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BECOMING A LANDLORD

Have you ever considered letting a property? Some of our customers have always had ambitions to own investment properties and build a portfolio. Others become landlords accidentally. If you are new to buy-to-let for whatever reason, this is the section for you.

first time landlords

SAVINGS VS BUY-TO-LET INVESTMENTS

With interest rates remaining low, property has long been considered a sensible investment option. Becoming a landlord is no longer the reserve of the rich and famous. You will be amazed by the type of people who now generate extra income from a second property. There is also added benefit from a lump sum when you sell the property in the future.

Generating income from a buy-to-let property does not need to be a bewildering idea, for first-time landlords, as long as you seek advice from a reputable lettings agent. We offer a full complement of services, including property management, property sales and Independent Financial Advisers. Together, they will advise you on potential rental properties to buy, suitable mortgage products, tax liabilities and the return you can expect from the investment.

In addition to finding your tenants, we will help set up the property for occupancy, look after any legal requirements and manage the property on your behalf. In the hands of an experienced agent, a buy-to-let investment should be straightforward.

THE TERM 'LANDLORD' MAY SEEM OUTDATED

The traditional view of a landlord has changed massively, driven mainly by the many ways people now find themselves becoming first-time landlords, thereby able to generate additional income. Examples include the following.

MOVING IN WITH A PARTNER

If you are in a relationship, and both partners own a property, what do you do when you move in together? In recent years we have seen a growth in couples choosing to retain one of the properties when they set up home in the other. Keeping a property as an investment is a viable option and can add extra income every month. Plus, couples can benefit from the capital built over time as the property's value grows. By reviewing your joint income and your ability to borrow, switching one of the mortgages from a residential to a buy-to-let mortgage may be possible. Depending on the capital available, in some circumstances, it can even be possible to switch both current properties into buy-to-lets and buy a third as the 'family home'.

TEMPORARY RELOCATION

Suppose you decide to take a job in another part of the country or overseas. In that case, you may need to relocate quickly or retain your home to return to after the contract has ended. Looking at the rental market is a favourable solution. Letting the property will provide an income to cover your mortgage payments, add additional income and importantly, give you back your home. If you decide to relocate permanently in later years, you can choose to continue letting or sell the property.

INHERITING A PROPERTY

It used to be the case that if a relative left a property in a Will, the asset was sold following the probate process. The proceeds split between the benefactors. However, more recently, families are considering alternative options. Some choose to keep the property as an ongoing investment, which provides regular extra income. Plus, a lump sum in the future should the family decide to sell. Renting out and selling an inherited property has its pros and cons. It is essential to consult a Financial Adviser and solicitor when weighing up the options, both from a legal standpoint and any tax implications.

LET-TO-BUY

When you find a home to buy and wish to move in a hurry, it is not always possible to sell your current property quickly enough to secure it. In this situation, you may be able to let this property to facilitate the move. The mortgage on your old property is essentially converted to a product that consents to it being covered by newly found tenants. Thus, allowing you to take out a standard residential mortgage for your new home. This process is best started with advice from a Financial Adviser. A member of our sales or lettings team can arrange an appointment for you.