With over four million families now occupying private rental homes in the UK, many investors are turning their hands to property.
However, finding the perfect investment home in such a vast, fast-moving market can present a significant challenge for new landlords. In this article, we will break down the crucial elements of the perfect buy-to-let home, giving you a complete guide to the key features every landlord should look for in a rental property.
Why Choose Property?
The rental market landscape has changed dramatically over the last decade, becoming increasingly more difficult for young professionals to take their first step on the ladder. So, many tenants are willing to pay a premium for high-quality property, meaning this physical asset can provide landlords with a robust annual profit.
Additionally, unlike stocks, shares or cryptocurrency, property allows investors to be as hands-on or hands-off as they wish. For example, some investors enjoy the process of being the first point of contact for their tenants, whereas others choose to appoint lettings agents to oversee the day to day running of the home.
In summary, property is flexible and lucrative, providing a stable and robust income for those willing to invest their time, knowledge and finances.
The Differences With Buy-To-Let
The process of purchasing a buy-to-love home is worlds away from finding a property for your family to enjoy. When buying your own home, you likely have a long list of non-negotiables to ensure you secure a property that works for your individual needs.
However, when searching for your first buy-to-let, your aim should always be to appeal to the broadest possible market. For example, excellent transport links may not be a priority for your multi-vehicle family, but they are integral to the daily commute for others. Conversely, a large garden may be essential for your personal circumstances but would perhaps be too much for many to maintain.
Contemplate Your Ideal Tenant
Consider the dynamic that you are hoping to appeal to.
A three-bed semi-detached property is likely to attract families looking for a home with longevity. Priorities will include proximity to local schools as well as excellent transport links. Outdoor space and off-street parking are also factors that will help to elevate the rental yield and encourage tenants to renew their contracts.
Whereas, one-bed flats are likely to attract young professionals, or even students who would prefer a little more privacy than the standard house share can offer. City centre locations appeal far more to these tenants, who like to have amenities right on their doorsteps.
Proximity to green spaces and supermarkets will always increase the desirability of your rental property, regardless of your target market. Moreover, the carbon footprint of a home is becoming an increasingly important factor for many tenants. An environmentally friendly home will help reduce monthly utility bills and the damage to the environment, which is crucial for many searching for their ideal rental.
Selecting the Perfect City
Choosing the ideal city for your first buy-to-let will ultimately rest on two factors: your long term goals and your budget.
Those who have a large initial investment pot may opt for a one or two-bedroom flat in London. The rental yields in the capital are not as high as in many other cities due to the inflated purchase cost. However, the growth throughout ownership can be truly astronomical. Those opting for property with a vision to sell before retirement would be wise to focus their search around London.
Conversely, those with a more modest investment pot, focusing on supplementing their monthly income, would be wise to consider a northern city such as Manchester or Liverpool. The lower cost of housing means you will be afforded more choice and flexibility, and the annual rental yields are often much more robust.
Focusing on cities that are undergoing significant regeneration is an excellent idea. New businesses, educational establishments and young professions will be eager to get a taste of what the area has to offer.
For many years, landlords believed they needed to be close to their rental properties to guarantee success. However, the considerable growth in quality investment companies and lettings agents means investing further afield is now an extremely straightforward process.
Off Plan Homes for High Rental Yields
Off-plan property investment is the most stress-free strategy.
It involves purchasing a home before its completion, removing the prospect of wasted property viewings and stressful bidding wars. In return for your early security, developers offer significant discounts, and investors can often negotiate extras such as furniture packages and legal fee contributions.
Due to the robust market in the UK and the steady growth of house prices, the property will have increased in value before you have even welcomed tenants inside. So, off-plan homes are the ideal solution for landlords who are prioritising both capital appreciation and rental yield.
Getting The Home Ready For Tenants
It’s no surprise that most rental properties are painted in neutral tones and fitted with wooden flooring or plain carpets. This not only keeps the property bright and fresh but enables it to appeal to the broadest range of tenants.
All fixtures and fittings should be in excellent condition, with electric appliances safety tested. Taking care of the property before the tenancy commencement sets the right tone for the incoming occupants.
Prior to tenants moving in, you should take an inventory of the property, noting any defects present. Then, give the occupants the chance to view and sign this document, eliminating many disputes regarding property damage at the end of the tenancy.
Offering an element of flexibility allows you, as the landlord, to increase the monthly rental charge. This might include allowing tenants to redecorate or bring pets into the home. This will not only boost the annual yields but encourages long and happy tenancies.
The Benefits of Working With Professionals
Whatever stage of your property journey you are at, working with professionals will lead to the smoothest buy-to-let journey.
A dedicated property investment company will unlock a plethora of new off-plan properties not readily available to the general public. This routinely saves investors a staggering amount of time, stress and money.
Moreover, an effective lettings management team can deal with every aspect of your tenancy and generally work on a bespoke basis to meet your specific needs. These services range from sourcing, vetting and moving in your tenants, to collecting rent and dealing with any maintenance issues.
Property Investment Experts
This article was written by the team at Track Capital, who are experts in matching investors with their ideal properties. We work with individuals at all levels, from those searching for their first investment to those building an empire.
Check out our property news round-ups or contact our team for a no-obligation chat today.
