Buy to Let Homes - How to research the market to find the best property

If you're looking to buy a property to let then the chances are that you'll have a different property checklist to someone looking to buy a home. For a start, if you're buying solely for investment purposes then it makes sense to go where you know your investment will be protected. This means buying where you are confident that house prices are stable and where you can guarantee your property will never be short of tenants. Either way you may have to look in an area that you aren't familiar with to find the best buy to let property.

Once you've chosen an area it's worth popping in to a couple of local estate agents to pick their brains. They should be able to tell you about the state of the local lettings market, what type of properties are most in demand (number of bedrooms etc), who your tenants are likely to be (professionals, students etc) and what rent you can reasonably expect. No doubt they'll also try to get you on their lettings management books, but this isn't something that you have to think about until later. It's a good idea to ask about the relative merits of letting your property furnished or unfurnished, as this will have a bearing on the total amount you will be able to spend.

They say that ‘you never get a second chance to make a first impression', and the same applies when you're trying to let a property. You're best bet is to make sure that the property is in good order and decorated in neutral tones. As a rule of thumb: properties are much easier to let if tenants view them as a ‘blank canvas' on which they can make their mark. You'll also make your life as a landlord much easier if you can minimize the amount of maintenance that might be needed. Tenants generally aren't known for their DIY enthusiasm and you'll save yourself a considerable headache by fixing all the dripping taps, squeaky floorboards and ill-fitting cupboard doors before anyone moves in. Similarly, it is also wise to think about establishing a low-maintenance garden.

Download the Buy to Let Mortages PDF Guide here - see our other free PDF guides here

Guide Contents

What are buy to let mortgages?
Buy to Let mortgage advice
Buy to let UK mortgage application
Buy to let homes - research the market
10 steps to owning a buy to let property
Buy to Let Management
Buy to let guide to mortgage cost
Buy to let FAQ eg. can I Remortgage a Buy to Let Property
Buy to Let Information - Where to get more help

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