Places like brighton which are expensive will have less interest in a cost of living crisis when people shop around more or look further afield. Theres been a sharp drop in international student migration too. (1/3 less visas than 2023 peak) And some LLs aimimg to sell up due to RRA may have not got the sale price they wanted and have had to return to renting to pay mortgages.
The market can be very price sensitive - try advertising a little lower plus rightmove - why wouldnt you for 50 quid its the site most used. And share your ad here - what might have been fine when places were renting like hot cakes might not work now - people here will comment on the photos etc.
You are right to be sceptical - indeed just as before they can stop paying and the process to evict is long (under rra 3months arrears plus notice period then if they dont leave apply for possession then bailliffs- can easily take a year..). I wouldnt make exceptions for a fish in an aquarium- once you allow any pet you cant refuse another using the lease grounds. next they will want a snake (see thread
).
Good luck