This week on the podcast, we’re thrilled to have Valerie Bannister, National Property Director at Your Move, joining us for the latest episode in our "My Life in Lettings" series. Valerie's 40-year career at LSL Land & New Homes is nothing short of inspiring. Her positive attitude and dedication have led her from humble beginnings—losing an earring in her first interview and working out of a cleaning cupboard— to becoming ARLA Propertymark President and winning the Sunday Times Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Lettings Sector! ✨

In this episode, Heidi and Valerie discuss; Valerie’s start in the property sector, how the industry has transformed over the last 40 years, navigating a career as a driven woman in the 80s, predictions for the Renters' Rights Bill and industry reactions, Valerie’s go-to ways to relax and unwind and the key people who made a difference in her journey

This is an inspirational story filled with valuable insights—perfect for your morning commute. And be sure to stick around for the story of the interview disaster that launched Valerie's incredible career! ✨

*Note: This episode was recorded just after the second reading of the Renters' Rights Bill, so any reference to timelines may have changed.

This week we are joined by our good friends and returning guests Ben Parker from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and Jennifer Berezai from AdvoCats to talk all things pets.

In this episode we reflect on the evolution from the initial Renters Reform Bill to the current Renters’ Rights Bill, and what it means for Pets In Lets.

They shared their insights on the ongoing challenges and what changes they are actively campaigning for including focusing on several key challenges facing pet owners in rental properties. Advocates are pushing for clear tenant rights regarding pet inclusion at the start of tenancies, aiming to combat discrimination against pet owners by placing them on the same level as families with children and those receiving benefits. They seek to define what constitutes a 'reasonable' denial of pet ownership, alongside establishing clear standards for insurance policies that support pet inclusion in rentals.

As you know, this is a topic that we are very passionate about so hearing the latest news on how the charities intend to seek clarity on the Pets In Lets legislation was something we were keen to hear about.

On the 9th of October, the Renters' Rights Bill advanced to its second reading in Parliament, where MPs debated the core principles of the proposed legislation. The session saw a range of viewpoints expressed by industry experts, with both support and concerns raised on various aspects of the Bill. If you were unable to catch it live, don’t worry—The Lettings Hub is committed to providing you with continuous insights and updates as the Bill progresses.

Our CEO, Heidi Shackell, sat down with Suzanne Smith, founder of The Independent Landlord blog and the Good Landlording Podcast, along with David Smith, Partner at JMW Solicitors LLP, to deliver a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the Renters' Rights Bill as it moves towards the next stages of the legislative process.