Should I be investing in property?
The short answer is yes.
Firstly, organise your finances and look at possible finance options. How will you fund the purchase? If you are having a buy-to-let mortgage, your lender will need to satisfy itself that your chosen property is a good long-term investment.
Buy-to-let mortgages will typically be based on the rental income of the property rather than your salary. Rental income must exceed the mortgage monthly repayments. Consider the rent you can expect to achieve and what your yield would be; see the formula below.
You will also be required to put down a larger deposit than you would for a residential property. It will usually be anywhere from 20% of the property’s value. Your independent mortgage advisor will be able to guide you on the best deals that most suit you. Remember also to consider the possibility that there may be periods when the property is empty, and you are not receiving rent, and also factor in a contingency to cover any repair and maintenance costs.