Tenant Find vs. Fully Managed: Which Option Works Best for You?

When renting out a property to students, one of the first choices a landlord needs to make is whether to go with a tenant find only service or opt for a fully managed letting solution. Each approach offers its own benefits and drawbacks, depending on how involved you want to be with the day-to-day running of your property.

This guide outlines the key differences between the two, helping you decide which is the right fit — and how Star Students can support you either way.

What Is a Tenant Find Only Service?

A tenant find service is designed to help landlords fill their property at the start of a tenancy. The letting agent markets the property, sources tenants, handles references and paperwork, and then hands the management back to the landlord once tenants move in.

Key Features:

• Property marketing and advertising

• Viewings and tenant referencing

• Guarantor checks and tenancy agreements

• Deposit collection and initial rent setup

After that point, all ongoing responsibilities — from rent collection to maintenance — fall to the landlord.

What Is a Fully Managed Service?

A fully managed service offers end-to-end management of the property. The letting agent takes care of everything from marketing and tenant move-in to repairs, inspections, legal compliance, and tenancy renewals.

Key Features:

• Full marketing and lettings process

• Regular property inspections

• Maintenance coordination

• Rent collection and arrears management

• Legal compliance and documentation handling

• End-of-tenancy procedures

This service is ideal for landlords who prefer a hands-off approach or are not local to the area.

Pros and Cons of Each Option

Tenant Find Only

Pros:

• Lower initial costs

• More direct control over the tenancy

• Suitable for hands-on landlords

Cons:

• Greater time commitment

• Requires familiarity with legal requirements

• Landlord must handle all tenant queries and maintenance issues

Fully Managed

Pros:

• Minimal involvement required

• Ongoing compliance and legal responsibilities handled

• Professional oversight of repairs, inspections, and tenant relations

Cons:

• Higher ongoing cost

• Less personal control over decisions

Choosing the Right Option for You

When deciding between tenant find and fully managed, consider your availability, experience, and long-term goals as a landlord. Ask yourself:

• Do you have the time to manage day-to-day issues?

• Are you comfortable keeping up with property regulations?

• Do you live close enough to attend to emergencies?

• Are you looking for convenience, or maximum control?

How Star Students Supports Landlords

At Star Students, we offer both tenant find and fully managed services to give landlords flexibility based on their needs.

Whether you prefer to take full control after tenants move in, or would rather have a professional team manage everything on your behalf, we’re here to help. Our experienced staff can guide you through the process and ensure that your property is rented efficiently, legally, and with as little stress as possible.

Let’s Talk About What Works for You

Every landlord is different — and so is every property. Whether you're managing a single student let or a growing portfolio, choosing the right service is key to long-term success.

Contact Star Students today to explore your options and find out how we can support your goals, no matter which path you take.

Get in touch with our team or visit our Landlords page for more information.