Guest post by Emma Gettings of BiG Property Finance.

There are many factors that need to be considered before making an offer. Three of the most important are:

Who to rent to?

Deciding who you are looking to target your rental property to is one of the most important first steps to make, as this will have a huge impact on the location and type of property you would be looking to buy-to-let.

For example, if you are wanting young professionals to rent your property then you will need to find a property close to good transport links. Properties within the commuter belt (outside of London) have been very popular with buyers and renters as they offer direct, easy access into the capital city.

Additionally, with students, location is also an important factor to consider. Most students look to be within walking distance to their campus and local amenities.

However, family homes could be based more around value for money, being able to rent or buy a property with enough living space, such as the number of bedrooms etc.

Why is buy-to-let getting harder?

The reason why buy to let is getting tougher is due to the fact that there are new underwriting standards in place, requiring for lenders to be stricter on the ratio of rent to mortgage repayments.

What I can expect to gain from return on investment?

It’s predicted that house price growth will continue to rise across the country. This is due to the fact that there has been a dramatic housing shortage. However investment growth with differ dependent upon the geographical areas.

For more information or to speak to one of our experts, visit www.bigpropertyfinance.co.uk or alternatively contact 0121 3487831.