section 21 notice abolished

Section 21 Abolished

This guide explains what replaced Section 21, the key section 21 changes, transitional rules, and how Blue Crystal Property Management can help you stay compliant with evolving legislation.
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landlord property inspection

What is a landlord property inspection

Landlord property inspection list for landlords. Learn how regular inspections help protect rental properties, tenants, compliance, and rental income.
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Blue Crystal is finalist at the West London Business Awards 2026

We are exceptionally pleased to be a finalist at the West London Business Awards 2026 in the category of Business/Professional Services Company of the Year.
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landlord maintenance

Landlord Maintenance Tips

A rental property that is not well maintained can create a significant decrease in your property value. A clean, attractive and well-maintained property will attract potential tenants or keep existing tenants happy. The best way to ensure high-quality tenants, who rent long term and look after your property is to maintain it well. Please see below tips for rental property maintenance.
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how to be an effective landlord

How to be an Effective Landlord

A practical guide to managing your rental property with confidence, compliance, and care Article Summary Understanding how to be an effective landlord goes beyond collecting rent. It involves meeting legal requirements, maintaining your rental property, communicating clearly, and treating tenants with respect. This guide walks you through how to be an effective landlord; the key […]
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dealing with rent arrears

Rent Arrears? A Step-by-Step Guide for Landlords to Stay Protected

Dealing With Rent Arrears Legally, Calmly, and Effectively Dealing with rent arrears is stressful, but taking early action can prevent costs, court action, and lengthy eviction proceedings. This guide explains how private landlords can manage arrears calmly, protect monthly rent payments, and follow the correct legal process if matters escalate. Step One: Early Action and […]
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responsibilities of a block manager

Choosing the right Block Management in London

Are You Getting the Right Support for Your Block? Article Summary Managing a residential block in London takes more than arranging cleaners and repairs. From fire safety to financial reporting, effective block management ensures your building remains compliant, efficient, and safe for residents. Why Block Management Matters in London Managing a block of flats in […]
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Outstanding Customer Service Award (Company)

We are proud to announce, The Property Institute ACE Awards shortlisted Blue Crystal for Outstanding Customer Service Award (Company). The 2025 ACE Awards recognises excellence and exceptional achievements by UK managing agents, their suppliers and the work of their people in improving the lives of millions of leaseholders. Being shortlisted for ACE awards means a considerable amount to us as it reflects our commitment to our clients and customers, our primary driver at Blue Crystal.
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The Renters' Rights Bill 2024

The Renters’ Rights Bill

The Renters' Rights Bill 2024 was introduced by the new Labour government in the Kings Speech, the aim is to transform the experience of private renting. It is expected to come into force in the spring/summer of 2025, the Bill is currently making its way through the parliamentary process. Whilst yet to become law, and subject to change, we wanted to share what is proposed under the Bill. Some of the key points are noted below.
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ARMA ACE AWARDS WINNER

ARMA Awarded Blue Crystal Managing Agent of the year 2024

Blue Crystal Property Management has been awarded Managing Agent of the year (under 500 units) 2024 at the ARMA ACE awards. The 2024 ACE Awards recognises excellence and exceptional achievements by UK managing agents, their suppliers and the work of their people in improving the lives of millions of leaseholders. We have had a lot […]
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Blue Crystal Property Management has been shortlisted for TPI ACE Awards

Blue Crystal Property Management has been shortlisted for TPI ACE Awards

We are delighted to inform you that Blue Crystal Property Management has been shortlisted as finalists for the 2024 ACE Awards in the following category: ‘Managing Agent of the Year (Under 500 Units)
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Benefits of having a property manager

How to maximise your rental income

The goal of owning a rental property is to make money. It is important to to know what to do and what not to do to make your rental business successful. Being a landlord means paying for gas and electrical safety certificates, fitting smoke detectors, maintaining the property to a high standard to perhaps paying bigger tax bills. Part of being a successful landlord is always focusing on maximising your rental potential. This can be a tricky balance to achieve with so many legal obligations to meet.
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Best Property Management Comapny in London and South East Award

We are awarded as the Best Property Management Company in London and South East by Prestige Awards

It gives us great pleasure and pride to receive Best Residential Property Management Company (London & South East) title in the Corporate Livewire Prestige 2023 UK Enterprise Awards. These awards recognise small and medium-sized businesses that have proven to be the best in their market. Each entry is carefully assessed over a range of criteria, from service excellence to marketing and branding. We are thrilled to accept the winning award and wish to convey our heartfelt thanks to the awards judges, and also to our colleagues and customers for their continued support.
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How to deal with an antisocial tenant?

How to deal with an antisocial tenant?

Problem tenants are difficult to deal with for landlords; despite the government introducing an exception to the additional protections, a fast-track process for repossession cases featuring antisocial behaviour, the process is still likely to be long and arduous. Landlords faced with anti-social behaviour need to build-up a record of incidents which affect neighbours and other tenants. Keeping a diary of events, getting hold of witness statements from those affected, plus police reports of criminal activity and police call-outs is that all-important evidence to support such an application to the courts and this takes time.
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How to make more money & pay less tax when selling your property portfolio

How to reduce tax?

As the regulations and tax are constantly increasing many of the UK property owners are choosing to sell their properties in the recent years. Many landlords are missing out on money as they are not taking advantage of tax reliefs or property strategies to maximise their return. Your accountant can work out your tax strategies and execute a tax plan, making it easy for you. A series of tax and regulation changes mean more buy-to-lets are being sold than bought. Getting rid of a rental property may cause a lot of tax issues, with many complicated rules that can cost you profits. When a landlord sells he/she gets charged capital gains tax on any money they have made on their property, but there are legal ways to reduce your tax.
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What is client money protection for landlords

What is client money protection for landlords

All letting agents in England are required to belong to a client money protection scheme when they hold client monies. This scheme provides insurance to landlords and tenants in the event the agent steals money from their clients. Below guide provides a primer for agents on what they need to do to comply with these regulations, what are the potential penalties for not complying, and which schemes are available.
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