Mathias who owns her mermaid-themed one-bed in Brighton. Lorelei uses this as her writing retreat, a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of East London, where her main residence is.

This week, we’re in Greenford, North West London, having a nosy around Anil Vaswani’s apartment. Living in a waterfront neighbourhood, Anil has connected with a community through the events hosted by his building, from cinema nights to gym sessions.

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Anil Vaswani and I currently work as a project manager at a payment technology firm. I live on my own at Greenford Quay, having moved to the area over a year ago after separating from my wife. My young son comes to stay with me two times a week. 

How much do you pay to live here?

£1,925.

And what do you get for what you pay?

I’m in a one-bedroom flat, which includes a double bedroom, en-suite bathroom, kitchen and lounge.

On top of this, I get access to all of the amenities included within my rental price – including private dining spaces, a resident’s gym, an on-site movie theatre and co-working spaces.

I’m also able to access the integrated facilities in the wider Greenford Quay development including BBQ areas and landscaped gardens, which have elevated my family’s lifestyle. My parents live just around the corner, so it’s great to be able to host them in the communal spaces. 

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

I do feel as though I get value for money. The cost of signing up for the range of amenities I get access to, such as the gym and co-working spaces individually would definitely outweigh the cost which is included in my rent. 

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

I’ve always lived in and around North West London – and grew up down the road in Sudbury Town, but I do have some extended family who live in both Malaysia and the Philippines.

I love the area and have met some great people and made lifelong friends. I love Greenford because it is my home and the huge amount of green space around the development allows me to take advantage of the local beauty of the area when hosting family and friends.

In addition, the proximity to transport links has made it easier to commute to work.  

How did you find this property?

My interest in Greenford Quay started when I would walk past the development daily during my lunch breaks, however, it was my divorce that acted as a catalyst for seeking a fresh start.

The positive energy the development emanated from both the residents and the onsite team further fuelled my decision to make it my new home. 

How have you made this place feel like home? 

The extensive array of facilities has meant that I have been able to enjoy hosting BBQs and dinners for friends and family. I also regularly attend the community events in the building, such as cinema events or food trucks along the canal.

This has allowed me to meet new people which was really helpful for me as I was making a fresh start in life when I moved in. I’ve met a really diverse and interesting group of people since joining the community. 

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

The beauty of Greenford Quay is that the flat comes mostly furnished, which made it easy when I moved in. With this being said, I do have the option to make the space my own, decorating it myself if I want to. 

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

Inside, I definitely have enough space for me and my young son and having access to the wider amenities and outdoor spaces means that I never feel short on space or cooped in. 

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

There are very rarely issues within my flat and if the case does ever arise the onsite team and concierge are often quick to resolve them.

I regard some of the onsite team as friends due to their friendly nature, and they are always accommodating of me and my son’s needs. 

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

It has been over a year since I moved into Greenford Quay, and I’m now nice and settled.

I do have the aspiration to buy one day, however, the convenience of a build-to-rent development such as this works well for me at the moment, as I’m close to my parents, wider family, and son.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series that explores what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

Last week, we visited Michele Theil in Ware, who left London in 2022 for the green pastures of Hertfordshire. Though she rents her two-bedroom flat by herself, she’s considering moving in with a friend to save money, and dreams of buying one day.

This week, we’re in Harlesden in North West London, taking a peek at co-workers Niamh Finn and Abbie Morris’s two-bedroom flat.

The pair both work for a removals company, and decided to move in together for a fresh start; Niamh was previously living with her family, while Abbie was with an ex-partner.

Here’s what they had to say about their renting situation…

Tell us about yourself – how old are you, what do you do for work, and where are you based?

Niamh: I’m 24, I was born and raised in West London, and I work for Anthony Ward Thomas Removals based in Park Royal.

Abbie: I’m 27, I moved to London from Durham eight years ago to study. I also work at Anthony Ward Thomas Removals with Niamh, which is where we met.

Whereabouts is your property? What do you think of the area?

Niamh: Our flat is in Harlesden and we love the local area. There’s a shop for everything – we’re about a 10 minute walk from the high street.

Abbie: The area is great and we also have good links to transport. The tube station is about 10 minutes away which is the Bakerloo Line and Overground, so we can get around easily!

When did you move in?

Niamh: We moved in December 2022.

How much was your deposit?

Niamh: Our deposit was five weeks’ rent so was around £900 each.

What is the monthly cost of living here now; both rent and bills?

Niamh: Rent is £775 each and bills add up to around £150 each so altogether it’s £1,850.

How did you save up for your deposit?

Niamh: I am a terrible saver but luckily we got a generous Christmas bonus from work which covered my deposit.

Abbie: I would put money into my savings account each month but I unexpectedly had to leave my previous flat, so my parents helped with some of my deposit and I paid them back once I received my deposit from the old place.

Where did you live before this – were you renting or living with family?

Niamh: I lived with my mum, dad and brother before in Shepherds Bush.

Abbie: I was living up the road in Wembley before this with my ex-partner.

How did you find this property? What made you choose it?

Niamh: We found the property online via Rightmove. We chose it because it was a 15-minute walk into work which is super convenient and saves on travel. The flat is open planned with a huge balcony and it’s also split level which we love!

Abbie: The flat was one of the nicest and most affordable we had seen when searching. I think the split level and having our own bathrooms really sold it for us!

How have you made the property feel like home?

Niamh: We fully decorated the flat ourselves which means we picked furniture that matched our style and makes the place feel cosy and cute!

Abbie: Since the flat came unfurnished it was easier for us to make it feel like ‘ours.’ I think once we were settled with our furniture and personal things we really did just feel right at home.

What’s the inspiration for your interior decor style?

Niamh: The living room and downstairs is a joint effort as that;s where we both spend the most time. We have gone for ‘pops of pink’ around the flat with cushions, throws, candles and ornaments – this was inspired from buying a cushion cover in pink and then we were obsessed!

My room is inspired by comfort and space, so I went for colours that made the room look big and bright with a lot of white furniture. I managed to get my wardrobe and bedside table from work as a customer was getting rid of them.

Abbie: Niamh and I have a similar style and like pretty much the same things so when it came to decorating the living room we were on the same page about what we wanted!

I had my bedroom furniture from the previous flat, however I decided to get some coloured canvases for the wall to give the room some colour as my furniture is dark.

What’s your favourite room and why?

Niamh: My favourite room is the living room because it’s cosy with a warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s also home to our favourite plant we have named Kevin, Kev for short.

Abbie: I would also say my favourite room is the open plan living room/kitchen. It’s very cosy and relaxing especially after a long day at work! We have made lots of memories with friends in the downstairs area and balcony.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Niamh: Yes! Of course, you can never have too much storage space but we make the most out of the space under the stairs and we have a storage cupboard too which helps.

Abbie: Definitely, the flat is very spacious! We enjoy hosting friends and family in our flat.

Are there any problems with the property that you have to deal with?

Niamh: Nothing out of the ordinary, and our workplace have a property services team who have helped with general maintenance and putting up our blinds!

What are your plans for the future in terms of housing? Do you plan to stay here long term?

Niamh: Our lease was for 18 months which was due to be up in June 2024 but we have just extended our lease for another two years.

Shall we take a look around?

Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series that explores what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

Last week, the Essex House Dolly took us round her £1,400 per month Essex rental. Inundated with pink and silver decor, it exuded IRL Barbie dreamhouse vibes – and shout out to the giraffe-themed room, too.

This week, we’re in Hertfordshire chatting to Michele Theil, a charity press officer and freelance journalist.

Michele left London in 2022 for the green pastures of this popular home county. Though she rents her two-bedroom flat by herself, she’s considering moving in with a friend to save money but dreams of buying one day.

Here’s what she had to say about her renting situation…

Tell us about yourself!

I’m 25 and I moved to the UK when I was 15. I used to live in London but moved to Hertfordshire in 2022.

I used to live with my partner but we split up so I stayed in my flat. I work as a press officer for a charity and do freelance journalism. 

How much do you pay to live here?

£1,225 per month.

And what do you get for what you pay?

One big bedroom, one small spare room (more of an office room), a bathroom, a kitchen and large living room, and a hallway. No outdoor space.

My favourite corner of my living room is where my record player and magazines sit and the other bookshelf where my giant plant (named Hamilton), a bust of Homer (which I got in the Lanes in Brighton), and an award declaring my ‘Outstanding Commitment’ to student journalism back at university along with LOADS of books.

I always feel a sense of peace and happiness when I look at these spaces because they’re just filled with everything I love and care about and enjoy looking at.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

I do, yes, compared to many other places in the area. For the space I have, it’s a good price and compared to London.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

Ware in Hertfordshire. I really like the area – there are loads of charity shops, a few great pubs, and a really good coffee shop.

I’m also close to two really big supermarkets, everything is really walkable and it’s quiet most of the time which is nice. I also live across from a GP so it makes it easy to go to appointments.

How did you find this property?

On Rightmove!

How have you made this place feel like home? 

It was unfurnished when I moved in so all of the furniture is mine. I’ve put artwork on the wall and trinkets on every surface. My living room is filled with plants and books, and a gorgeous green sofa.

You might think the Van Gogh painting is Starry Night but it’s actually Cafe Terrace at Night. Both of the prints were bought in Afflecks, in Manchester, which is an amazing place.

Underneath both these prints is a sketch of my dad. I didn’t do it – I have no artistic ability. I grew up in Hong Kong and there was an artist there who would do sketches of various parts of the city and publish them into books.

She did one called Sketches of Sai Kung, which is the name of the town I lived in, and did a sketch of my dad and his restaurant because he was a bit of a local celebrity for owning a steak house in a tiny Chinese fishing village. The artist gave the original sketch to my dad and I brought it here so I could remember him by.

I also have a lot of photos in the house, of friends and my dad in particular. He passed away 6 years ago so I like to see photos of him and make sure I don’t forget what he looks like.

I always dreamed of having a house filled with pictures of the people I loved, just like my house was growing up.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

Not really, my landlord has said it’s fine to hang pictures and I plan to just repaint/fill in any holes when I move in. In terms of decorating, I always go with the principle of temporary and replaceable.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

I don’t have much storage space in the flat itself and because I live in a loft apartment with slanted ceilings, it’s hard to get furniture that fits against the walls properly.

But generally, yes. There’s lots of space to move around so long as it’s configured right.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

The aforementioned slanted ceilings are a bit of a nuisance, and there are slanted windows which are old and often not easy to open.

The doors are also cheaply made/installed so they’re not the best and the carpet is coming up by the doorjambs. It can get quite cold despite having a good energy rating.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

I have an 18-month lease so I don’t have plans on moving until closer to the end of my contract which is mid next year.

I am considering moving in with a friend to save some money but this is not set in stone – especially because I love my flat so much. I would like to buy a place in the future but would have to save a lot of money first.

Shall we take a look around?

Last week, we explored Angela Spring’s studio apartment in Croydon, South London. Joining a like-minded community of people, her living space comes complete with all the mod-cons, from a communal reading area to a rooftop garden.

This week, we’re in Essex, visiting Nicki Rodriguez – also known as the Essex House Dolly.

After leaving a relationship behind her almost three years ago, she started a new life with her son, downsizing from a three-bedroom to a two-bedroom house.

Though she rents, her landlady has happily accommodated all the changes she’s made to transform this property into the dream house she always wanted.

Here’s what she had to say about her renting situation…

Tell us about yourself!

I am 47, a mother of two, and the Essex House Dolly! I go into homes and declutter, reorganise, interior, style and maintain properties.

I also help families running their day-to-day lives and those have been in domestic abuse relationships.

How much do you pay to live here?

£1,400 per month.

And what do you get for what you pay?

I rent a detached house. It consists of two bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, lounge, dining room and utility room with WC. I also have a courtyard-style garden and drive. 

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Yes, massively – especially with how rents have rocketed. The house is also double glazed with great insulation so I do not experience high bills. I also have no grass, so maintenance outside is a minimum – it’s just hedges and my plant pots that I keep on top of. 

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area? 

I’m in Ongar, in Essex, and absolutely love the area. Low crime rate, my work is based nearby and my son is able to loan a horse at a local riding school.

Ongar is a very pretty town – which consists of a few pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and nail shops! We do have a nearby Tesco and Sainsbury’s though, which is great.

How did you find this property?

I initially found the property on Rightmove but then a friend of mine who owns a letting agent contacted me to say they’d just put a house on the market and knew I was looking. He’d mentioned me to the landlady and it was the house I’d originally seen! 

How have you made this place feel like home? 

I redecorated the entire house in white (before it was a combination of yellow and cream) and put grey carpets in. I also added curtains to make the rooms cosy and for privacy. 

I made over the spiral staircase by painting it and adding new grey carpet steps, vinyl-wrapped some of the kitchen cabinets, put a new flooring in the bathroom of a vinyl sticker, painted all the doors and added new handles, added new light fixtures and repainted the fitted wardrobes plus added new handles.

I then worked my magic in the garden by painting the shed and fences, and spray painting the garden furniture. 

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits? 

Not at all, as I’m only adding value to the property. My landlady has been delighted with what I’ve done. The transformation has been amazing and so rewarding – I’ve done it all by myself bar the electrics and carpet fitting. 

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

As it’s only my son and I now, the house suits us perfectly. I also love that I downsized when I moved here, so my home is clutter free!

I lived in a three-storey, three-bedroom house before so I had to start from scratch moving here as none of my furniture (bar a sofa) fitted.

Here's what Nikki's house looked like before

But I found it a great cleansing exercise as I was starting a fresh new chapter of my life. I made everything new and to my taste.

I’ve always wanted a Barbie pink-style home with lots of bling and now I have just that! My son however wouldn’t let me touch his room so he has a giraffe-themed bedroom. 

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

I have a great relationship with my landlady. Any problems I have here I usually deal with myself if I can (I also know the daily rate of tradesmen as I have my own team for my Dollying). 

I have so far had to unblock the drains, which took 7 hours, and I roped in my son’s dad for this job! A drain company would have charged at least £500 for this.

When my washing machine died my landlady bought a new one, but on my new lease I’m now responsible for white goods – which is something most landlords are now doing. 

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

No – I’m looking to stay here long-term and would love one day to be able to buy this house. My son and I are very settled here. He is autistic and this has been a great place to live where it is quiet.

If this property never comes on the market, I’d buy somewhere else and rent it out so I can continue to stay living here. 

Shall we take a look around?

This week, we’re chatting to Angela Spring, who down-sized from a five-bedroom home to a studio apartment in Croydon.

Though she was originally looking to buy before she found her current home, the housing market proved too competitive, and prices remained high. So, she decided to stick with what she knew – South London, where she’s lived for most of her life.

Here’s what she had to say about her renting situation…

Tell us about yourself!

I’ve lived in South London for most of my life. After lockdown, I took a career break, sold my mortgaged family home to stay with family, and looked at other options.

I was really looking for a home to buy, but it proved difficult with the high prices in London. Then, before the end of last year, I found a studio flat in a new all-inclusive rental development called Enclave Croydon – where I currently rent.

How much do you pay to live here?

My rent is £1,715 per month, a little more than I wanted, but it’s a great deal considering rental prices in the area.

And what do you get for what you pay?

My monthly rent includes all bills and use of facilities such as large co-working areas, multiple conference rooms, a multi-faith room, podcast rooms, spacious communal kitchens, private dining areas, cinema rooms, a games room with poker, table tennis and darts, a gym, Peloton studio, yoga suite, a music room, a library, a laundry room, and a rooftop garden with beautiful views across London and the south.

It also has a spa with sauna, steam room and hot and cold water plunge, which can be added monthly if needed. We also have free resident activities, which I regularly participate in. They give us residents a chance to meet each other and share interests.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Overall, I think it’s a very good deal compared to what’s out there in the market – with the all-inclusive rent, flexible tenures and onsite facilities.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

I love Croydon as I’ve lived in the area for more than 40 years. It really is my home! My flat is right in the centre of town, two minutes from East Croydon station.

It has great transport links to central London and all other areas, as well as tram and bus connections. Boxpark is also next to the station, which always has great entertainment and lots of dining options.

How did you find this property?

I came across Enclave Croydon by accident last November. I got an email about its launch festival, an all-day celebration for residents and prospects which featured some interesting activities that inspired me.

I didn’t intend to move at the time and wasn’t even looking to live in a high-rise flat. However, I was impressed by the facilities, the building and the beautiful views of Croydon from up high. It didn’t take long for me to decide to move.

How have you made this place feel like home?

Coming from a five-bedroom home, I thought it might be difficult to downsize, but now I have a studio with more than enough space for everything I need, and even some things that I don’t!

My flat has built-in spaces and large windows with lovely views of Croydon and its green spaces. While I’m not able to decorate, I’ve been able to add personal touches to make the space my own, such as cushions and plants.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

I haven’t had any problems so far, but there’s a maintenance team in the building on hand to help if any do arise.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

I have my new home for at least a year and don’t intend to buy any time soon. It’s quite difficult at the moment with prices and the cost of living so high.

However, with my bills all included here and with the facilities available, this development has given me new possibilities to do and learn something new, and I am making the most of it!

Shall we take a look around?

This week, it’s a mash-up of What I Own and What I Rent as we chat to someone who previously owned a property but now rents in West London.

Tara Rodrigues bagged the keys to a £250,000 flat after winning Channel 4’s Big Interiors Battle, but she’s choosing to live in a rented property – for now at least.

The single mum cashed in the Sheffield apartment to be based in London, and while she saves for her forever home has come up with innovative ways to improve her rented space.

Tara’s studio, TR Interiors, pledges to uplift communities with pro bono projects for children in need. 

Here’s everything to know about Tara’s property journey so far…

Tell us about yourself… 

I’m a passionate, fun-loving creative person. I love reading, drawing and being surrounded by nature. My love for interior design unfolded after I had my kids, which at first I overlooked as my maternal nesting nature until I realised it was much deeper than that.

I had stumbled across the psychological and physiological impact of holistic design, and I wanted to have the same meaningful impact in other people’s homes and commercial spaces. I decided to follow my heart, change careers, and have no regrets. 

You won a flat in Big Interiors Battle – how come you are renting? 

I decided not to move to Sheffield – as a single parent and business owner I rely heavily on my support network all based in London. Saving the money for our forever home, developers bought me out. 

What kind of property do you rent? 

I live in a flat in West London, built during the Art Deco period around 1930 to 40. 

How much do you pay to live here? 

I pay £1,750 per month. 

What does that include? 

That covers my rent only – I pay all bills and council tax on top of that. My monthly bills (gas, electric and water) are roughly £200 and council tax is £120.

What do you get for what you pay?

We live in a two-bed flat, in a secure building. We are essentially paying to live in a nice flat in a lovely, safe area with good access to tube lines, the local shopping centre and my kids’ school. 

Do you feel like you have a good deal? 

When I was looking at flats – l kept saying to my estate agent, “I’ll know when I’ve found the right flat for us – it has to be number 11!” I am a big believer in numerology and this has certainly been a lucky number for me. This flat is great value for money. I looked at over 20 properties around Ealing, some of which were much more expensive and needed a lot of work. 

What have you done with your rented place? 

I haven’t made any major changes as we only planned to stay here for one year. I’ve done up the girls’ rooms in the styles which they love. I asked them to do pin boards of styles and colours on Pinterest. They couldn’t have been more opposite. My youngest wanted a white minimalistic room – and was not open to any negotiations of a small wall mural of any kind. My eldest daughter basically wanted me to transform our flat into a fully-fledged castle with exuberant carved furniture with no expense spared on gold adornment and opulent drapery. Swags and tails would have been welcomed. Being a designer, I take my client briefs very seriously so I really enjoyed creating fun, practical spaces for both girls incorporating design styles they like. 

You’ve added a mural? 

Yes. For the living room, I indulged in a bold and colourful mural by Claire Noble – another contestant on The Big Interiors Battle. I have a playful personality and I need that to be reflected in my home. Wall murals are a fantastic and fun way to stamp your own style on a rental without too much faff when you are ready to move out. A fresh coat of paint and it’s as if it never happened. If you have a kitchen you really don’t like – changing the door knobs and adding tile stickers are cost effective. 

What are your top tips for doing up a rental place? 

You can find beautiful furniture at a beautiful price. I bought a lot on Facebook marketplace. 

I also know a good range of suppliers – shopping around is important. I think one of the biggest mistakes is shopping on impulse, I would advise anyone to have a good look around at what’s available – do a mood board to make sure the scheme sits well together (and avoid any returns) and if available, buy samples first. If you are renting short term like me and want to make small changes to create a high impact – add some really nice lamps and cushions and vases to make your home feel cosy and reflect your own style. And add plants. The benefits of biophilic design are immeasurable. 

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? 

Previously I’ve lived in rentals where I wasn’t even allowed to hang artwork let alone paint the walls. Surviving magnolia was a whole chapter of my life. That proved difficult to create a space that felt energising and cosy, because colour therapy is a real thing. I’m really thankful that I managed to find a flat with great natural light with a good kitchen and bathroom. 

What would you like to do that you can’t, and is there a way to get round that? 

Carpet is not my first choice for flooring. My solution to get around this is placing lots of nice artwork and decorative vases around the room to draw the eye upwards. Using large or patterned area rugs is another way to cover flooring you don’t like. 

What other plans have you got for it? 

I plan to add a fire surround – I’m bidding for a few on eBay. It’s just a quick and easy way to add some architectural detail authentic to the original design era.  

What do you love and not love so much about the area? 

Overall, I absolutely love the area we live in. It’s a friendly, clean neighbourhood and very accessible to good public transport links plus lots within walking distance. I don’t love how close we are the A40 and the air pollution – house plants are a good remedy for that. 

How did you find this property? 

I found it on Open Rent. 

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

We don’t have clothes falling out of cupboards anymore. We have ample storage space and a small utility room which is a saving grace in an average sized flat. I’ve got a washing machine and line in there plus ample shoe storage, so all the unsightly clutter is never on show. 

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat? 

I’d love off street parking and wish we had a private garden. There’s always a compromise when it comes to rentals. 

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

No. So far we’ve been really happy and settled here. My landlord has been amazing and that weighs in heavily when renting, having a responsive landlord certainly goes a long way. 

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place? 

I’m hoping we can move out of London and buy our ‘forever home’ within the next few years. I don’t see myself renting forever but in terms of affordability, I can afford to rent in an area that I wouldn’t easily afford to buy in so it does have its advantages. 

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE: What I Rent: ‘I pay £750-a-month to live on my own in Manchester’

MORE: What I Own: Katy, who pays £400 a month for the mortgage on her two-bed Manchester flat

This week we are in Manchester chatting to 25-year-old writer Ella Glover, who lives on her own in Salford.

Ella pays £750 per month for her apartment, which she describes as a ‘1.5 bed’ flat, due to the nature of the second bedroom.

Here’s everything she had to say about her renting experience…

Tell us about yourself

I’m a freelance journalist living on my own in Salford. I’ve lived in the same three mile radius for about seven years, since I moved here for university in 2016. I spend a lot of time at the gym or chilling with friends in their flats. I enjoy a coffee and cake down the road every now and then, but it’s getting a bit expensive.

How much do you pay to live here?

I pay £750 a month before bills. 

And what do you get for what you pay?

The flat is technically two bedrooms, but the second room doesn’t have a window that opens, and the wall is actually a sliding door, so I like to call it a 1.5-bedroom flat. There’s an open-plan living room/kitchen and a large bathroom, which does have a bath.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

I do. My landlord (thankfully) has not upped the rent since I moved here in 2019. Since then, the area has been gentrified massively, with at least four new developments in that time, all new build flats (some luxury) that cost nearly double what I pay. 

The location is ideal for me, being a walkable distance from the city centre, my gym and a nice park. It’s also got great transport links if you’re going to the city centre.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

Salford is massive, but this part of Salford is closer to the university and Manchester City Centre. It’s nice, with some really pretty old buildings and great independent restaurants and coffee shops. That said, it has become really gentrified (I am aware I’m part of this shift), which means it’s getting more and more expensive to live here. There’s a nice community of residents though, both new and old. 

How did you find this property?

I found it on either Rightmove or Zoopla in 2019.

How have you made this place feel like home?

Over the years I’ve collected a lot of trinkets and books, which I keep on my shelves. This Christmas, my nan painted some beautiful pictures of the ocean for me which I’ve dotted around the flat in various places. I also like to buy myself flowers — I have one bouquet in the bedroom and one in the living room.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

The only thing I’ve really done is install a pull up bar in lockdown. My landlord hasn’t mentioned it. Otherwise, I don’t really bother.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

For one person it’s great, for two it’s a little cramped. I’d prefer a bigger kitchen and some extra storage space, ideally. 

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

The hot water runs out when I try to run a bath, negating the point of having a bath, and it’s very cold. There is cladding in the building, but I haven’t had to deal with any of that being a renter. I think it would be better if the wall to the ‘second bedroom’ was knocked in to make a larger living area. 

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

I’ve been thinking about moving in with friends to save money, but I don’t think I can give up this place. It’s likely that I’ll only leave here if I ever leave Manchester.

Buying my own place is a very, very distant possibility — and even then, I’m not sure it is even a possibility. 

Shall we take a look around?

MORE: What I Rent: I pay £3,250 per month for a one-bed apartment in Battersea

MORE: What I Rent: ‘I pay £1,200 for my studio apartment in East London’

This is What I Rent – Metro’s series that explores what renting is like in the UK and further afield.

We’re chatting to Natalie Robinson this week – an award-winning celebrity stylist and style writer, who has been working in the fashion industry for more than 15 years. 

Natalie lives in a studio apartment at Royal Wharf, a waterfront development in East London’s Royal Docks.

Here’s what she has to say about her rental experience…

Tell us about yourself… 

I am a freelance luxury personal shopper, stylist, and livestream seller host of pre-owned designer bags and beauty products. Through my fashion career spanning over ten years, I have helped men and women from all backgrounds, celebrities, and corporate clients to elevate their style and gain more confidence in themselves and their fashion choices. I recently won a Diamond Special Recognition Award Worldwide (2023) for Women and Youth Empowerment Through Fashion.

What keeps me level-headed? River, the family puppy – we engage in regular brisk walks and park runs. She’s my number one companion. 

What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there?  

I have been renting a studio apartment in Royal Wharf since 2018. 

How much do you pay to live here? 

Approximately £1200pcm. 

What does that include?  

Rent, council tax and service charge. 

What do you get for what you pay?  

A spacious apartment, a communal garden, a clubhouse with a gym, sauna/jacuzzi, swimming pool, and concierge service. 

Do you feel like you have a good deal?  

Yes – location is everything.

Besides that a spacious apartment and great local amenities, plus public transport is really accessible. It takes 30 to 40 minutes to travel into Central London, and 10 minutes to City Airport from Pontoon Dock DLR, which is a two-minute walk from my apartment. Local buses and the Thames Clipper boat service – all situated within the Royal Wharf development – take you to further destination points. There is a direct train to Heathrow Airport via the Elizabeth Line which you can catch from next to The Excel, a 20-minute walk away. 

What do you love to do in your flat? 

My flat is my safe space, a little sanctuary where I love to be creative – produce content, livestream from home, cook, and relax. 

What do you love and not love so much about the area? 

The vast waterscape and green spaces initially attracted me to Royal Wharf. There are two parks – Thames Barrier Park and Lyle Park adjacent to the new Riverscape development – they are great for dog walking and summer picnics. I also love the community events hosted by Riverscape – the summer fete and others – which help creative professionals who live locally to support one another.  

The Royal Docks area is very multicultural and community-driven. When visiting this area initially, it felt safe and looked clean. What’s more, I felt a special connection with the area – it has so much industrial history to offer and the potential to become one of London’s most cosmopolitan areas in which to live. The only things that need to be added to the area are a local shopping centre, cinema or library. 

How did you find this property?  

Through Google. 

How have you made this place feel like home?  

I have made my apartment feel like home by utilising the space and styling it with comforting accessories, such as feathers, plants, colourful ornaments and memorabilia from my travels to boost positive energy. The key features of my apartment are my bookcase, as I love to read, and a round dinner table where I can entertain friends. 

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting?  

There are restrictions – but luckily, I do not enjoy painting, so I have tested my interior styling skills by styling my apartment with one-of-a-kind accessories. This includes cushions I picked up from the runway floor in Milan, during fashion week, as well as plants, a bookcase and modern furniture. 

Do you feel like you have enough space?  

I have enough space for now, but eventually, I would love a one-bedroom apartment. 

What would you like to have but don’t with this flat? 

A private balcony. 

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?  

No. 

Do you have plans to move again any time soon?  

No – this place feels like home. Plus, moving home can be very stressful.  

What about buying a place?  

I want to buy my apartment as an investment property. 

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE: I didn’t tell my boyfriend I own the building we live in – now he wants half my tenant’s rent money

MORE: What I Rent: I pay £3,250 per month for a one-bed apartment in Battersea

This is an attitude very much held by Tiago Carvalho, who lives in a one-bed apartment in London’s Nine Elms.

For this week’s What I Rent, we’re chatting to Tiago about his rental experience and why he likes paying for the lifestyle that comes with it – such as the facilities on offer at his development.

Here’s what he had to say…

Tell us about yourself.

I’m 34 and a growth manager for a property technology company based in Canary Wharf. I love CrossFit, exercising and also cycling – and do that every day to commute to work. Also, I love a good themed party and socialising. 

I’ve been living here for six months.

How much do you pay to live here?

 £3,250 a month.

This includes 24/7 maintenance and access to: amenities (AKA the pool, gym, co-working space, dining spaces, 24/7 concierge, rooftop and Orangery). But utilities are not included.

What do you get for what you pay? 

You get top-of-the-line amenities at Bloom East: spacious flats, five lounges, co-working space with meeting rooms (great if you’re working from home) a swimming pool with Jacuzzi, barbecue spots, pool tables, and top of line gym, plus a 360 rooftop. There’s even a grow your own veggies spot and a super cute Orangery (a bit like a greenhouse).

Do you feel like you have a good deal? 

Yes, I believe that you’re not just paying for a flat, you are paying for a lifestyle (it sounds corny) but it’s true.

I love having my friends over and rather than being in my flat, we can all hang out in the lounge, or pool. We play ping pong or play piano (I don’t but some of my friends do and I make them play).

What do you think of Nine Elms / Battersea? 

I have been in London for 13 years now, and five have been in Battersea – it’s by far the best area to live. I’m next to the Battersea Power station, how cool is that?

How did you find this property? 

I had a phone call from the lettings team.

How have you made this place feel like home? 

I have been collecting furniture for a while now and I love having special pieces that make my home feel unique and mine.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? 

I had my furniture, so for me it was easy.

But Greystar (the property management company) are on hand to help you with that for sure.

Do you feel like you have enough space? 

Yes, the flat is very spacious. 

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with? 

No, not at all. Everything works, even if it didn’t, they have a maintenance team and they are super quick to act.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place? 

No, I am very happy and settled at the moment, moving frequently is very costly. At the moment with the crazy mortgage rates, it makes no sense to buy.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE: What I Rent: Trader Siam, who pays £3,250 per month in Norwich – and is waiting to buy mortgage-free

MORE: What I Rent: Lambertus and Jennilee, who pay £1,275 for a two-bed house in West Sussex

This week we are chatting to Siam Kidd, who has been renting a house with his family in Norwich for the last three-and-a-half years.

Siam says renting currently suits his way of life and buying a house seems ‘illogical’ for him at the moment.

Here’s what Siam has to say about it…

Tell us about yourself

I’m Siam Kidd, 37 years old from Norwich, and I’m a full-time crypto trader and business owner.

How much do you pay to live here?

I’ve been here for 3.5 years now and pay £3,250p/m rent, £330p/m council tax, £350p/m cleaners, £600p/m gardeners, £250p/m water and £2,000p/m in electricity.

Yeah I know, there must be some dodgy wiring here.

And what do you get for what you pay?

We get a lovely house, annex, stables, garages and many acres of garden and woodland. Also, because I’m a crypto trader, renting is perfect as it means I don’t have huge sums of capital parked in a house. Plus, my business growth and crypto returns exceed normal house price appreciation.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Yes, it’s a great deal. My businesses contribute to the rent, so that reduces personal outgoings a bit. Also, by not having to deploy huge capital into a house deposit and fees, I am able to grow that saved capital a lot more via my trading and businesses.

So for me, personally, on every financial metric, buying a house is illogical. I’m aware that this will seem bonkers to most.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

Norwich and it’s a beautiful area with everything one needs. It’s a fine city.

How did you find this property?

On Rightmove.

How have you made this place feel like home?

I don’t really get caught up in emotional and intangible things like ‘feeling like a home’. All I need is my home office and I’m happy. But we’ve made lovely bedrooms for the kids and a nice play area in the garden, so the kids love it.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

We have an excellent landlord and we don’t really decorate. I’m useless at DIY and don’t really have the time for it anyway. My wife joked that we are sort of glamping in this place.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Too much space. We are spoiled with space here. We’re very grateful for this.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

We just can’t figure out where all this electricity is going. Even with all the heating off for months, the bill is still so high.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

I plan to finally buy my forever home mortgage-free at the end of 2025.

Mortgages are modern day scams in my opinion when you properly look at the numbers. They only make sense if you’re an employee and will stay in that house for 25+ years. But stats show that most people move house every 10 years.

Also, it’s important to gauge house prices against the currency supply, not a nominal figure like the House Price Index as the Pound is rapidly and perpetually devaluing.

So looking at that chart, house prices should have fallen nicely by the end of 2025, which also coincides nicely with the next crypto bull market high.

Also, historically it’s best to buy a couple years after vast interest rate hikes have peaked.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE: What I Rent: Lambertus and Jennilee, who pay £1,275 for a two-bed house in West Sussex

MORE: What I Rent: Tim and Mathilde, who pay £2,000 a month for their Leamington Spa one-bed

Welcome back to another installment of Metro’s tenant diary series, What I Rent.

We’re in West Sussex this week, chatting to Lambertus and Jennilee Blom who rent a two-bed home with their three kids – Aleejah, Zuah and Feyja – as well as their cat and dog.

The couple struggled to find a pet-friendly rental property with a garden on the market, but then came across a Build to Rent development that ticked all their boxes.

Here’s what the couple have to say about their renting experience..

Tell us about yourselves.

We’re Lambertus and Jennilee and we live at Fontwell Meadows, in Chichester, West Sussex, with our cat, dog, two children and newborn baby.

We moved from a rented two-bedroom barn conversion in Yapton, West Sussex to here in February. Our decision to move stemmed from needing more space for our children and pets to roam.

We really wanted to find a rental property that had a private garden, included modern conveniences, long-term security and allowed pets – we had struggled to find a pet friendly property on the market.

We love to go for family walks with the dog and explore the beach.

How much do you pay to live here?

We pay monthly rent payments of £1,275 with a tenancy agreement of 24 months. Although Leaf Living [the provider] offers a no-deposit option through Flatfair, we put down a five-week deposit of £1,595.

And what do you get for what you pay?

We get a modern and energy efficient new-build property with long-term security and smart home features. Energy-efficiency was high on our checklist to help us save money on our bills. Our home is EPC-rated B which is a lot more sustainable than the national average.

We really wanted long-term stability. Our BTR (build to rent) provider is our landlord – this is great because it eliminates any surprises or short-term notice to move that you could easily get with a private landlord, and it means our home is maintained to a high quality.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Absolutely! To find a rented home which is not only pet-friendly but ticks all of our boxes is an incredibly rare find – and we are close to our jobs, I [Lambertus] work at Rolls Royce.

As our home is energy efficient, we save money on our energy bills, which is a bonus. We had really struggled to find a pet-friendly home to let within a 15-mile radius of our previous property, this narrowed our options down considerably, so to find a new-build rental property – we felt like we hit the jackpot.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

Our home is based in Fontwell, Chichester – there is easy access to the A27 which provides connections to the South Coast and destinations including Southampton and Brighton. It’s such a nice little community. It’s great to have a garden and to live so close to green spaces, it’s the perfect place to take the dog for a walk. The scenery is stunning here, it is also a perfect location for schools for our little ones.

How did you find this property?

After a long search on websites such as Rightmove and Zoopla, we came across Fontwell Meadows and fell in love straight away. This home really met all of our needs. We went to view the property shortly after and the rest just fell into place.

The move-in process was seamless. It was all digital and very easy to navigate, it was very professional. The team were so helpful. They made our moving-in experience so easy. We have really integrated well here – the neighbours are so friendly; you can really feel the sense of community.

How have you made this place feel like home? Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

We have taken up gardening. Our old property didn’t have any outside space so we were excited to add some plants. Seeing our children and pets play in the garden is lovely.

We have also decorated a little – our BTR provider was happy for us to decorate our home which was fantastic news – not something you hear every day when renting privately.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Definitely. Having a garden for the kids and pets to run around has made things so much more spacious with little ones running around. Where we live also has so many green spaces for us to go for walks.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

Not at all, the team have been brilliant, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

We don’t have any plans to move any time soon.

We love it here – although we may need a bigger property in two years’ time once our children are a bit older. But for now, our home is perfect, and we wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE: What I Own: First-time buyer Will, who put down a £18,000 deposit on an Ealing flat using crypto investments

MORE: What I Rent: Tim and Mathilde, who pay £2,000 a month for their Leamington Spa one-bed

Welcome back to another instalment of Metro’s tenant diary series, What I Rent.

This week we’re chatting to Tim Johnson and Mathilde Rollin, who share a one-bedroom flat in Royal Leamington Spa with their cat Basil, paying £2,000 each month in rent and bills.

The couple are landlords of a home they own in Versailles, France, as well as tenants here in the UK, having lived in this property for the last three-and-a-half years.

Here’s what they had to say about their renting situation…

Tell us about yourselves.

We’re Tim Johnson, 44, and Mathilde Rollin, 38.

I’m Tim, the director of Cora + Spink, a design company where we focus on enhancing the image of plant based, natural materials in the world of backpacks and accessories. Mathilde is Lead Designer for Tata Motors, looking after the colour, materials and finishes of concept and production cars, including development of the brand’s electric vehicles.

How much do you pay to live here?

Our apartment here in Royal Leamington Spa costs us about £2,000 a month all in, but it varies depending on the time of year and the need for heating, as it’s in a conservation area and we rely on the original single glazing, and it’s quite draughty and cold in winter!

Our rent is £1,350 per month (including fees/service charge). Then our energy bills are around £280, council tax £100, water £50, insurance £20, and internet £25.

And what do you get for what you pay?

It’s a one-bed, duplex apartment of about 100 square metres. We have a beautiful main living room that has managed to retain its features from 1847, which besides my office in the converted basement is where we spend the majority of our time.

We have a courtyard terrace, where I’m trying to grow some vegetables, that gives us plenty of space to eat outside and BBQ when the weather permits! The good sized kitchen, also in the basement, is perfectly fine, although if it was possible we’d love to renovate.

We’re also lucky that there are a couple of bathrooms and an ensuite shower to the master bedroom.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Absolutely. Leamington is known for a mobile population and competitive rentals, but even so, good property gets snapped up so quickly, even in today’s climate, good rentals don’t stay on the market for long.

We’re happy with the price we pay, but the bills are very high in the winter due to the place being poorly insulated.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

Our home is in Leamington Spa is a beautiful area, less than five minutes walk to the centre of town, known for its regency architecture, beautiful parks, and vibrant community. It’s a perfect blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty.

Our focus with finding the perfect house was always to be around people and things to do. Leamington brings us that, from the brilliant variety of independent shops to restaurants and businesses all on our doorstep.

How did you find this property?

It took us nearly a year to find this flat. We were looking in all the usual online places, from Facebook market place to Rightmove – the initial photos of the flat weren’t actually that appealing, they were quite old, and because the flat is quite dark downstairs the photos didn’t do it justice.

However we saw some of the original features straight away, and on our visit knew it was for us immediately.

Did you have to pay a deposit?

Yes, I think it was set at one-and-a-half months’ rent, something like that.

How have you made this place feel like home?

Both of us work in a creative field, and share a passion for collecting furniture and art. So for the three-and-a-half years we’ve been here our collections have really started to put our stamp on the place.

We have kept the place maintained rather than decorating too much, although we did remove the carpets in the living room to restore the original floorboards, and have done some decoration throughout.

Our cat, Basil, certainly adds a lively touch to the place too, with his fur and scratches atoning most surfaces.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

We always communicate with our landlord before making any significant changes. So far, we’ve been fortunate to have an understanding landlord who appreciates our efforts to maintain and enhance the property.

We have a great relationship with him, and as owners of a property in Versailles, France that we rent out, we understand his position first hand.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Yes, our home is spacious enough for our needs, and it provides a cosy environment for us and Basil. Sometimes, because we like to collect so much stuff, we feel there’s a little too much space!

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

Like any home there are occasional maintenance needs, but our landlord is really good, sending someone around or helping us fix it ourselves. He actually set this flat up as his own flat – so it doesn’t feel like a typical rental that you get a lot of around the area. We have suffered with a couple of leaks from overflowing baths from the flat upstairs though!

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

We’re always keeping an eye on the property market. While we love our current home, we’re considering the possibility of buying a house, either here in Leamington Spa or in France, where my partner Mathilde is originally from.

There are so many benefits to living in a rented house though, so any move would have to be to something even more exciting and well located.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE: What I Own: Dario, who lives in Stratford Upon Avon and pays £1,540 a month for his mortgage

MORE: What I Rent: Jess and Sean, who pay £1,400 per month for their Deptford flat

For What I Rent this week, we are speaking to Rachel Smith and Gaston Bratcher. The couple moved over from Dallas, US, to live in the UK and now rent in Stratford, London.

After previously owning a home in the US, they now pay £2,815 every month to rent their two-bed London apartment.

Here’s what they had to say about their renting situation…

Tell us about yourselves.

We’re Rachel and Gaston, both 36, and live at Coppermaker Square, in Stratford, East London, with our two-year-old daughter Willow.

We moved to London from the USA in January 2023. We moved for my (Rachel) work, as a financial consultant, and were lucky enough to stumble across and fall in love with Coppermaker Square shortly after moving to the UK. As a family we like to explore new areas and are loving our new life in London.

How much do you pay to live here?

£2,815 per month.

And what do you get for what you pay?

We get so much more than just an apartment, that’s what’s great about Coppermaker Square. We have our two-bedroom spacious apartment, but we also get to enjoy all of the amenities and communal areas on offer. There’s a huge gym, pool and spa downstairs, a co-working area with free tea and coffee all day and resident lounge with outside roof terrace – Willow loves running around out here.

In addition to these features, there is a resident app available that offers a wide range of services, including Tulu rental membership and Zipcar membership. The app also provides a packed calendar of fun resident events, which are exclusively accessible to residents.

We try to go to all of the events that are held since there’s so many to choose from and it’s so nice to meet fellow neighbours and see familiar faces around the building.

We’ve been to SuperBowl nights, pasta-making workshops and even a personal shopping event with John Lewis. They recently held a gin distillery day trip which we couldn’t make but it looked fun.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

Yes definitely. The quality of the homes and spaces in this block are exceptional and it’s no wonder that we fell in love straight away. When comparing prices, it’s important to consider additional factors such as the cost of a fitness club membership, which is included with your rent here. Plus, there is the potential increase in energy usage when working from home as well as the cost of a membership to a flexible workspace.

At Coppermaker Square the co-working area provides desks, worktops, and soundproof booths with fast WI-FI, along with complimentary tea and coffee. We’re able to save on our own bills when living here by having access to all of that.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

Our apartment is minutes away from Westfield Stratford City in East London and since living here we’ve just fallen in love with Stratford. The connectivity to central London and beyond is great and we also we have everything we need and more on the doorstep.

We are always out exploring and love the parks and green spaces that surround the building – they’re perfect for family walks or taking Willow out to play outside when the weather is nice. Some of our favourite local spots are Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Victoria Park and Hackney Wick and we always explore a new area every weekend as a family – the station is so close we can go further afield if we like too!

How did you find this property?

After living in corporate housing for a month, we knew that we wanted to live somewhere along the Jubilee Line and somewhere with lots of stuff going on. We got straight onto Rightmove, Zoopla and were in touch with estate agents. We decided that a new build would make our already busy lives so much easier; fewer repairs, brand-new quality appliances and on-site amenities meant we could move in straight away with no fuss.

We came across the complex, Gaston viewed it first and thought it was perfect for us. He told me that the building was ‘absolutely beautiful’, so we came and looked around together and were instantly enamoured.

How have you made this place feel like home? / Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

Decorating is difficult with a two-year-old, so although we do have the freedom to paint walls and put wallpaper up as we wish, we’ve just made the place feel like home by adding lots of house plants, colourful rugs and of course lots of toys for Willow. We can pick up any furniture or homewares at any of the many shops at Westfield Stratford City, they’re just minutes away and super convenient for us.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Definitely. We have our two-bedroom apartment, but we always say that we also live outside of those four walls as there are so many communal areas we can use too. I sometimes work early in the morning or late at night and as you can imagine, it’s hard to do so with a little one running around.

Having the co-working space makes life so much easier as I can just pop down for a few hours at a time. It’s working from home, but not in your home.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

We encountered a few minor issues when we first moved in but these were very quickly dealt with by the building’s team that’s here all day and we know there’s a reliable handyman that we can book for any other maintenance jobs we need around the apartment. It’s easy to raise anything through the app and speak to the team – everything is made to be as hassle-free as possible. We even pay our rent with just the click of a button through the app.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

At the moment we’re very happy renting here, but there may be a time in the future and when Willow goes to school that we might look into a bigger place. We used to own a home in Dallas but decided to sell it to make our big move to the UK, so we won’t be rushing to buy again anytime soon.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE: What I Rent: Jess and Sean, who pay £1,400 per month for their Deptford flat

MORE: What I Own: Mel, who bought her Lincolnshire three-bed this year with a 10% deposit

It’s been a while but we are back in action and chatting to renters across the country.

This week we have a familiar face – it’s Metro Lifestyle’s very own Jessica Lindsay, who has appeared in the series before.

Jess is now living in Deptford with her boyfriend, Sean, after talking about her two previous flats with us. Here’s what she had to say…

Tell us about yourself, Jess.

I’m Jess! I’m 29 and a senior lifestyle reporter here at Metro, and I live with my boyfriend Sean, 31, a digital designer, and our cat, Fred, 15, in Deptford, South East London.

It’s my third go at What I Rent now, and our current flat is a one-bedroom in a newbuild development. We’ve been here for just over two years and split rent and bills equally.

How much do you pay to live here?

£1,400 a month at the moment. We initially paid £1,250pm when we moved in during the pandemic, then last year the landlord told us if we wanted to stay it’d be £1,750pm– a massive jump.

After finding somewhere new in our price range and putting down a deposit, he changed his mind and said the rise wouldn’t be so steep. It was a big hassle and super stressful, but we ultimately decided to stay put.

And what do you get for what you pay?

The flat is roughly 650 square feet, made up of an open-plan living/dining/kitchen area, a big double bedroom, and a bathroom with a bath. There’s also a wee balcony that’s lovely for sitting out in the evenings.

Do you feel like you have a good deal?

When I speak to friends from home in Scotland, no, but in terms of London I think we’re doing okay. It’s definitely frustrating that prices keep going up when we’re not earning more or getting anything different for our money, but that’s the case everywhere right now and the flat itself is what we want for the moment.

Where is your home based? What do you think of the area?

If I’m living in London, I only want to be in Deptford or New Cross. It’s busy without feeling stifling, people are friendly, everything’s on our doorstep, and we’ve made a real home here. That said, this particular flat is further from the High Street than previous places, so I’ve developed a love/hate relationship with Deliveroo and Gorillas – it’s far too easy to never leave the house! 

Our windows are also directly adjacent to a train track, and while there’s triple glazing and air filtering to make up for the pollution and noise, it is a bit weird when passengers peer right in on you.

How did you find this property?

I think it was OnTheMarket, but we’d been scouring property sites for ages after our previous landlord told us he was selling up. It was touch and go given the lockdowns, but I think the fact nobody wanted to move house at that point actually helped us.

How have you made this place feel like home?

Command strips and putting all sorts on the walls, really. I also love plants, cushions and colour (can you tell?) so try to incorporate that in the decor. 

Getting a cat really changed things for us too – despite the back and forth trying to get permission initially. Our first rescue Frank passed away last year and it felt empty without him, so his ashes sit on the windowsill and we’ve vowed to be ‘those’ people who spoil their grizzled old cats like babies.

Have you found it difficult to decorate when renting? Is your landlord happy with you doing bits?

I think because we know it’ll never be our place, we’ve kept it renter-friendly and filled it with stuff we’ve collected over the years as a temporary workaround. Our landlord lives in Hong Kong and there’s nothing that needs doing urgently since it’s new, so it’d be too much faff to request any cosmetic changes.

Do you feel like you have enough space?

Although it’s a one-bed we have more than enough space. The main room has a corner area where we’ve squeezed a sofa bed for when guests stay, plus there’s loads of built-in storage. Most importantly, there’s a balcony to retreat to when we’re feeling cooped up indoors.

Are there any problems with the home you have to deal with?

Aside from the rent rises, the main thing has been the energy bills. All the flats here are part of a Home Heat Network, which means we’re not subject to the Ofgem cap and can’t switch to a different provider. We don’t use too much energy to keep costs down – the buildings are thankfully good at retaining heat as well – but our gas unit price went up by 700% last winter, which was a shock to the system.

Do you have plans to move again any time soon? What about buying a place?

The dream was always to buy an old place round here and do it up, but that has remained a very distant dream for some time now. We pay so much of our incomes towards rent, saving for a deposit in London is like fighting a losing battle – winning the lottery seems more likely.

We’ll probably be priced out of London once our lease is over if the rental market continues as it has been, so who knows where we’ll end up. The joys of being a tenant. It’d be exciting if it wasn’t so soul-destroying.

How does this compare to other places you’ve rented?

I’ve spoken about my previous two rented flats on What I Rent.

The first one was a stopgap and had so many problems, from ant infestations to a locked-up thermostat, so I’m more than happy to be shot of it. 

I really liked the location of our second place and have a lot of happy memories of the time there, but after the landlord kicked us out during a global pandemic, there’s no love lost.

Shall we take a look around?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE: What I Own: Mel, who bought her Lincolnshire three-bed this year with a 10% deposit

MORE: What I Own: Business owner Gaby, who bought her Wirral home with a £20,000 deposit and Lifetime ISA