Knowledge Centre

Landlords urged to 'watch for investment bargains'

street with houses and flats for sale
The credit crunch could be music to the ears of a prudent investor, according to the National Landlords Association (NLA).

The group has released a list of top tips to help landlords flourish during the economic downturn, and it says that there are good opportunities to be had.

The NLA's advice includes suggestions to research the local market thoroughly and charge slightly under the average rent, and to plan ahead to ensure that there is no rental 'void' between tenants.

Other tips include to maintain a good relationship with tenants, and to be sure that proper insurance is in place.

The advice comes at a time when the property rental market remains strong, amid demand from potential first time buyers finding it difficult to get on the property ladder.

NLA chairman David Salusbury said that proper advice for landlords is critical.

He said: "It's now been 12 months since the credit crunch became part of everyday conversation.

"Although in leaner times we all need to be a little more prudent, for professional landlords with an eye for a bargain, there could well be rich pickings.

"Rumours of massive increases in rent are probably being overplayed, but there is certainly a hike in demand for decent and well-placed property rentals."
Tags: Landlord

Business insurance is issued by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (Reg No. 202323). All offers subject to availability. For your protection, telephone calls may be recorded or monitored. Discounts based on prices available for like-for-like RSA policies. Apart from Van where following our May 2008 rate review over 10% of customers could pay at least 25% less. Half price breakdown is available to customers buying a Van or Business Car policy starting on or before 31st December 2008. Standalone breakdown is not available.