If you own a property with a driveway, you may soon face new financial implications. The proposed “driveway tax” could result in charges based on the size and type of your driveway, affecting many homeowners across the UK. Being aware of these potential costs and how to mitigate them is crucial for your budget and…
As the Labour Party prepares to introduce potential tax reforms, landlords are understandably concerned about how these changes might impact their investments. The proposed changes could significantly alter the way you manage your properties, particularly in terms of capital gains tax and overall profitability. Understanding the specifics of Labour’s tax plans is crucial for making…
The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to reshape the landscape of the rental market, affecting both tenants and residential landlords. This legislation introduces key changes that protect tenants from unfair practices while holding landlords accountable for their responsibilities. Understanding these changes can empower you, whether you’re a tenant seeking security or a landlord navigating new…
Being a landlord involves more than just collecting rent; it comes with a variety of financial responsibilities that can impact your profitability. Understanding the various landlord costs, from mortgage payments and maintenance expenses to legal fees and tax obligations, is essential for effective property management. Each of these expenses can significantly influence your bottom line,…
Finding an affordable place to live in the UK can be challenging, especially as rental prices continue to rise in many urban areas. If you’re looking for the cheapest places to rent, regions like Dumfries and Galloway and cities such as Hull and Burnley stand out with significantly lower average rents. Knowing where to look…
When a landlord conducts an inspection, they check various aspects of the property to ensure it is being maintained properly. Typically, they evaluate the general cleanliness, the condition of fixtures and fittings, and any necessary repairs. This process helps identify issues like dampness, mould, or damage that could affect the living conditions of tenants. You…
As a landlord, protecting your rental property is crucial, and that’s where landlord insurance comes into play. This insurance typically covers various risks associated with your rental properties, including property damage, legal liabilities, and loss of rental income. Understanding what your policy includes can save you from significant financial strain in unexpected situations. Many landlords…
As a commercial landlord, you hold significant responsibilities that are essential for the safety and wellbeing of your tenants. Understanding these responsibilities not only protects your investment but also fosters positive relationships with your tenants. From ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations to maintaining the structure and systems of the property, your role is…
If you’re a landlord in the UK, you’re likely well aware of the obligations that come with renting out property, one of the most crucial being the self-assessment tax return. Navigating tax regulations can be daunting, but understanding your responsibilities as a landlord is essential. Ensuring you file your tax return accurately can save you…
When your landlord decides to sell the property you’re renting, it might bring up a mix of questions and uncertainties. Your rights as a tenant remain valid even if the landlord is selling the property. The most significant aspect to understand is that your tenancy agreement isn’t automatically terminated with the sale of the house.…
Navigating the housing market as a first-time buyer can be daunting, especially when financing a deposit seems overwhelming. Enter the Rent to Buy scheme, a potential solution that offers a unique pathway to home ownership. This scheme allows you to rent a property at a discounted rate, typically 20% below the market value, providing you…
Becoming a live-in landlord offers a unique opportunity within the private rented sector, allowing you to share your home with a tenant or lodger while generating additional income. A live-in landlord, also known as a resident landlord, is when you rent part of your permanent residence to someone else. This setup can be beneficial in…
When renting a property in the UK, the question of who’s responsible for painting often arises. As a tenant or landlord, it’s crucial to understand your rights and obligations. In general, landlords are responsible for maintaining the property’s structure and keeping it in good repair, which includes regular painting. This applies particularly at the start…
Are you considering renting your house to the council? It’s a decision that could provide a stable income stream while helping your local community. The amount the council will pay depends on various factors, including your property’s size, location, and condition. Generally, councils aim to pay around 30% below market rates for private rentals. This…
When you’re moving out of a rented property, getting your deposit back promptly is often a top priority. The timeframe for a landlord to return your deposit can vary, but there are guidelines in place to protect tenants. In the UK, landlords must return your deposit within 10 days of you both agreeing on the…
Landlord inspections are a crucial aspect of property management. Regular checks allow you to maintain your investment and ensure your tenants are complying with the tenancy agreement. Quarterly inspections are recommended to keep track of your property’s condition and address any issues promptly. As a landlord, you have the right to inspect your property, but…
When rodents invade your rented property, the responsibility largely falls on your landlord to resolve the issue, particularly when the infestation pre-exists your tenancy or is linked to the building’s condition. In the UK, a landlord is expected to address a rodent problem promptly once they are notified. This urgency is vital because pests can…
Navigating the evolving landscape of landlord regulations can be challenging, especially with the new 2024 rules set to transform the private rented sector in England. From ending Section 21 evictions to the introduction of a Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman, these changes aim to enhance security and fairness for both landlords and tenants. Understanding these…
Renting a property can be a rewarding endeavour, but there are important considerations to ensure a smooth experience. Whether you’re an experienced landlord or just starting, having a comprehensive landlord checklist is essential to protect your interests and provide a positive experience for your tenants. A well-prepared checklist includes key steps such as ensuring your…
Becoming a landlord can be a lucrative venture, offering you the opportunity to invest in property and earn a steady income. Whether you’re looking to rent out a room or secure your first rental property, understanding what it takes is essential for success. To become a landlord, you need to budget for essential costs, find…
Navigating the complexities of selling a buy-to-let property while minimising tax liability can be challenging for landlords. Whether you’re an experienced investor or new to the property market, understanding the available options is crucial. To pay less tax when selling your buy-to-let property, consider strategies such as utilising annual tax-free allowances, offsetting selling expenses, or…
Navigating the world of property rental can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding licensing requirements. A landlord licence is essential if you plan to rent out your property legally and responsibly in specific areas, ensuring your accommodation meets safety and decency standards. This requirement exists to protect tenants and maintain a fair rental…
Navigating the complexities of the property market as a landlord with a usual abode outside the UK? You’re not alone. The Non-Resident Landlord Scheme is a crucial system established by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to ensure fair taxation of your UK rental income. For non-resident landlords, understanding your tax obligations can ensure compliance and…
Navigating the world of rental property can be complex, but understanding the tax implications is crucial for any landlord in the UK. When managing rental income, you need to know how it affects your tax situation. Your rental income is added to your other income, which can push you into a higher tax bracket. For…
British Gas landlord cover is a type of insurance that protects property owners from unexpected repair costs. This cover helps landlords manage their rental properties with peace of mind. It typically includes repairs for heating systems, electrical wiring, and plumbing issues. British Gas landlord cover usually costs between £15 to £30 per month, depending on…
The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 is a key piece of legislation that governs commercial property leases in England and Wales. It sets out the rights and obligations of both landlords and tenants when a business lease comes to an end. This act gives business tenants the right to stay in their premises and renew…
Property management is a key part of owning and renting out real estate. It covers many tasks that keep buildings running well and tenants happy. Good property managers take care of day-to-day issues and plan for the future. Sensible property management means using smart, practical methods to take care of buildings and keep costs down.…
Renting a house from a private owner can be a great option for many people. It often provides more flexibility and personalised service compared to renting from a company. Private owners may offer unique homes, better deals, and faster response times to issues. When looking for a house to rent from a private owner, it’s…
Renting has become a popular choice for many people in recent years. Some view it as a flexible option, while others wonder if it’s just throwing money away. This question sparks debate among financial experts and everyday consumers alike. Renting is not always a waste of money, as it can provide benefits like flexibility and…
End of tenancy cleaning is a crucial step when moving out of a rental property. It helps tenants get their deposit back and ensures the place is ready for new occupants. A thorough clean can make a big difference in the landlord’s impression and the return of the security deposit. Many tenants underestimate the time…
Landlord emergency cover is a type of insurance that protects property owners from unexpected and urgent problems. It provides quick assistance for issues like burst pipes, electrical failures, or broken heating systems. This coverage helps landlords avoid costly repairs and keeps tenants safe and comfortable. Landlord emergency cover typically includes 24/7 access to qualified tradespeople…
Being a guarantor for rent can seem like a kind way to help someone secure housing. But it comes with real risks. A guarantor agrees to pay the rent if the tenant can’t. This means the guarantor takes on big financial responsibilities. Guarantors often face tough choices if a tenant stops paying. They might need…
Ensuring your tenant has the right to rent is a crucial step for any landlord in the UK. To check your tenant’s right to rent, you must verify their original documents or use an online share code. This process helps confirm whether they can legally rent your property. You can use a share code to…
Managing a rental property can be a rewarding investment, but it comes with its challenges and expenses. Property management costs in the UK typically range from 10% to 25% of the rental income. These fees cover a variety of services provided by property managers, from tenant placement and lease renewal to maintenance and inspections. As…
If you’re looking to rent a property in England, you need to prove your right to rent. This requirement applies to both landlords and tenants to ensure compliance with immigration laws. To prove your right to rent, you can use a share code, which is obtained online through the Home Office if you are not…
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) have become an essential consideration for landlords and tenants alike. The legal requirement to obtain an EPC for rented properties was established in 2007 under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. Starting from 2008, landlords have been required to provide an EPC to new tenants, ensuring that the property meets minimum…
As you navigate the current economic landscape, you may be pondering the stability of the housing market. Speculation is rife with talks of a potential housing market crash and it’s essential to recognise the signs that may indicate a downturn is on the horizon. Understanding these signals is crucial, as they can affect everything from…
Securing the right insurance is a pivotal step when purchasing a home. It shields you from financial strain that may occur due to unexpected events such as natural disasters, theft, or other property damage. For homeowners, having proper insurance in place is not just prudent—it’s often a requirement for mortgage approval. It’s essential to understand…
As a landlord, it’s essential to stay informed about the various certificates you are legally required to obtain to ensure the safety and compliance of your rental properties. Landlord certificates are official documents that prove your property meets the necessary regulations and standards set out by UK legislation. These certificates cover a range of safety…
In the UK, understanding your right to rent is crucial if you’re looking to secure a tenancy. This regulation requires landlords to check that all tenants or lodgers can legally rent residential property in England. Your nationality and immigration status play integral roles in this process, and there are specific documents and procedures you must…
When parties co-own property in the UK and decide to part ways, be it through personal circumstances or investment decisions, calculating the buyout price becomes a necessary step. The process involves determining the value of the property and establishing how much equity each party owns. An equitable buyout amount reflects the leaving party’s share of…
Embarking on the journey to rewire a house is often a daunting task for homeowners, yet it is an essential undertaking to ensure safety and functionality within a home. The cost to rewire a house can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the size of the property, the complexity of the installation, and regional…
When looking to buy a house, one of the first considerations is the deposit – the upfront amount you pay towards the cost of the property. The size of the deposit you need can vary, but typically, lenders require a minimum of a 5% deposit. For a £250,000 property, this equates to £12,500. However, the…
The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 represents a key piece of legislation in the United Kingdom that sets out the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants in a rental agreement. It consolidates various previous laws relating to rental agreements and serves to clarify the legal position of parties involved in residential letting. Central…
When a property owner in the UK passes away, understanding the legal steps that follow is important for everyone involved, be it family members, beneficiaries, or executors. If the deceased was the sole owner of the property, their estate is usually responsible for dealing with the home. The process depends heavily on whether there is…
Buying a house can be a complex and time-consuming process, which usually follows a set of stages that prospective homeowners should be aware of. Understanding these distinct phases could provide you with a clearer roadmap and can help alleviate stress. It typically begins with determining how much you can afford and securing a mortgage agreement…
When considering the sale of your house, understanding estate agent fees is a fundamental part of the financial planning process. Estate agents typically charge a commission based on the selling price of your property. As of 2024, the average estate agent fees for selling a house in the UK are about 1.42% including VAT. This…
Determining the rental value of your house is an essential step before listing it on the market. With the proper valuation, you can set a competitive price that reflects the true worth of your property and attracts the right tenants. Several factors influence how much rent you can charge, including location, property condition, market demand,…
How Much Does It Cost to Put Your House in Trust UK: Essential Expenses Explained When considering estate planning strategies, you may be thinking about the option of placing your property into a trust. In the UK, setting up a trust can be an effective way to manage and protect your assets, potentially offering benefits…
Indemnity insurance is a common and important consideration when buying or selling property in the UK. It is a policy designed to protect the buyer from any unforeseen legal issues that may arise with the property in the future. These issues can range from defective title deeds to breaches of planning permissions or restrictions that…
Buying a house at auction can be a fast-paced and exciting way to purchase property, often at a competitive price. Unlike traditional property buying methods, auctions offer a definitive timeline with a clear end date, providing certainty of purchase within a short period. You’re likely to encounter a diverse range of properties, from residential homes…
Building a house in the UK is an ambitious venture and the costs associated vary greatly depending on a myriad of factors. Understanding the financial implications of constructing a home from scratch is crucial as they can influence the size, location, design, and materials of your build. The overall cost to build a house includes…
The Non-Resident Landlord Scheme is a tax scheme implemented by the HMRC in the UK. The scheme is designed to ensure that non-resident landlords pay the correct amount of tax on their UK rental income. Under the scheme, letting agents and tenants are required to deduct basic rate tax from the rent they collect on…
Buying a council house in the UK has long been a gateway to homeownership for many tenants, offering the opportunity to secure a permanent residence and invest in one’s future. With the government’s Right to Buy scheme, eligible council tenants have been able to purchase their homes at a discount. Yet, navigating the evolving regulations…
Buying a house without a deposit may seem impossible, but it is a possibility for some people. It’s a popular topic among first-time homebuyers who are struggling to save up for a deposit. While it’s not always easy to get a mortgage without a deposit, there are options available. One option is to look for…
As landlords, you hope that tenants will always pay their rent on time and that you will never have to resort to evicting them. However, there are times when eviction is necessary, and it’s important to know who is responsible for paying the associated court costs. In the UK, the cost of evicting a tenant…
A notice to quit represents a critical document within the private rental sector, serving as an official communication by which a landlord informs a tenant of the intent to terminate the tenancy. This document sets in motion the process that could ultimately lead to a tenant’s departure from the rental property. It is incumbent upon…
Are you a pet owner looking for a rental property? Or a landlord considering allowing pets in your rental property? Either way, you may be wondering about the rules and regulations surrounding pets and rental properties. One common question is whether landlords are allowed to refuse pets. The short answer is that landlords can refuse…
Selling a house can be a stressful and expensive process, and it’s important to understand the costs involved before you put your home on the market. So, how much does it cost to sell a house in the UK? The answer is that it can vary depending on a number of factors, including the value…
Rent guarantees are a popular option for landlords looking to protect their rental income. Essentially, a rent guarantee is an agreement between the landlord and a third-party company, whereby the company agrees to pay the landlord a set amount of rent each month, regardless of whether the property is occupied or not. While this may…
Rent guarantee can provide landlords with peace of mind, knowing that they will still receive rental income even if their tenants default on their payments. However, with so many rent guarantee providers in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are some tips to help landlords find a reputable rent…
Investing in real estate is a lucrative venture that offers a steady source of income. However, managing rental properties can be a daunting task and may require the services of a property management company. While professional property managers can ease the stress of handling rental properties, you may be wondering how much it costs. In…
If you’re a property owner, you might have heard about property management companies and wondered what services they offer. In this article, we’ll discuss the different services your property management company can provide to help make your life as a landlord easier. Understanding Property Management Companies Firstly, it’s important to understand what property management companies…
Owning a rental property can be a great source of passive income, but it also requires significant effort and responsibility to ensure a successful and profitable rental experience. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or an experienced property owner, there are key steps and practices to follow to prepare and manage your rental property. In this…
If you are a landlord in the UK, managing a rental property can be a daunting task. Whether you are renting out a single room or an entire building, there are numerous responsibilities to consider. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about property management for rental properties in the UK.…
As a landlord, you have a number of responsibilities that you need to fulfil in order to ensure that your tenants are safe and happy in their rented accommodation. These responsibilities include maintaining the property to a safe and habitable standard, ensuring that any repairs are carried out promptly and efficiently, and complying with all…
If you own a property in the UK and are interested in renting it out to the council, there are certain things you need to know. In this article, we will cover all the important points you need to consider when renting your property to the council. From understanding the council housing scheme to eligibility…
Are you interested in learning more about the cost of guaranteed rent scheme? If so, you’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will provide you with an in-depth overview of guaranteed rent, its benefits and drawbacks, as well as how to choose the right provider for your needs. Read on to find out…
When considering renting a home, it is important to be aware of all the options available to property owners and tenants. One such option is guaranteed rent, which is a service that provides landlords with secured payments over a fixed period of time. This article will provide a detailed guide on how guaranteed rent is…
With the current economic climate and anxiety caused by the uncertainties of the future, many landlords and tenants have sought a way to minimize financial risks while still deriving significant value from renting out properties. One option that has been gaining traction is guaranteed rent schemes, wherein a landlord agrees to rent out the property…
As a property owner, it’s essential to understand the various regulations that apply to your property to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to property compliance in the United Kingdom, covering building regulations, planning permission, environmental regulations, health and safety regulations, fire safety regulations, and landlord and tenant regulations. Introduction Before diving…
Introduction As a rental property owner, it’s important to have a solid understanding of rental property accounting. Properly tracking your income and expenses can help you make informed decisions about your property, ensure compliance with tax laws, and maximize your profitability. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of rental property accounting and provide some…
Being a landlord can be difficult because you can’t always rely on your tenants to pay on time, and you go through times when you don’t have tenants at all. There are options for you to be guaranteed your rent payments, but are guaranteed rent schemes worth it? Guarantee rent is worth it because landlords…
If you own a property, you may be trying to rent it out to another person. This is a great way to make supplemental income and help someone find a place to live. While being a landlord can be a great experience, what should you do when your tenant stops paying rent or begins to…
Being a landlord can cause a lot of stress, especially if a tenant is unreliable when it comes to paying rent. What if there was a way to guarantee rent money was coming in? Many landlords would be grateful for a backup like that! Rent guarantee insurance covers tenants not paying rent. It offers an…
Rent to buy is a term used for a type of contract in which the tenant has the option to purchase the leased property at the end of the lease agreement. The tenant pays rent to the landlord during the lease term and also pays a designated amount towards the purchase of the property. This…
A guarantor for rent is a person who agrees to be financially responsible for rent payments if the tenant is unable to make them. This type of arrangement may be used when the tenant has poor credit or no rental history, making it difficult to rent an apartment on their own. The guarantor typically has…
Looking to rent out your property? Whether you’re a first-time landlord or an experienced investor, our how-to guide will walk you through the process step by step. From advertising your rental to screening tenants, we’ll cover everything you need to know to find the perfect tenant and get your property rented out fast! Whether you’re…
As a renter, it’s important to know how much tax you pay on your rent income. The amount of tax you owe will depend on your rental income and the type of property you live in. In this blog post, we’ll go over the different types of rental income and taxes owed on each. We’ll…
As a landlord, you might be wondering how much rent you can raise each year. There are several factors to consider when setting your rent prices, and we’ll go over them in this article. Keep in mind that rent prices can vary depending on your location, so it’s best to consult with a local real…
Having gone through the property buying process with its highs and the lows, you’re probably feeling exhilarated at completion stage but your journey doesn’t finish there, especially if you have decided to let! Letting out a property at its first stages is no easy ride. With so much to think about and implement, it can…
Brexit effect on house prices One of the key reasons why or how will Brexit affect house prices, in a negative way, is the exodus of migrants from EU nations. Major banks relocating and the once weaker and now slightly stronger Pound stopping overseas buyers hiking the price up. The demand for rentals would fall,…
Landlord guaranteed rent schemes We all love the sound of money, especially when it comes easy and guess what, your property is easy income when you rent to the council with a landlord guaranteed rent schemes. Have you been bitten so twice shy from renting out to a council tenant? We all have had our…
Brexit has definitely shaken up the sales and rental market. It has caused instability amongst home buyers and tenants so it’s no wonder that houses are taking longer to sell and vacant properties not getting the rental income it deserves. So today’s market is definitely a buyers arena but it’s not bad news for the…
We support independent agents and landlords in London to maximise a properties rental yields by managing the paperwork and building works from a standard home to an HMO licensed property. Now think of the revenue potential you can gain from converting a 3 bedroom into a 6 multi-let property. We recently received an instruction…
Experienced professional property investors should not be too worried about the recent section 24 landlord tax changes although of course they need to be understood and considered. If an investment or particular deal can’t handle a stress test then like other deals, such as bank loans, commercial loans, mortgages, it’s not going to be a…
The Benefits of HMO to you and them. Many people think House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) property investing has lots of downfalls and can take too much time and that they are not sure it is worth the effort. Not sure it’s not worth the effort? But the many benefits of HMO property investing outweigh the…
Britain’s Housing Mess On one hand the country is facing a weakening population ageing year by year, on the other hand a health service that is not getting any better and to add the fiasco in leaving the European Union is the salt and pepper of it all. Politicians are just not brave to act…
How Much is My House Worth? You maybe thinking ‘how much is my house worth?’ and don’t want resort to agent valuations and be under their radar. This blog with help you identify factors and features to help you make your own property valuation. First of all, the first few questions that need simple…
Understanding EPC Certificate Cost If you are planning to sell or rent out your property in the UK, you will need to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). An EPC is a legal requirement that measures the energy efficiency of your property and provides recommendations on how to improve it. In this section, we will…
Property management for landlords encompasses a host of responsibilities and tasks that are crucial for the successful administration of rental property investments. It involves everything from the day-to-day operations of properties to strategic planning for long-term profitability and maintenance. Landlords must navigate the complexities of tenancy agreements, property maintenance, financial accounting, and compliance with ever-changing…
What is Rent to Rent and how does it work? Without confusing Guaranteed Rent where the whole property is paid for by a qualified estate agent for a fixed period, covering all voids, repairs, maintenance and legal cases. Rent to Rent (as seen on) is where an individual or a company rents a particular property from…
With rents in the capital continuing to boom, we’ve taken a look into the best areas to buy-to-let in London. When we’re talking about buy-to-let hotspots, London cannot be ignored with impressive capital gains and unparalleled return on investment opportunities. London which has never been in the Postcodes of Highest rental yields is still arguably…
Why do landlords prefer not to let their property to housing benefit and DSS tenants? Every person deserves an affordable, safe and secure place to live, but why should a landlord who worked very hard for their investment have to lose out? DSS tenants generally have financial difficulties and for the majority of landlords, being…
Guaranteed rent vs rent insurance policy So a Guaranteed Rent Scheme should not be confused with a Guaranteed Rent Insurance. You don’t have to declare your property vacant to the insurance company and have to wait to get your money back to cover the missing rented months. AMS Housing Group’s Guaranteed Rental Scheme gives landlords security…
Evicting Bad Tenants (Section 21) – This is the hard realty of the letting markets, the gruesome and sad position none of us would wish on others, but unfortunately, evicting tenants is a necessary but sometimes complicated process. There’s a wide range of reasons why you might want to evict a tenant, some of which…
Things can go wrong in guaranteed rent schemes if the middleman doesn’t have the financial resources, or inclination, to back up the guarantee Very much true, not everyone fully understands a service that protects the interests of their landlord clients. It’s all easy professing your sincerity with eye catching adverts touting for clients with promises…
Property Sales in London have recently given us a more clear indication of how the post-Brexit vote and weaker pound will affect the market with either strong or just reassuringly stable demand in 2017. Many estate agents agree that there is uncertainty after Brexit vote with stamp duty changes leading to fewer sales, particularly in…
Houses to rent should be guaranteed income for many landlords but even this approach is still overlooked by a significant amount of investors and by signing up to our Guaranteed Rent scheme means important advantages to our clients, the advantage of receiving monthly payments for up to 5 years, even if the property is empty…
Days of lower returns is what the property market should embrace itself to, due to the post Brexit slump. A recent Pricewaterhouse Coopers report puts London’s real estate prospects as the least attractive of all major European cities only just ahead of the bottom three of Istanbul, Athens and Moscow. The sentiment lies within 90% of investors believing UK…
After the Brexit results, surveyors suggest that the property market has stabilised and prices are expected to go on the rise within the forth coming months. RICS say a shortage of available property play a big part of this outcome. Landlords that ignored the referendum results We noticed that most of our landlords seeking property…
