Property investments have long been a popular choice for both first time and established investors alike. If you are looking for a property investment target, there are some clear indications that student properties are currently a solid choice. Market Growth The student housing market has proven to be strong and resilient over the last couple of years, and this trend has continued throughout 2018. Student property is now one of the most profitable asset classes there is, reliably paying out excellent returns to investors who have been let down by other sectors of property investment. Overall investment in student properties is expected to end the year £5.3bn higher than last year, a strong indicator of the market’s strength. Foreign Investors Another indicator of the health and strength of the market is the rise in foreign investment, which now accounts for 65% of the capital being invested. This figure is noticeably...

As a property investor, you might walk into a building you have just bought and immediately recognise where improvements can be made. However, noticing that there is a problem and having that problem effectively rectified can prove to be two very different things. Without diligent preparation, you could too quickly see your property development work unravelling - or costing you more than was ever necessary. Here are some ways to prevent running into issues. Check whether you require permission or approval for the work Depending on the precise nature of the improvement work you are positing, you might need to obtain multiple types of permission or approval before that work can commence. Even seemingly rudimentary tweaks, like replacing windows or doors, could necessitate buildings regulations approval. Meanwhile, if you will be building a new structure or making a significant change like an extension, planning permission will typically be needed. Consider...

Landlords and property investors are taking notice of a growing trend of the Great British ‘staycation’, with a number of them looking to rent out holiday properties on a short-term basis. On the back of good weather last year – England and Wales had the warmest spring since records began in 1659 – the number of domestic trips increased by an estimated 4.7% to 58.5 million, according to new research, while expenditure is estimated to have risen by 6.2% to £14.1 billion. Fergal McGivney, senior travel analyst at Mintel, which produced the British Lifestyles report, has predicted a “slight reduction in the growth of overseas trips as some consumers opt for staycations” this year, because of the subdued growth in wages and continued Brexit uncertainty. Meanwhile, tourism chiefs at ABTA have reported that the Norfolk Broads, the West Country and the Cotswolds are proving to be popular destinations for domestic...

Ruban Selvanayagam, Co-Founder of Property Solvers, on why most private house buying companies are not “scam artists”. Today, more firms than ever before are buying properties directly from homeowners. As these are largely cash purchases, sellers can exchange and complete in considerably shorter timeframes. Sidestepping the need for estate agents, legal fees are usually paid for and some operators also offer cash advances. Sounds too good to be true?  Let’s start with a bit of background… A Short History of the Fast House Sale Industry A private property sale industry of sorts has existed in the UK for millennia.  Historically, buyers and sellers would barter amongst themselves – using a legal professional to make sure everything was done properly.  Using an estate agent is, in fact, a relatively modern concept that’s grown over the last 50 years or so.  These days, it almost seems strange to sell a property any...

Whether you are looking to increase the property value of your home or you intend to transform and make it attractive, your first option will always be carrying out remodeling and renovation. Home renovations can be accompanied by numerous unforeseen or unwelcomed surprises such as timeline delays and unexpected expenses if you do not plan effectively for this project. Fortunately, following these home renovations tips, tricks and secrets will ensure your renovation process goes smoothly. Declutter your home Decluttering your home is one of the best renovation ideas that will transform your home as it allows good flow energy throughout your home. Thorough decluttering your home helps minimizes the number of objects that may collect and keep dust in your living room. Ensure you remove all the items under your furniture, get rid of broken and outdated items and do away with overloaded closets that may interfere with your house...