Buy-to-let investment – is it worth it?

There’s no denying that recent tax changes have made the buy-to-let market less attractive for investors. Yet it’s still a tempting option with the potential for excellent financial returns. Donna McCreadie, partner and property specialist at Perrys Chartered Accountants, looks at the current landscape and explains why buy-to-let is still a viable investment.

The demise of the buy-to-let market has been much predicted over recent years. Major tax changes, a 3 per cent stamp duty surcharge, and increasing regulation have undoubtedly deterred some from entering the market.

Existing landlords have questioned the viability of their portfolio, and some have made the decision to sell up while house prices are on the increase. Indeed, a recent survey by Nottingham Building Society found that a fifth (20%) of landlords are considering selling all, or part, of their portfolios.

Yet this means that 80% are still keen to retain their assets, suggesting that predictions of a mass exodus of landlords is highly unlikely to happen any time soon. So what are the continuing benefits of investing in buy-to-let property?

Competitive mortgage deals

After a Covid-induced lull, summer 2021 saw a surge of competitive buy-to-let mortgage deals, with many lenders increasing maximum loan to value (LTV) amounts from 75% to 80%. This means that potential investors do not have to raise quite such a hefty deposit to secure a mortgage. For example, on a purchase price of £300,000, the deposit at 75% LTV would be £75,000, while at 80% LTV it would be a more attractive £60,000.

Despite talk of inflation and a potential increase in the Bank of England base rate, interest rates on all mortgages remain historically low. In the buy-to-let arena, lenders have started to reduce interest rates and offer fee-free options.

Rise in rental demand

Buying an investment property is the first step, but how can you be sure of finding a tenant? The good news is that rental demand has picked up significantly since the last UK lockdown ended in spring 2021.

The estate agency trade body Propertymark reported a record number of new prospective tenants registering for homes in May. In June this year, there was an average number of five viewings before a property was let, indicating strong demand and confirming that landlords are generally able to choose the most suitable tenant for their property.

According to the English Housing Survey, nearly one in five households in England live in the private rented sector – that equates to over 4.4 million households nationwide. 17% live in the social rented sector and 65% are owner-occupiers.

With property prices continuing to rise, homeownership is becoming increasingly unrealistic for many. Some experts predict that the UK will become a nation of predominantly renters by 2045, with 55% per cent of the population living in the rental sector.

Increased regulation – a recipe for happier tenants?

It’s fair to say that most landlords will greet news of extra regulation with a groan rather than a cheer. In recent years the number of regulations has increased, with myriad laws and obligations that every landlord must abide by. These include anything from fitting smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to issuing annual gas safety certificates and ensuring that electrical devices are safe to use.

While these measures may eat into a landlord’s time and profit, it should never be forgotten that they have been introduced for a good reason. Landlords have a responsibility to ensure tenant safety and rectify any repairs or faults within a reasonable time frame.

In the long term, this can only be a benefit: recent data from the English Housing Survey shows that 83% of private renters are very or fairly satisfied with their accommodation. Happy tenants can lead to longer-term lets, thereby minimising the risk of missed rental income while a flat or house is left empty.

Your investment has the power to grow

With interest rates continuing to remain so low, cash kept in savings accounts has little or no return. Historically, property in the UK has proved a sound investment. Despite a property value crash at the start of the 1990s and another slump following the 2008 global financial crisis, house prices have risen astronomically over the long term, with current property prices at an all-time high.

In 1980 the average property cost was around £20,000 and today it is just over £250,000. This means there are two potential profit channels when you enter the buy-to-let market: rental yield and the chance to make a good return if property prices go up and the decision is made to sell.

Discuss the pros and cons with an expert

It’s clear there are still many reasons why property investment remains a sensible financial move. There’s much to consider, however, including the tax implications, upfront stamp duty costs and letting agent fees if you decide to outsource the management of the property.

Speaking to an accountant with expertise in the buy-to-let market is always advisable before committing to a purchase. As a potential landlord, it’s important to carefully consider your current income position, future financial goals, and your obligations towards your tenants.

For anyone just starting out, it can seem a daunting landscape. But with the right advice and realistic expectations, the rewards could easily outweigh the challenges.

Source: Property Reporter, 17^th November 2021