My name is James Farrance, and I have headed the residential lettings and property management operation at Braxton in Maidenhead for nearly 20 years.
Braxton were founded in 1875, and with 150 years of continuous involvement in the local property market, we continue to operate with the same ethos — delivering quality service and results through professionalism, experience, and a highly personal approach. As Maidenhead’s longest-established independent estate agents, we have seen the private rented sector evolve many times and understand the importance of adapting carefully and sensibly to change.
The sector is now entering another significant period of transition with the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act 2026, which comes into effect on 1 May.
One of the key changes is the removal of fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies, with future tenancies operating on a rolling periodic basis. Alongside this, landlords will need to navigate revised notice arrangements, clearer tenancy terms and new parameters around rent increases.
While the legislation is intended to provide greater security for tenants, for landlords it represents a structural shift that requires informed planning and professional oversight — particularly in relation to compliance, income protection and long-term investment performance.
At Braxton we understand that letting a property is a major commitment, and our service never loses sight of the need to maximise returns while avoiding undue complications. We are already working closely with our landlord clients to review tenancy arrangements, update documentation and ensure portfolios are fully aligned with the new regulatory framework.
From a local market perspective, supply remains constrained across Maidenhead. What we are seeing very clearly is strong tenant demand for homes owned by individual and smaller portfolio landlords.
Tenants consistently express a preference for landlords who are personally invested in their properties and in the quality of the tenant experience. Many feel this level of care and accountability is harder to achieve with larger, institutional operators, where management can feel more remote.
When Braxton manage a property, we act as an extension of that personal landlord involvement. Our approach combines modern systems and proactive management with a traditional, hands-on commitment to customer care — maintaining strong tenant relationships, addressing issues promptly and ensuring properties are professionally and compliantly managed.
This level of engagement supports tenant satisfaction, helps reduce voids and contributes to long-term stability for landlords, even as the rental landscape continues to evolve.