Sector’s resilience amidst regulatory changes and economic pressures
Half of House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) landlords have reported that they rely solely on their property or portfolio as their primary source of income. According to a recent survey, just under 30% of participating landlords owned an HMO property or portfolio. Of these, 72% managed their HMO properties through a limited company structure.
Interestingly, half of these landlords disclosed that they did not have another occupation and depended entirely on their property investments for financial sustenance. Despite the complexities involved in managing HMOs, nearly half of the properties were self-managed by landlords. A third of these landlords owned extensive portfolios with over 20 properties.
DIY approach and property sizes
The preference for a more hands-on approach could be attributed to the popularity of smaller HMO portfolios. The survey revealed that 34% of landlords owned between 4 and 10 properties, making this the most common portfolio size. This scale allows for more manageable oversight and control without requiring external management services.
Geographically, the highest concentration of HMOs was found in London and the South East, accounting for 47% of the total. Following this, the East Midlands emerged as another significant region for HMO investments.
Steadfast confidence amidst challenges
The survey results indicate enduring confidence in the HMO sector. The market remains steadfast despite looming rental reforms and the introduction of local authority licensing schemes. The persistent housing shortage continues to fuel demand for quality, well-managed house shares.
HMO landlords have also benefited from reduced utility bills, which translates to higher net rental income. This financial improvement enhances the ability to secure larger loans against the property’s value, bolstering investment potential.
Financial relief and attractive returns
In addition to lower utility costs, regulatory changes have further supported HMO landlords. The reversal of council tax banding for individual rooms in shared houses has reinstated HMOs as single dwellings, easing the financial burden. These developments make HMO investments even more appealing and financially viable.
Investors who conduct thorough research can find HMOs a lucrative investment opportunity. The sector’s resilience amidst regulatory changes and economic pressures highlights its potential for stability and profit.
Are you thinking of investing in an HMO property?
Please get in touch with our professional advisers for further information on HMO investments or bespoke funding advice. They are ready to provide the guidance you need to capitalise on the HMO market successfully. To find out more, contact our specialists here.
Please note: this is a long term investment which you hope will generate rental income along the way and a profit when you sell the property, but bear in mind that if you need access to some cash, a property can take time to sell or remortgage. If house prices fall, you might not be able to sell for as much as you had hoped. You would have to make up the difference if the property sold for less than you owe – a risk that increases, the higher the percentage you borrow. If you sell for a profit, you may have to pay capital gains tax. Don’t forget that with a variable rate mortgage, your costs will rise if interest rates go up. This would eat into, or even wipe out, your income and profit. It is recommended that you also maintain access to emergency funds to cover your mortgage payments during ‘void periods’ that may arise whilst you have no tenant and the property is not let. Please also note: a mortgage is secured against your home or property. Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it.
