Thinking of diving into the student rental market? Mortgage Advice Bureau’s Emily Hill explores some essential dos and don’ts to ensure your student buy-to-let venture is a success.
The student rental market has long been a lucrative avenue for landlords, promising high demand, competitive rental yields, and relatively low void periods. With a consistent influx of students seeking accommodation near universities, it’s an appealing sector.
However, it’s not without its unique set of challenges and responsibilities. For any landlords considering or already operating in this space, understanding the do’s and don’ts is crucial for success.
We’ve put together our top tips to help you maximise opportunities in the student buy-to-let space:
- Do your research: As always, the golden rule of property applies here – location, location, location. Prioritise properties close to university campuses, good transport links, and local amenities like shops and entertainment. Assess the existing supply of student accommodation to identify areas with high demand and strong rental growth potential. Websites specialising in student accommodation can also provide valuable insights into average rents and desired property features.
- Understand and comply with HMO regulations: Many student properties fall under the classification of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). If your property meets this definition, you will almost certainly need an HMO licence from your local council. Regulations vary by council, so it’s paramount to check local requirements, including minimum room sizes, fire safety standards, and waste disposal facilities. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines and legal repercussions.
- Prioritise safety and maintenance: Student properties often experience more wear and tear than typical family lets, so make sure you’re proactive with maintenance and repairs. Conduct regular inspections (with proper notice) to identify issues early. Ensure all gas appliances are safety checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and electrical installations are inspected every five years by a qualified electrician. Providing a comfortable and safe environment is not just a legal obligation but also essential for attracting and retaining good tenants.
- Consider all-inclusive rent: Offering all-inclusive rent (covering utilities like gas, electricity, water, and broadband) is a significant draw for students. It simplifies their budgeting and can make your property more appealing in a competitive market. Make sure to factor these costs carefully into your rental price before committing.
- Use a robust tenancy agreement: A well-drafted joint tenancy agreement is vital, making all tenants jointly and severally liable for the rent. This means that if one tenant fails to pay their share, the others are legally responsible for covering it. Ensure deposits are protected in a government-approved scheme, and provide tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and the “How to Rent” guide.
Navigating the student buy-to-let market comes with its own set of potential pitfalls. Being aware of these common missteps can save you significant time, money, and stress in the long run.
- Inform your lender: If you have a buy-to-let mortgage, you must inform your lender that you intend to let to students. Some lenders have specific criteria for student buy-to-lets or HMOs, and failing to notify them could breach your mortgage terms.
- Get insured: Standard home insurance won’t suffice for a rental property, especially a student buy-to-let. Invest in comprehensive landlord insurance that covers risks associated with letting to students, including malicious damage, loss of rent, and unoccupied periods during holidays. Rent guarantee insurance can provide additional peace of mind.
- Time management is key: Managing student properties can be more demanding than other types of lets due to the higher turnover and potential for increased maintenance requests. Be prepared for a more hands-on approach or budget for a reliable letting agent specialising in student accommodation.
- Council tax exemptions: Full-time students are generally exempt from council tax. As a landlord, you need to inform the local council that your property is occupied solely by full-time students to ensure the exemption is applied. You’ll likely need proof of their student status from the university.
- Don’t forget void periods: While student buy-to-lets often have 12-month contracts, there can be periods over the summer when the property is empty. Factor potential void periods into your financial planning, especially for properties primarily let to undergraduates who may return home for the holidays.
By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you can navigate the student buy-to-let market effectively, capitalising on its advantages, while mitigating the inherent risks and ensuring a positive experience for both you and your tenants.
With all of this in mind, consulting a specialist buy-to-let mortgage broker is highly recommended. They possess in-depth market knowledge, access to a wider range of lenders – including those with specific criteria for student buy-to-let and HMOs – and can expertly guide you through the complexities to find a deal tailored precisely to your goals and circumstances.
