The council has conducted research on the fees charged by lettings agencies within its jurisdiction and, perhaps unsurprisingly, claims that its own agency, YorHome, offers the most affordable rates.

According to the council, YorHome charges a 9% letting fee for properties in York, which is the lowest management fee in the city with no additional charges. This could potentially save landlords between £700 and £1,930 annually.

New landlords who join YorHome can benefit from free home improvements and receive 12 months’ rent upfront. Additionally, all YorHome landlords enjoy a fee-free fifth consecutive year.

For example, with a two-bedroom home renting for £10,800 annually (or £900 per month), the council states that after the 9% fee deduction, landlords would receive £9,828 per year. In comparison, the next cheapest agent would deliver £9,108 annually, which is £720 less, while the most expensive agent would provide just £7,895 annually, a difference of £1,933.

YorHome’s single 9% fee covers a comprehensive letting service, including preparing the home for rental, a deposit scheme and registration fee, tenancy agreements and extensions, inventory preparation and property inspections, and the cost of an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Most other agencies charge extra for many of these services.