Landlords are leaving the market. And that could be exactly why now is the time to get in.
In this edition of 1066 Property Insider, we take a look at what’s really happening in buy-to-let beneath the noise of the headlines.
The shift beneath the noise
If you read the property pages this year, be forgiven for thinking buy-to-let was on its way out. Regulation. Taxation. The Renters’ Rights Act. It seems all doom and gloom
But beyond the headlines, something rather more interesting is happening. Rental properties are becoming scarcer, which means rents have risen. But in the sales market, prices have become considerably more realistic.
Put those things together, and you may well be looking at one of the strongest long-term buy-to-let opportunities we’ve seen for years.
But not a market for the amateur landlord
The catch is that this isn’t a market for the amateur landlord anymore.
The legislation has become genuinely more complicated, and compliance really does matter. If you get it wrong, it can become very expensive very quickly.
What a good landlord looks like today
The good news is that it hasn’t really changed. It’s just being held to a higher standard.
Buy the right property. Maintain it properly. Charge a fair rent. Treat your tenants reasonably. Do that, and much of the new legislation shouldn’t frighten you.
Good landlords should have good properties. Good tenants should be treated properly. And a professionally managed property should comply with the law. It really is that simple.
The maths still stacks up
Yes, landlords face higher taxation, finance and regulatory costs than they did five years ago. That’s undeniable.
But the recent rise in rents, combined with more realistic purchase prices, has gone a considerable way to balancing those additional costs. And remember, you aren’t investing for a quick win. You are potentially investing for ten, fifteen, twenty years or longer.
Where we come in
This is exactly where Rush Witt & Wilson can help. We understand the sales market. We understand the rental market. And our experienced lettings and property management teams can take on the increasingly complicated legislation and day-to-day management for you.
We don’t believe buy-to-let is dead at all. It is simply becoming a market for professionals and those with professional support.
That’s the latest from 1066 Property Insider. If you’d like to discuss building or expanding your portfolio, please give our Lettings team a call on 01424 446916. Hit play below to watch the full video.
