The Buy to Let strategy looks attractive as an income investment for those with enough money to raise a big deposit. This is especially tue, compared to low savings rates and stock market swings.
Meanwhile, the property market bouncing back has encouraged more investors to snap up property in the hope of its value rising.
Mortgage rates at record lows are helping buy-to-let investors make deals stack up.
But beware of the low rates. One day they must rise and you need to know your investment can stand that test. Read more: How to ensure your property is safe
Buy to let strategy for expats
There is also a new tax rise came in as of 1st April 2017: a 20 percent tax credit will axe and replace the buy-to-let mortgage interest relief. Additionally, from April 2017 landlords now have to pay an extra 3% on stamp duty on property purchases.
Recent history provides an important lesson in how returns can be hit. Many buy-to-let investors who bought in the boom years before 2007 struggled as mortgage rates rose. A sizeable number were thrown a lifeline when the base rate was slashed to 0.5 percent. Rates stuck there until this summer and then they were cut again after Brexit, but remember they will rise again.
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It’s also worth noting that the Bank of England has buy-to-let mortgages in its sights.
Yet despite the tax changes and potential for buy-to-let mortgage costs to rise, there are positives. Greater demand from tenants, rents that should rise with inflation and the long horizon for interest rate rises, meaning buy-to-let will still be a tempting option for many investors.
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If you are planning on investing, or just want to know more, we can tell you the ten essential points to consider for a successful buy-to-let investment.
Like any investment, buy-to-let comes with no guarantees, but for those who have more faith in bricks and mortar than stocks and shares then this is the way to go.
West London Property Networking
Please contact Pelin Martin to book a 30-minute free property consultation on
+0208 994 7327
pm@bluecrystallondon.co.uk