Operating a successful property portfolio as a landlord can be difficult. It can be particularly hard for those who are new to the sector, or for people who find themselves in and out of the country. With constantly changing regulations and a fluid rental market in the UK, there can be much to keep on top of. Making sure that rental properties – and tenants – are taken care of properly can result in boosted returns and a long and successful career as a landlord.
The Private Rented Sector (PRS) in England is a thriving. The latest information from the English Housing Survey indicates a fifth of the population now rents privately, including nearly two million families with children. With attitudes toward home ownership changing and a new generation of long term renters relying on the PRS, there is a bigger call than ever for high quality rental accommodation and with that, a large proportion of new and already existing landlords who are crucial to the long term success of the sector.
Along with growth, there is much talk happening around improving the rental sector for tenants and landlords which has meant changes being implemented to make sure that things are as good as they can be. This includes new bills going through parliament such as the ‘Fitness for Human Habitation and Liability of Housing Standards’ bill which looks to make sure that all rental properties are up to scratch for tenants, new laws coming into place regarding Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in April and new measures which aim to stamp out rogue landlords from operating, again coming in to place from April 2018.
The latest data from December 2017 shows that rents across the UK increased by 1.7% year on year and the average UK monthly rent now sits at a healthy £907, meaning that across the country there are excellent investment opportunities available. In addition, rising demand means that void periods are becoming increasingly less common. There really has never been a better time to be a landlord in the UK.
Intus Lettings is a nationwide lettings and management agent which provides a seamless and professional service to both landlords and tenants. The experienced Intus team operates multiple offices, managing property on behalf of landlords across the UK, and is committed to providing the best possible customer service.
If you’re looking for advice on the UK rental market, or would like to find out how you can save money on your lettings and management fees, join Intus Lettings at the Leopold Hotel in Sheffield on Wednesday 21st February. Drop in anytime between 12pm – 8pm to speak to the team about how we can help you manage your portfolio.