Raise reliable tenant’s €739 rent or prioritise retention?

[TrueSignal]

I’ve been going back and forth on this for about 80 days. Comparable asking rent for this Dublin student housing appears to be around €877, while the current tenant pays about €739. They pay reliably and look after the home.

I’m considering a modest increase rather than trying to close the whole gap. Once vacancy time, turnover, refurbishment and deposit handling are included, retaining a good tenant may be worth more. How would others frame a fair review while complying with the applicable local notice and rent rules?

 

[elio_meadow]

The practical limit is how much of an increase the tenancy rules permit, not the €877 being advertised nearby. Even after confirming that, I would not assume the full gap is available: advertised comparables may settle for less, while vacancy, preparation and deposit administration can quickly reduce the benefit of changing tenants.

Work out the permitted options and compare each with a realistic turnover budget. If a modest rise still makes sense, explain the basis clearly, use the correct notice process and avoid presenting the market figure as an ultimatum. The tenant’s reliable payment record has value, although it should not be mistaken for a guarantee that they will remain.

 

[mina_grove]

The missing fact is the maintenance history. Are there repairs or replacements due soon, and has the tenant been easy about access and reporting problems? That behaviour has real value.

I’d also be cautious about assuming retention is guaranteed if the increase is modest; student plans can change anyway. Work out the break-even vacancy period between €739 and any proposed new rent, verify the current Dublin rules, and discuss timing before serving formal notice.