Property Investment

We have been helping individuals invest in property since Sab was founded in 1959. From new-build and city developments to period rural properties, we can help. We specialise in assisting investors based in the UK as well as overseas, and in particular those investing in the Prime Central London market and Central Cambridge. If your budget does not allow for the city property prices, there are many more options available in the areas covered by our offices.

It is imperative that professional advice is sought in order to make a sound investment, which is where we come in. The first step is to get in touch with a member of our investment team so we can discuss your options.

Below are just some of the key things to consider when investing in property. If you would like to discuss how to get the best out of your investment, please get in touch with Kane Astin (MARLA) Managing Director – kane@sab.co.uk

• Location: Have you considered where you would like to buy? Have you ensured it is appealing to future tenants – has it got good transport links, amenities, schools etc?
• Budget: Know your budget prior to commencing your search. Unless you are a cash buyer, seek financial advice to determine the loan amount a buy-to-let lender is willing to provide.
• Type of property: Have you decided whether you would like to invest in a house or a flat? New-build or period property? Consider things like service charges and ground rents involved with being a lease holder, or the implications of owning an older building.
• Finance: How will you finance the investment? It is important to consider cash flow and to budget a contingency to account for unforeseen costs from repairs etc.
• Rental yield: Research the rental yield of the location in which you plan to invest. Determine the long-term benefits of offsetting mortgage payments against rental income for a fixed period to then appreciate a mortgage free income.
• Repairs: You will need to keep the property in good order. A landlord is obliged to carry out repairs to the property and its fixtures and fittings, but it is also important to keep it aesthetically pleasing to appeal to new tenants at the viewings stage, and to maintain long-term tenants once let.
• Regulations: There are over 150 rules and regulations which a landlord must abide by. These are regularly changing, and it is imperative to maintain compliance. Ensure you are up to date with legislation or use a reputable agent to manage this for you.
• Tax: When looking to buy, determine how much the Stamp Duty Land Tax percentage will be on the amount you are looking to spend. Plan for the tax payable on profits made from the rental income. Understand Capital Gains Tax which could be applicable if/ when you ultimately sell.
• Insurance: A landlord is responsible for insuring their property. If it is freehold, then you should consider buildings insurance. Always ensure there is a contents insurance policy for any of the contents that belong to you, and that the policy also has the benefit of public liability cover. Consider whether you could manage financially if your tenant lost their job or fell into financial difficulties and could not pay the rent. Rent & Legal Protection Insurance provides cover for such eventualities.

Contact us now to hear about our investment opportunities: kane@sab.co.uk