Given the growth of the UK buy to let market, it should come as no surprise that there are a rising number of residential landlords entering the sector. Regardless of whether or not the wider real estate market can sustain its existing level of growth, there is a great deal of money to be made in an environment where demand far outweighs the existing supply.
While the real estate market may be an extremely profitable entity at present, however, purchasing and maintaining buy to let property represents a serious commitment. There are numerous elements required if you are to successfully protect your investment, while you also have a responsibility to look after the tenants who reside within your properties.
The Key Considerations for Novice Property Managers
Given the sheer scope of the challenges facing inexperienced property managers, it is crucial that they approach the role with a sound foundation of knowledge. Without this, it is extremely difficult manage even a single buy to let property, let alone consider expanding and developing a profitable portfolio.
The following considerations will stand you in good stead as you begin your journey in an increasingly competitive market: –
The Investment Process and Selecting a Viable Property
In terms of the investment process and selecting a buy to let purchase, your first consideration should be the geographical area where you intend to make your move. Your choice cannot be made simply by analysing current trends, however, as it is important to consider additional factors that will impact property prices in the future. After all, it is in the future that you may look to ultimately sell your home, so regeneration and proposed developments within your area of choice are pivotal factors. Once you have determined a viable region, the next step is to pick one or a number of properties in which to invest.
Determining a Prospective Tenant’s Rental Needs
From the moment you have purchased a buy to let property, you essentially have a financial asset that has the potential to deliver significant returns. In your haste to begin to achieve a return, however, you must neglect the time-consuming but important process of identifying reliable tenants. One of the best ways to achieve this is by determining the precise needs of prospective tenants, particularly in terms of their current circumstances, long-term aspirations and the financial credentials. Simply by drawing up a checklist and posing a number of direct questions to interested parties, you can create the ideal tenant portfolio and make a decision that will deliver regular and reliable returns.
Managing your Property and Planned Maintenance
Your responsibility as a residential landlord is one that stays with you every single day, and not only when a pipe bursts or some other emergency ensues. With this in mind, you may need to partner with a reputable property management firm or expert, as this will enable you to share the burden of planned maintenance and regular home inspections. Industry leaders such as Rylands Associates Limited combine this service with property surveying expertise, meaning that you can also benefit from continuity when you look to invest in additional real estate. The way in which you structure this arrangement is entirely up to you, but the most important thing is that you do so in a way that is both productive and cost-effective.