What To Buy & Where To Buy

The choice of property purchased will largely depend on an individual’s budget and whether or not the owner wishes to occupy the property at a later stage.

As a general guide to what and where to buy for a successful rental investment, Plaza Estates offers the following advice:

• The basic criteria for rental property are: centrally situated and in a good neighbourhood, near public transport, schools and shops. Quiet, light and airy.
• Flats should be within a 5-10 minute walk from a tube station with easy access to the City and West End.
• Although houses are popular with families looking for larger properties, the steady demand is for flats - but both are popular.
• There should be easy access to open spaces - whether private garden, roof terrace or balcony, communal gardens or parks.
• The property should be structurally sound, and able to be redecorated without incurring vast expense.
• Character properties are generally a good investment. Foreign tenants in London for a limited time like to experience the ‘flavour’ of London and period conversions are always popular.
• One or two bedroom conversion flats are good buys. Also those in newly completed developments with porterage and private parking.