Using Property As A Side Hustle: What To Consider

Exploring property as a side hustle? You're in the right place. 

Our comprehensive guide dives into everything you need to know, from market insights to financial nuances. Whether you're a first-time investor or looking to expand your portfolio, we'll walk you through the essentials of making informed decisions in the UK property market. 

Let's unlock the potential of property investment together.

Get to grips with the property market

Getting into property investment can be exciting, but it's vital to have your finger on the pulse of the market. 

Here’s what you need to know.

 

Current market trends

 

The UK property market is as dynamic as it is diverse. 

While cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh often see high demand, it's crucial to keep an eye on emerging hotspots. Over the last few years, for example, there has been a rise in demand for suburban and semi-rural properties, partly due to the shift towards remote work. 

It's also worth noting that while house prices have been steadily rising, this trend isn't uniform across the UK, so don't just follow the crowd – do your homework!

 

Local market research

 

Every area has its quirks, and what works in one place might not in another. 

Start by researching local property prices, rental yields, and the average time properties stay on the market. 

Also, consider factors like local employment rates, transport links, and amenities – these greatly affect a property's attractiveness to potential tenants or buyers.

 

Types of properties

 

When thinking about property types, consider your target market. 

Are you eyeing young professionals, families, or perhaps holidaymakers? Each group has different needs. For example, flats in city centres might appeal to professionals, while larger homes are better suited for families. 

Don't forget about holiday lets either – they can be lucrative, especially in popular tourist destinations, but they do require a different approach in terms of management and marketing.

Financial considerations

Diving into property investment is as much about numbers as it is about bricks and mortar. 

Let’s break down the financial aspects you need to consider.

 

Initial investment

 

The first step is understanding the upfront costs. 

These aren't just about the purchase price of the property. You'll also need to factor in stamp duty, solicitor fees, and potential renovation costs. It's not small change, so think about how you'll finance this. Savings, loans, or perhaps a buy-to-let mortgage? 

Each option has its pros and cons, and it's all about what works best for your financial situation.

 

Mortgages and interest rates

 

If you're considering a mortgage, remember that buy-to-let mortgages differ from standard residential ones. 

They usually require a larger deposit and have higher interest rates. Lenders will also want to see evidence that the rental income will cover the mortgage payments, typically 125-130% of the monthly payment. 

Keep an eye on interest rates too – they can significantly impact your return on investment.

 

Budgeting for ongoing expenses

 

Owning a property isn't just about the initial outlay. 

You've got ongoing costs to consider – think maintenance, insurance, and council tax. If you're renting out the property, there might be periods when it's vacant, so you'll need to budget for this too. 

And let's not forget potential emergency repairs – it's always wise to have a contingency fund.

Legal and regulatory aspects

Navigating the legal landscape of property investment in the UK is a must. Here’s a rundown of what you need to know.

 

Key legislation

 

The Law of Property Act 1925 and the Land Registration Act 2002 are the cornerstones of property law in England and Wales. 

The 1925 Act consolidates and modernises real estate law, establishing principles like the types of estates and interests in land that can exist legally. The Land Registration Act governs the registration of land ownership and rights, a vital step managed by the Land Registry, a government agency​​.

 

Ownership and registration requirements

 

In the UK, anyone over 18 can buy and sell freehold land, regardless of nationality. However, recent changes have affected overseas entities. 

The Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act 2022 mandates that overseas entities owning or wishing to own UK land must register with Companies House. This includes providing detailed information about the entity and its beneficial owners. 

Non-compliance with this registration can lead to significant legal consequences, including inability to register as the legal owner of the land at the Land Registry​​.

 

Types of property rights

 

Understanding different property rights is crucial. 

In England and Wales, you'll find freehold, leasehold, and commonhold ownership rights. Legal rights over land, like legal charges, must be created by deed. 

There are also equitable rights, often contract-based, and prescriptive rights that can arise from long-term use without challenge​​.

 

Sale and purchase agreements

 

When it comes to transactions, English law is quite specific. 

Sales agreements must be in writing, include all agreed terms, and be signed by all parties. For registered land, transfers must be in a prescribed form and registered at the Land Registry to confer legal title. 

It’s important to note that the principle of caveat emptor applies, meaning the buyer has the responsibility to investigate the property's title and raise enquiries. Sellers must disclose known encumbrances and latent defects but aren't obliged to disclose everything​​.

Managing the property

Once you've got the keys in hand, the real work begins. Managing a property efficiently is key to making your investment pay off.

 

Self-management vs property management companies

 

First up, decide if you're going to manage the property yourself or get a property management company on board. 

Doing it yourself can save money, but it's time-consuming and requires a good understanding of legal responsibilities and tenant relations. A management company, on the other hand, takes a lot off your plate, from finding tenants to handling maintenance issues, but at a cost.

For more on self-management vs property management, check out these articles:

• 7 Dangers Of Self-Managing Property Investments
• Renting Out Property For The First Time: New Landlord Guide
• 7 Reasons Why Full Management Makes Sense

 

Finding and vetting tenants

 

Finding the right tenant is crucial. 

Advertise your property effectively, whether through online platforms, local agencies, or word-of-mouth. Once you've got applicants, thorough vetting is a must – think credit checks, references, and employment verification. 

This helps ensure you get reliable tenants who will take care of your property.

 

Dealing with maintenance and complaints

 

Maintenance is an ongoing aspect of property management. 

Regular inspections can help catch issues early. Be prepared for emergency repairs too – having a network of trusted tradespeople can be a lifesaver. Lastly, if tenants have complaints, address them promptly and professionally. 

Good communication can resolve most issues amicably and maintain a positive landlord-tenant relationship.

Risks and rewards

Property investment goes beyond the potential profit to be made; it's also about understanding and managing the risks.

 

Potential financial gains

 

Investing in property can be a lucrative side hustle. 

The right property in the right location can provide a steady stream of rental income and long-term capital growth. But remember, property values can fluctuate, so think long-term.

 

Risk factors

 

Every investment comes with risks. The property market can be volatile, and you might face periods of vacancy. 

There's also the possibility of encountering difficult tenants or unexpected repair costs. Being prepared for these scenarios is crucial.

 

Risk mitigation strategies

 

The key to successful property investment is risk management. 

Diversifying your investments can help. Don't put all your eggs in one basket – consider different property types and locations. Regular property maintenance and thorough tenant vetting can also reduce risks. 

Lastly, staying informed about market trends and legislative changes will help you make informed decisions.

Long-term planning

Successful property investment isn’t just about the present; you need to be constantly looking ahead. 

Here's how you can plan for the long term.

 

Building a property portfolio

 

If you're in it for the long haul, consider expanding your portfolio. This could mean investing in different types of properties or diversifying across various locations. 

As your portfolio grows, so does your income potential and your resilience against market fluctuations.

 

Considering exit strategies

 

Always have an exit strategy. 

Whether it’s selling at a market high, leasing your properties, or passing them on as part of an inheritance, knowing your endgame is vital. Market conditions change, so be flexible and ready to adapt your strategy.

 

Tax implications and estate planning

 

Don’t forget about the taxman. 

Property investment comes with various tax implications, including income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax. Proper estate planning ensures that your investment benefits your loved ones in the future. 

Seeking advice from a tax specialist or financial advisor is a wise move to make the most of your investment while staying compliant.

Established back in 1908, Petty’s has been helping people make their move for well over 100 years. As a family-run business, we thrive on making property dreams come true and providing a personal touch to every interaction we have with our clients. You’ll never be ‘just another number’ with us.

So, if you’re looking for a partner in your new venture, give our friendly team a call today to find out why we have stood the test of time and continue to stand out from the crowd.