Your Buy-to-Let Checklist

1. Ask for a discount

As a buy-to-let investor you have the same advantage as a first-time buyer when it comes to negotiating a discount, as you stand for less of a risk of a sale falling through.

2. Get clued up with the latest buy-to-let news

Read blog posts, view articles and ask around. Make sure Buy-to-let is where you want to invest your money.

3. Choose the right area

Is it close to public transport, are there schools nearby? Depending on the type of region, analyze your potential buyers and try and think of what they will look for.

4. Speak to a professional

Walking into any bank and asking for a mortgage is the worst thing that you can do. Different lenders offer different solutions some of which may suit your circumstances best. A specialist mortgage broker will be able to tell you which lender will work best for you and in the process help you save money. Remember that this is a free service and you are under no obligation to use them.

5. Do a Buy-to-let test

Do our buy-let-test and see if your property passes the test.

6. Consider the “what-if’s”

Besides your down payments and rental income, what will happen if the property is empty for a month. Will the deposit help you with falling prices?
 Most buy-to-let investors look at a 125% turnover.

7. Think of it as a long term goal.

Even though you will be making the extra income, remember that you can ultimately push up the value and use the money as a deposit for an even bigger investment. Speak to a specialist about opening a separate savings account.

8. Hire an agent or do it yourself?

An agent might charge you a fee, but this means if anything goes wrong they will be physically responsible for dealing with the problem. If you decide not to have an agent, then be prepared to give up your plans when need be.

9. Look a bit further

Buying a property in your area might not be as profitable as buying a little further away. Consider all your options before buying. If you have an agent, they are obligated to keep an eye on your property for you, so you need not base your decision on that.

10. Rather be safe than sorry

Make sure you have enough money in the bank to prepare for things that can go wrong. If you are going to spend every last penny you have than rather wait a while longer.