In this three-minute read, we look at the growing calls for tougher action against rogue landlords. Councils are coming under increasing pressure to takelandlordsto taskwhoeither don’t know or don’t abide by lettings legislation. The demand for stricter enforcement is coming from twosides;tenants’ rights groups and the private rental sector itself. TheNational Residential Landlords...
In this two-minute read, we ask if it’s wise to buy a rental property inLondonwith a buddy. Purchasing a buy-to-let property with a friend is an appealing prospect – on paper, at least. But it’s important to carefully weigh up the risks and rewards before taking the plunge. Here’s a list of the pros and cons of becoming a landlord with a friend. The pros The role of a landlord comes with a...
In this two-minute read, we explore issues in your home that could be making you feel unwell and how to cure them. For most of us, our home is a haven. But what if it is making you ill? Mould and damp Mould and damp are caused by excess moisture in the home – perhaps due to leaking pipes, roof damage, or condensation build-up. They can cause respiratory issues, nausea and vomiting, and general...
In this three-minute read, we look at how to gauge if an agent is giving you an honest property valuation. The first question a seller always asks an estate agent is: “How much can you sell my property for?”. The second is: “What is your fee?”. This focus on price and fees makes perfect sense; understandably every seller in London wants to get the best possible property deal. But before you jump in...
In this two-minute read,we look atfivefundamental ways landlords inLondoncan make their rental properties more profitable. Some people think the only way landlords can make more profit is toincreasetheir tenants’rent, butthat is only an option if the market supports it.Relying on this strategyis unlikely to provide significant gains. Thefivesuggestionswe’re about to share with you can increase your...
In this three-minute read, we look at the steps London landlords can take to protect against a tenant falling into arrears. Landlords have always worried about tenants falling behind in the rent, but that fear feels particularly pertinent right now due to the pandemic. There are many reasons why a tenant might be unable to pay their rent – such as illness, job loss, or relationship breakdown – but...
In this two-minute read, we look at the basic amenity that billions of people live without. ? Britsspend a penny,Americans use thejohn,and the Aussies take a trip to the dunny. ? Wherever you are in the world, there are all sorts of weird and wonderful ways to describe what is one of life’s most basic functions. ? But today, the United Nations is urging us to ditch the euphemisms and speak plainly...
In thistwo-minute read, we look at a question we often get asked atMy London Home; whether being granted planning permission addsvalue to a property? The quick answer to this is nearly always a yes. Here are four waysbeing grantedplanning permission can addvalue to your property. Loftyambitions–Adding an extra bedroom A loft conversionthatadds an extra bedroom, especially with...
In this three-minute read, we look at the issuesLondonlandlords should consider before raising rents. The uptick in inflation, along with pressure on interest rates, means that many landlords will be considering rent increases right now. Before deciding on a course of action, here are some points to consider. Why would a landlord raise rents? Rising mortgage and maintenance costs. Tax and legislative...
In this three-minute read, we look at who is responsible for maintaining the garden at a rental property. The most significant property trend to emerge from the pandemic has been the surge in demand – from buyers and renters – for properties with gardens. The race for space is undoubtedly good news for landlords marketing properties with a garden, balcony, or courtyard. And it’s not just easier to...