GTH Top Tips for Farm Tenancy Applications
June 2026
By Mollie Gillard, MRICS FAAV, Rural Surveyor
Applying for a farm, whether this be a private landlord or council estate holding, presents an exciting opportunity, but one that is often highly competitive and often a daunting process for applicants. With experience in managing farm and land re-lets across the region, Mollie Gillard, Rural Surveyor from our Dorchester office highlights that success is not determined solely by offering the highest rent.
Landlords take a holistic view of applications, assessing a range of factors including the applicant’s background, the viability of the proposed farming system and the strength of financial forecasts. Understanding and addressing these elements comprehensively can significantly enhance the prospects of a successful application.
Landlords take a holistic view of applications, assessing a range of factors including the applicant’s background, the viability of the proposed farming system and the strength of financial forecasts. Understanding and addressing these elements comprehensively can significantly enhance the prospects of a successful application.
Make a strong impression at the viewing stage
The viewing day provides a valuable opportunity to demonstrate professionalism, enthusiasm, and suitability. Applicants should approach this as a critical part of the selection process, ensuring they leave a positive and lasting impression on both the landlord and their professional advisers, even where prior familiarity with the holding exists.
Prepare a robust and detailed business plan
A well-structured business plan is essential. This should clearly outline the proposed farming system over the duration of the tenancy, including cropping rotations, livestock enterprises, capital investment plans, environmental grants and opportunities for diversification. Supporting this with a detailed financial forecast, covering funding sources, projected outputs, and both fixed and variable costs, is equally important to demonstrate long-term viability.
Fully understand the tenancy agreement
Landlords are increasingly focused on protecting and enhancing their assets. As such, tenancy agreements may include specific obligations, restrictions, or non-standard provisions. Applicants must ensure their proposals align with these requirements, as well as with the landlord’s broader objectives for the holding.
Demonstrate a clear understanding of your application
At interview stage, applicants should expect to be tested on the detail and assumptions within their submission. It is therefore crucial to have a thorough understanding of the figures presented, particularly where professional advisers have been involved. A strong candidate will be able to explain their approach and demonstrate how their business would respond to changing market conditions.
Through acting on behalf of landlords, we have developed a clear understanding of the attributes that underpin successful applications. A well-prepared, informed, and professional approach is key to standing out in a competitive field.
Whether you are seeking to secure a farm tenancy, are a landowner considering your letting options, are looking for bespoke advice in relation to your individual situation, or looking for more information on our broad range of rural and professional services please contact your local specialist rural agent or Mollie Gillard on 01305 268786 or [email protected].
Through acting on behalf of landlords, we have developed a clear understanding of the attributes that underpin successful applications. A well-prepared, informed, and professional approach is key to standing out in a competitive field.
Whether you are seeking to secure a farm tenancy, are a landowner considering your letting options, are looking for bespoke advice in relation to your individual situation, or looking for more information on our broad range of rural and professional services please contact your local specialist rural agent or Mollie Gillard on 01305 268786 or [email protected].