Investing in property

If you are contemplating buying a residential property in order to let out to tenants, it's essential that you do your homework. We have provided you with some tips on the main factors that you should consider.

Know your market

Research the market thoroughly. You can do this by checking local newspapers to see what tenants are looking for in a particular area and by talking to local estate agents. 

Get the right location

As a general rule, look for locations where properties are in demand, such as university towns, peripheral areas that are considered as 'market hot spots' and areas that provide good local amenities and access to a reliable transport system. As a further consideration, make sure, when you eventually sell, that the property is suitable for a resale and that the profile of your future buyer fits what you have to offer.

Know your numbers     

Your mortgage payments are directly related to the rent you charge, which will need to be higher to absorb the costs and to protect you during periods when the property may be temporarily unoccupied. Typically you would be required to find a deposit of approximately 25 per cent of the purchase price, and the minimum rental cover required is likely to be in the region of 130 per cent.

Get advice

Make sure that you understand the tax implications of owning a rental property. Although the rental income is taxable, you are permitted to offset interest costs, letting agent's fees and maintenance charges. 

Letting your property 

As a rule of thumb, most landlords use a letting agency to remove the hassle factor of dealing directly with tenants. Letting agents offer varying degrees of service, from 'introductions', in other words finding your tenants, to 'full management', where they collect rent, liaise with tenants about repairs or emergencies, and deal with routine redecoration requirements. You can typically expect to pay in the region of 10 to 15 per cent of your rental income for this type of letting agency service.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.