British Property Remains a Safer Bet Than Stocks and Shares

Lofty apartments in London's prime boroughs, chic chalet's in the finest Alpine ski resorts of France and Switzerland, and 2 bed semi's in Salford. Spot the odd one out?

While there may be many reasons making the 2 bed semis in Salford the odd one out, investment potential is not one of them according to British institutional investors, who have invested heavily in British housing stock in the last 12-18 months, to capitalise on the current rental boom, and solidify their investments away from the tumultuous global stocks and bonds markets.

According to data just released by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, financial institutions invested £2.2 billion in UK houses and apartments in the year ending April 2011, a 189% increase over the previous year.

Specialist property companies also increased their exposure to UK buy to let during the period, the data shows that such firms purchased £7.5bn worth of UK rental properties, which is a 27 percent increase over the same period in 2010. Wealthy British individuals are also getting in on the action. They invested a combined £193.8 billion in the year ending April, which is surprisingly only a 24% increase over 2010.

The growth is hardly surprising. The financial world is a scary place, and the stock markets are even scarier. The Eurozone debt crisis is making any European investment a high risk strategy, especially now with some reports indicating that banks are putting in place contingency plans for the Eurozone's complete break-up, although few believe this will come to pass.

Never the less, this makes British property one of the few safe investments in Europe. Property is far less volatile than stocks, and of course, Britain stayed out of the euro, so, while it would suffer a shock if the Euro collapses, its property market will see a far smaller hit than those in the Eurozone.

On top of the long term safety of British property, the rental yields are currently very attractive in the short-mid term as well, with the constrained mortgage market, lack of affordability and housing shortage continually drive up rental demand. The latest data rents and yields are growing across the country. The latest Residential Lettings Survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors said that 15% more chartered surveyors reported rental yields rose rather than fell in the three months ending October. This is the 7th consecutive quarter of rising yields according to RICS.

London Property for Sale With Possibility of Extending, Queens Park

Brondesbury Villas, Queens Park, London, NW6

A spacious (826 sq ft) well presented two double bedroom two bathroom garden flat set within an attractive four storey semi-detached period property on one of the most desirable tree lined streets in Queens Park. The property is situated a short walk from Queens Park underground station (Bakerloo Line) and the variety of shops, gastro pubs and deli's along Salusbury Road.

The accommodation comprises an entrance hall with wood floors and a fitted storage cupboard; a modern family bathroom incorporating a white three piece suite with fully tiled walls/floors; an 18' front facing reception room with wood floors and a gas fireplace with wood surround; guest cloakroom and a separate fully fitted kitchen with integrated appliances.

Further benefits include a 15' master bedroom with fitted wardrobes and direct access to the private rear garden, an ensuite shower room with extractor fan, the second double bedroom with direct access to the private rear garden, side access to the 53' mature rear garden and a private front garden. The property also has potential for a single storey rear extension (Subject To Planning).

Queens Park Garden Flat for Sale

House Prices Remain Stable in November

There was no movement for house prices in the UK in November, according to the latest England & Wales House Price Index from LSL Property Services/Acadametrics.

However, just because house prices have remained static, people should not assume that they are not becoming more affordable.

David Brown, commercial director at the firm, said that zero growth means that in real terms houses are becoming more affordable.

"With inflation running at five per cent the real cost of property is getting smaller and smaller, which is good news for buyers and mortgage borrowers alike," he added.

The data showed that the average house price in the UK now stands at £220,043.

Mr Brown said that while over the past year house prices have dropped 0.7 per cent, low mortgage rates, the stamp duty holiday and the government's FirstBuy scheme have prevented larger falls.

Recent data from Halifax showed that 2011 has so far seen five months of price falls and the same number of rises, with one month of no change.

Mortgage Rate & Home Loan News

10% Increase in October Mortgage Agreements

It’s not all doom and gloomy in the mortgage market says leading broker John Charcol.

The mortgage advisory firm says that despite media reports of a subdued market place, purchase business for residential property and buy to lets is actually performing quite well and there is a glut of suitable products available.

Simon Collins, product and technical manager at John Charcol, said that it saw a ten per cent increase in the amount of mortgages agreed during October compared with the same month in 2010.

“Despite the approaching festive season, we have seen the number of good quality purchase enquiries hold up very well, so whilst the market’s not great, it’s not as bad as it’s being painted,” he stated.

Last week, the latest Mortgage Monitor from chartered surveyors e.surv found that mortgage approvals for property purchases during November reached its highest number since December 2009 and were up some 15 per cent on November 2010.

Mortgage Rate and Home Loan News

Refurbished Queens Park Apartment for Sale

Hartland Road, Queens Park, London, NW6

A newly refurbished ground floor one bedroom flat within this period terraced period house in the heart of Queens Park.

The property is situated along a popular tree lined street just a short walk to the Bakerloo and overground stations at Queens Park and the plethora of local cafes, restaurants and shops along Salusbury road.

The accommodation comprises of a reception with wood floors, high gloss open plan fitted kitchen with appliances, double bedroom with an en suite shower room and direct access to the communal rear garden.

Further benefits include a luxury fitted shower room with a heated towel rail and an extractor fan, double glazing, gas central heating, entryphone system and no upper chain.

The property has been completely refurbished and an early viewing is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

Queens Park Apartment for Sale

Landlord and Tenant News: Landlords set to expand their portfolios in 2012

The coming 12 months look set to be a boom time for buy-to-let investors, with many looking to significantly increase their property portfolios.

Research conducted by specialist mortgage provider Paragon found that landlords are practically falling over themselves to invest further funds in bricks and mortar at present despite the traditional market being subdued.

Indeed, more than a fifth of those surveyed said they will be making more property investments in 2012.

While in contrast, less than one in ten landlords claimed that they will be looking to reduce the size of their buy-to-let portfolios in the 12 months.

Thanks in part to a loosening of lending restrictions from banks and building societies, the number of properties owned by rental magnates has risen to an average of 13 this year and will continue to rise further in the next year.

Terraced property remains the most popular choice for landlords with 65 per cent of respondents saying that they owned at least one.

This was followed by flats or apartments, which are owned by 58 per cent. Semi-detached homes made up part of 48 per cent of landlord's existing portfolios while 24 per cent own a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO).

Of those questioned 77 per cent stated that they were positive about being a landlord, while 57 per cent said prospects for the rental sector in 2012 were either "good" or "very good".

"This is an interesting time for the private rented sector as landlords are experiencing very high levels of tenant demand as other areas of the housing market come under increasing strain," John Heron, Paragon Mortgages managing director, said.

"I am pleased to see that landlords are expecting to add to their portfolios as there is no sign that tenant demand is going to slow in 2012."

Iqbal Hussain, property consultant at Knight Knox International, recently said that now is the best time to buy for anyone wanting to dip their toe into the property rental market.

Property News Magazine

International Students Demand Luxury Letting Property

Cash rich students from overseas are increasingly looking at the more luxurious end of the rental market.

Jonathan Moore, director of EasyRoomMate.com, said that while student homes still often have the reputation of being far from grandiose, students are becoming more choosy and those from overseas in particular are looking for properties in more affluent districts.

"With the increase of demand from international students with bigger budgets, we are seeing a niche luxury lettings market emerge in many university towns, with investors targeting higher rents - albeit from a bigger investment," he said.He added that, despite this, changes in the HMO [house in multiple occupation] licensing requirements mean that all property let to students is now of a decent standard.

Research conducted last month by specialist mortgage provider Paragon found that student lets still offer a landlord the highest possible yield, with an average of 7.62 per cent.Properties let on a shared basis by professionals was the second best performer at 7.56 per cent.

Landlord and Tenant News

Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs is Declaring War on Stamp Duty Avoidance.

It is to mount a court challenge to determine the legality, or otherwise, of stamp duty tax avoidance schemes.

Central to the challenge will be the use of limited companies to buy properties, and then sell them to individuals – something which does appear to be completely legal.

Essentially, the purchaser sets up a Special Purpose Vehicle, a company or a trust with a property as its sole asset. The purchaser then buys shares in the company and is subjected to a tax rate of just 0.5%.

There are many companies offering stamp duty tax avoidance: a Google search yielded over 3,200 results.

The taxman’s move follows this year’s Budget when Chancellor George Osborne announced that he would be clamping down on stamp duty avoidance, whilst law firms have also warned that HMRC is on the prowl.

HMRC estimates the tax avoidance schemes have cost it millions in lost revenue. It is investigating 1,200 people it suspects of having underpaid stamp duty by a collective total of £35m, whilst it will also go after others who have avoided the tax altogether.

The many schemes that claim to legally exploit stamp duty loopholes frequently charge fees of around half the amount that would have been paid in tax.

It is thought that a number of property investors have set up a limited liability company to buy the property to sell back to the individual.

An HMRC spokesperson said: “The schemes rely on an interpretation of law that produces an outcome different from that envisaged when the law was enacted, and that HMRC does not accept.”

Landlord and Tenant News: Government pours praise on SAFEagent in new housing strategy.

Landlord and Tenant News: Government pours praise on SAFEagent in new housing strategy.

SAFEagent, the scheme launched this year to protect both landlords' and tenants' financial interests, has this week received glowing praise from the government.
In a statement released by Westminster detailing the government's new strategy for housing, SAFEagent, which launched to much acclaim in May, was described as a scheme which is driving up industry standards.

It was also stated that many landlords and tenants often do not realise the benefits of choosing a letting agent that is covered by the client money protection initiative.

“The SAFEagent scheme promotes consumer awareness of the issue and helps them to identify agents with protection, through the SAFEagent badge," the document noted.
“It shows how much can be achieved quickly and cheaply through simple and effective ideas driven by industry not the government.”

Since the scheme came into force, housing minister Grant Shapps has been extremely vocal in praising what SAFEagent is doing and has encouraged more letting and property management companies to sign up.

John Midgley, chair of the SAFEagent Steering Group, said that the governments continued backing was a "fantastic endorsement" of SAFEagent and he thanked Mr Shapps for his support throughout the past few months.

“We’re delighted that the government recognises that the industry can generate and implement proactive, innovative ideas which are in the interest of the consumer rather than relying on imposed regulations which would lead to further red tape and cost," he stated.

“SAFEagent is a simple and sensible approach to raising consumer awareness of Client Money Protection and it’s one that is working."

At present more that 1,600 agents and management firms have joined the scheme but Mr Midgley urged more to make a positive difference to the industry by joining up.

This September Lord Taylor of Holbeach, a Conservative peer and House of Lords whip, said he was "delighted" the government was endorsing SAFE and added that consultation is in place to make such protection initiatives a statutory requirement for all agents.

Landlord and Tenant News

Overseas Property Searches

The United States is now the second most popular overseas property search destination in the world, according to the latest report from TheMoveChannel.

After a long running battle between France and Spain at the top of the chart, the US has unexpectedly turned the two horse race into a three way competition for top spot. The country rose by two places in the rankings, replacing the traditional runner up as the surprise second favourite for buyers in October.

America has always been one of the most popular places for foreign real estate investment, alongside France, Italy, Portugal and Turkey. But while Spain remains the country of choice for buyers, receiving 3% more enquiries than the month before, America saw an increase of 1.06% in enquiries last month.

That number may seem like a small increase, but interest in US property has grown by 3% over the past three months, indicating a consistent appetite from overseas buyers for the country’s heavily discounted property market.

France had 1.57% fewer enquiries last month, while interest in Portugal also waned, by 2.42%, perhaps a sign that the continuing Euro crisis is sapping interest in continental property markets.

America’s ascension was just one of several surprises, as Cyprus and Thailand both jumped several places to enter the Top 10 most popular destinations. Cyprus has been suffering from unemployment and economic woes in the years since the housing boom, but the country is now starting to claw back buyers, as property prices dropped for the sixth quarter in a row last month.

Manchester City Centre Investment Property for Sale

Building Land for Sale, Manchester

Piccadilly Village
Store Street
Manchester
Greater Manchester
M1

Gross Site Area: 7480 sq/ft*

£ 150,000
Freehold

The land is situated adjacent to Store Street on the edge of Manchester City Centre approximately 350 yards north east of Piccadilly Railway Station. Access to Store Street is from London Road (A6)

The plot can be found on the southern side of Store Street in the City Centre and is also near to the Grade II* listed Store Street aqueduct. The site is currently vacant and is approximately 3 metres higher than the level of Store Street (approximately 1 storey level).

The GSA is approximately 0.17 acres is landlocked on 3 sides with its fourth side fronting onto Store Street.

Planning permission had previously been granted for the construction of 16 luxury apartments in one block. That consent has now lapsed however details can be found at www.manchester.gov.uk (Ref: 070326/FO/2003/C3).

Investment Property for Sale, Manchester City Centre

West Hampstead Freehold Property Show Day

Kings Gardens, West Hampstead, London, NW6 £499.950

SHOW DAY SATURDAY 5th NOVEMBER

A well-proportioned three double bedroom flat, set on the ground floor of this attractive mansion block.

The property is situated within easy walking distance of West Hampstead's Jubilee Line, Thames Link and North London Over Ground Stations.

The flat offers a bright reception room with wooden flooring, 15ft kitchen with a full range of fitted appliances, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, two further double bedrooms and a bathroom comprising of a modern four piece white suite.

Further benefits include carriage drive way, recently redecorated block, porter, communal gardens, share of the freehold and no upper chain.

West Hampstead Mansion Block Property for Sale

Home Track House Price News for October

Reuters is reporting that the fall in house prices in England and Wales accelerated in October as consumers become increasingly worried about the outlook for the economy and shy away from buying homes, property data firm Hometrack said.

Average prices dipped 0.2 percent on the month compared to falls of 0.1 percent in each of the five preceding months, Hometrack said. House prices were 2.8 percent below the October 2010 level.

"Growing consumer concern over the outlook for the economy is beginning to impact directly on house prices," Hometrack Director of Research Richard Donnell said in a statement.

As in previous releases, the survey showed large regional differences, although prices stalled even in London after rising for seven months in a row.

"The evidence is clear that buyers are drifting away from the market in the face of weak consumer confidence and concerns over the prospects for the economy and their household finances," Donnell said.

Hometrack said that while demand eased, supply had grown by 11 percent over the past six months. "The balance between supply and demand is clearly shifting and points to an acceleration in price falls in the coming months," Donnell said.

Bootle Property With Planning for Sale

Merseyside Investment Property For Sale

Claremont Villas
Merton Road
Bootle
Merseyside
L20

GIA: 8866 sq/ft*

£ 185,000
Freehold

The property is located on Merton Road a predominantly business district which includes a number of government departments, Sefton Council, Sefton Town Hall and Sefton Magistrates Courts. Liverpool City Centre is approximately 3 miles to the south and Bootle Oriel Road Station is also with walking distance.

The property comprises of large office accommodation (8,866sq.ft) and was originally a pair of period semi detached houses which could be reinstated (STPP)

The property benefits from disabled car park, main reception, office suites, boardroom, kitchenette, male and female WCs, access leading to basement storage.

To the first floor there are further offices with male and female WCs and to the second floor there are further offices / storage, open plan meeting rooms, kitchenette.

At the rear of the building is a large garden providing parking for approximately 40 vehicles with potential for future development.

The property is offered for sale with vacant possession.

Freehold Development Property for Sale, Bootle, Merseyside

Kent Investment Property for Sale, Birchington

Kent Property With Planning

Birchington
The Square
Birchington
Kent
CT7

Net Saleable: 4879 sq/ft*

£ 340,000 Freehold

Birchington is a quiet popular Town located on the Kent North Coast. This development opportunity is situated at the rear of 8-10 Birchington Square and is a few minutes walk to the local shops, bus routes, railway station and local amenities.

Full planning permission has been granted for the conversion of existing outbuildings into 2 residetial dwellings and the erection of 4 new build houses.

All 6 houses will benefit from 2 bedrooms and off-street parking.

Net saleable approximately 4,879sq.ft

Kent North Coast Property for Sale

London Property Investment is a Safe Bet

Property in London continues to be a safe bet for investors as overseas demand is helping to keep the market stable, it has been revealed.

Selwyn Lim, director of Mouseprice, said the ongoing robust nature of the London market can be attributed to the city's position as a globally-renowned cultural and business centre, with the capital continuing to outperform the rest of the UK in terms of its ability to recover from the financial downturn.

"London has always been a unique case in that the supply and demand of property in London is [affected] by overseas cash and lots of overseas buyers," he commented.

According to figures published by Rightmove, the gulf in north-south average asking prices is now the highest it has ever been.

The firm revealed average prices in the south of England (£336,743) are now more than double those seen in the north (£164,347).

Aylesford Property for Sale, Kent

Kent Property in Conservation Area

Aylesford
High Street
Aylesford
Kent
ME20

£ 700,000
Freehold

Business Centre for sale in the Medevial Village of Aylesford on the banks for the River Medway.

The property is situated in a Conservation Area and is situated close to numerous eateries, coffee shops, a post office and primary school. Outside the village is Aylesford Secondary School, retail park and a supermarket.

Aylesford has its own train station and has road links to both the M2 and M20 motorways with links to London.

A planning application has been made for a change of use to residential (10 'private' flats) and both conditional or unconditional offers are invited. This comprises of a conversion of the existing business centre and public house and erection of an additional floor.

Property for Sale Kent

Property Investment Rising Despite Global Economy

Propertywire reports that global investment in real estate is holding up well despite the economic growth concerns with transaction volumes up 36% in the third quarter of 2011 compared with the same period in 2010.

Volumes totalled US$99 billion according to the latest figures from Jones Lang LaSalle. In the first nine months of 2011, investment activity increased by 43% with total transaction volumes amounting to US$297 billion, compared to US$208 billion in the same period last year.

Despite heightened economic and sovereign debt concerns, European transaction volumes have held up well, with a total of $US41 billion in the third quarter, an increase of 14% on the last quarter and a 38% rise on the third quarter 2010.

The UK, the largest market in Europe, saw a marked improvement in the third quarter 2011, in part due to deal completions delayed from the second quarter. Germany, France, Scandinavia, Poland and Russia all continue to attract strong investor interest, with safe haven status and relative GDP growth considerations prevalent.

In Asia Pacific, transaction volumes amounted to $US20 billion in the third quarter. This represents an 8% rise on the previous quarter and a 3% increase on the third quarter 2010. The deal volume for China’s direct commercial property investments rose to approximately $US2.8 billion, up 13% on last year. Japan the largest Asian market, saw volumes rise to over $US4.7 billion, in line with the same quarter in 2010, as the markets recovered following the tsunami and earthquake earlier in the year.

The Americas saw a slowdown in the third quarter with volumes down 22% compared with what was a very strong second quarter. Investment reached $US38 billion, up 60% on the same period last year.

Buy to Let Investment News: Buy to let mortgage rates 'fall in last 12 months'

People who need to secure buy to let funding in order to expand their portfolio might be pleased to hear that average mortgage rates have fallen in the last 12 months.

Research from Defaqto revealed that the average two-year fixed rate for a buy to let mortgage at 75 per cent loan to value has dropped from 5.78 per cent in September 2010 to 4.86 per cent last month, while three-year product have seen average rates fall to 5.56 per cent from 6.03 per cent last year.

However, those looking to buy flats and houses for sale in Mapesbury, London, in order to rent to tenants will still find a buy to let mortgage is significantly pricier than an equivalent residential mortgage.

Defaqto insight analyst for banking David Black commented: "People should factor mortgage fees into their calculations as, like the interest rate, they tend to be much higher for buy to let mortgages than for residential mortgages, and can make a real difference to the overall cost of the mortgage."

Buy to Let Investment News

Essex Development Land For Sale, Laindon, Basildon

Basildon Freehold Development Site For Sale

Basildon
Roberts Road
Laindon, Basildon
Essex
SS15

Net Saleable: 5675 sq/ft*

£ 375,000
Freehold

The development is located in the Essex Town of Laindon near Basildon and can be found on Roberts Road.

This cleared site is situated in a residential area and offers easy access to the local shops and amenities.

Planning permission has been granted for the construction of 10 luxury apartments with associated off-street parking.

The Laindon Railway Station and A127 are within easy reach.

The site measures approximately 12,000sq.ft.

Laindon Site with Planning for Sale, Basildon

Bristol Property With Planning Permission for 9 Houses

Bristol Freehold Site With Planning For Sale

Barrowmead Drive
Bristol
Somerset
BS11

Net Saleable: 9266 sq/ft*

£ 295,000

Kings Weston is located on the outskirts of Bristol, just 6 miles North West of Bristol City Centre.

The area is convenient for easy access to the M5 motorway (Junc 18) Temple Mead Railway Station and Bristol Airport is approx 12 miles away.

Full planning consent has been granted for demolition of the existing public house and for the construction of 9 houses (8x3beds & 1x4bed) and associated parking.

The houses will comprise of 1 x 4 bed unit 106.9sqm, 5 x 3 bed units 94.8sqm and 3 x 3 bed units 93.3sqm.

Net saleable 9,226 sq.ft

Somerset Site With Planning, Kings Weston, Bristol

Wolverhampton Site With Planning For Sale, West Midlands

West Midlands Property With Planning For Sale

Hare & Hounds
Stow Heath Lane
Willenhall
West Midlands
WV1

Gross Site Area: 1.6 acres*

£ 595,000
Freehold

Wolverhampton is located in the West Midlands approximately 15 miles north west of Birmingham. Major facilities include the Mander Centre and the Wulfrun Centre.

The development is located on Stowheath Lane a predominately residential area and connects the A41 to the A454 Willenhall Road.

Sitting on 1.65 acres this former public house has the benefit of full planning permission for the construction of an 86 bedroom care home.

West Midlands Site With Planning for HMO Care Home.

Clacton-on-Sea Freehold Commercial and Residential Property for Sale

Essex Seaside Property for Sale, Clacton-on-Sea

The Eldorado
Broadway
Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
CO15

Ground floor footplate: 2830 sq/ft*

£ 395,000
Freehold

The property is located on the busy main seafront of Jaywick which boasts beautiful beaches and is positioned on the outskirts of Clacton-on-Sea.

Operating from a substantial and well presented three storey detached premises the business and private dwellings are of considerable size and quality.

On the ground floor is an amusement arcade & Social Club and the first floor comprises of a snooker club.

The top floor is a 4/5 bedroom self contained apartment which benefits from a private roof terrace. This flat is currently let at a discounted rate of £850.00 pcm.

The property represents excellent value for continued licensed use / owner occupation. There is also enormous potential for redevelopment (residential / commercial / mixed use) subject to gaining the appropriate Local Authority consents.

We are advised that the Business Rates currently stand at approximately £6,290 per annum and the Council Tax is £725.

Clacton-on-Sea Investment Property for Sale

Ramsgate Property with Planning for Sale

Kent Development Property for Sale

Belmont Road
Ramsgate
Kent
CT11

Gross Site Area: 3514 sq/ft*

£ 250,000
Freehold

Ramsgate is a seaside town in the district of Thanet on the Kent East Coast.

The development is located on Belmont Road in the popular Ellington area of Ramsgate close to the Town Centre, Ellington Park and Mainline Station (British Rail)

Belmont Road is a quiet street off the High Street and is a short walk to the sea.

Planning permission has been granted for the demolition of the existing building and construction of a new block to provide 8 apartments (5x1beds & 3x2beds) and associated parking.

Approximate net saleable 3,750 sq.ft (348.4 sq.m)

Kent Property for Sale with Planning for Redevelopment

Prospective Property Buyers; Act now to move before Christmas

Rightmove House Price Index Key points

New sellers’ average asking prices up by 0.7% on the month, but 3.0% down over the summer period

Two deadlines should focus the minds of frustrated sellers:
- Christmas is 98 days away but average time on the market is 94 days, so buyers and sellers need to get serious now if they are to tie up a deal before the festive season;

- first-time buyer stamp duty relief is due to finish on 25th March 2012.

Market recovery appears as far away as ever three years after the collapse of Lehman Brothers, as key metrics are little changed:

- new sellers again at 23,000 per week as lack of confidence and inability to move remains;

- prices up by 2.5% in three years, compared with 16.4% in the previous three year period;

- unsold stock per estate agency branch still stuck in the high 70s.

While new planning proposals may boost housing market activity in the longer term, initiatives supporting mortgage lending such as FirstBuy are the more immediate requirement.

Rightmove

Cambridgeshire Development Opportunity for Sale

Cambridgeshire Property for Sale

St. Neots
High Street
St. Neots
Cambridgeshire
PE19

Gross External: 25500 sq/ft*

£ 850,000

This development opportunity is located in the affluent Cambridgeshire Town Of St Neots and is conveniently situated within easy walking distance of both the busy High Street (B1428) and the River Ouse.

The A1 motorway and St Neots Railway Station offer great access into London.

Planning permission has been granted for the part conversion part new build of this former storage and workshops to create 24 residential dwellings and 3 commercial units.

In addition, there is no affordable housing required throughout the development, however there is a S.106 contribution.

St Neots Freehold Property for Sale

Herne Bay Property With Planning, Kent

Kent Freehold Property for Sale, Herne Bay

Herne Bay
Central Parade
Herne Bay
Kent
CT6

Net Saleable: 6380 sq/ft*

£ 925,000
Freehold

Located on the Kent North Coast lays the picturesque seaside Town Herne Bay. With over 2 miles of seafront and golden beaches the town is a popular holiday destination.

The development is situated on Central Parade at its junction with Market Street and is directly opposite the sea. The locations also offers easy access to the main line station, sea front, Herne Bay Town Centre and other local amenities.

Planning permission has been granted for the construction of a ground floor commercial unit (A3) and 9 luxury apartments above (7x2 beds & 2x1 beds)

The seller has started some of the construction.

Kent Property with Planning for Commercial and Residential Development

Tring Warehouse With planning for Sale

Hertfordshire Freehold Property for Sale, Tring

Dixon’s Wharf
Dixon’s Gap
Wilstone, Nr Tring
Hertfordshire
HP23

Gross Site Area: 3.95 acres*

£ 1,000,000

Freehold site of approximately 3.95 acres currently occupied by a large single storey warehouse building.

Dixons Wharf is approximately 14 miles from Junction 20 of the M25 and can be reached in under 20 minutes even during rush hour as the A41 Dual Carriage way gives quick access and traffic flow is moving in the opposite direction. Tring Station is 3 miles from Dixons Wharf and has direct access to London Euston (35 mins), Watford Junction (15 mins), Milton Keynes Central (22 mins) and Birmingham New Street (1h 29 mins).

Dixons Wharf has easy access to several local village pubs and will benefit from an on-site catering facility. There is sufficient car parking for everyone on site, including visitors, and all this comes with the added benefit of outdoor seating areas which are ideal for informal meetings in the sun.

The site benefits from planning permission for a new B1 office development which was granted in July, 2009. This planning permission was for 2,739 sqm of Class B1 office floorspace. The approved commercial scheme reflected the layout of the exisitng building footprint and proposed 16 separate commercial units within 4 blocks. The scheme utilised the existing access off Wingrave Rd.

The site is now considered suitable for residential development and a number of reports have been carried out in this respect. Our client is looking at an outright unconditional immediate sale of the site or a partner with expertize in the matter to tackle a 'subject to planning' for residential application.

Further information is available upon request.

Freehold Property With Planning for Sale, Tring, Hertfordshire

London W10 Property for Sale

London Freehold Listed Building for Sale

North Kensington (Cobden Club)
Kensal Road
London
Greater London
W10

GIA: 8397 sq/ft*

£ 3,000,000

Located on Kensal Road in a wonderful Grade II listed building is the "Cobden Club" a members only bar just a stones throw away from fashionable Portobello Road.

Kensal Road leads off the northern most end of Ladbroke Grove, at the Sainsbury's roundabout. The Club is the last building on the left side of the road, just before Meanwhile Gardens.

The building would be suitable for continued use/owner occupation/conversion or redevelopment (STPP).

Planning permission has been granted subject to a S.106 for the conversion of the existing building into a ground floor gallery & 3 residential dwellings (1x1 bed Apt, 1x2 bed apt & 1x4 bed hse)

GIA 8,397sq.ft

S.106 contribution approximately £3,000

The seller is seeking OIEO £3,000,000

Cobden Club West London Residential and Commercial Property for Sale

Student Accommodation Property Investment; Do your Research

Landlords hoping to invest in student accommodation in London have been offered advice on where to look.

David Lawrenson, property letting expert and owner of LettingFocus.com, pointed out that student letting is a sub-set of the market and has unique features.

"It's a good time to be a student landlord on the whole. One of the key things to look out for on the student market [is that] you have got to get the kind of property that is in demand for students," he noted.

"[It has got to be] in the right area and it has got to be [at] the right time as well because students only look at certain times of year - and that varies by university."

While the majority of first-year students will have been assigned university accommodation by this point, there will still be a number of older students looking to find property to rent in London and in their own university towns.

"One of the key things to be careful of with student lets is that with rising fees coming in, you have to look at the level of demand coming in for that particular education institution where you are buying, because some places are in less demand than others," Mr Lawrenson posited.

"With introduction of fees for students and the increase in cost of university [it] has focused minds a bit more about which university to go to, so look at the level of demand coming through for that particular university."

This may not be the same level of demand that landlords were expecting, but it helps to know the limitations of the local rental market.

Another thing to look out for, according to the expert, is that large companies do not come into an area and build university accommodation blocks that "soak up" most of the student demand.

"If you're not careful you could end up in an area which becomes oversupplied," Mr Lawrenson warned.

His advice came after research from Lloyds TSB revealed the average house price in new university towns has risen by 70 per cent since 2001.

London Property to Rent

Middlesex Property With Planning For Sale, Stanmore, North London

Jubilee Line Property With Planning for 5 Bed Home

Stanmore
Glanleam Road
Stanmore
Middlesex
HA7

Net Saleable: 4000 sq/ft*

£ 1,150,000
Freehold

Glanleam Road can be found in the North London suburb of Stanmore. The property is located on a private road moments from a superb range of shops, cafe's and bars in Stanmore.

Local transport links are available nearby from Stanmore Underground Station (Jubilee Line).

Planning consent has been granted for the demolition of the existing bungalow and for the construction of single family dwelling.

The scheme comprises 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms circa 4,000 sq ft.

The property will also benefit from a carriage driveway and large south facing rear garden.

Middlesex Property and Land For Redevelopment

Basingstoke Freehold Property for Sale

Property With Planning for Sale in Basingstoke

Darwell House
Essex Road
Basingstoke
Hampshire
RG21

NIA: 7299 sq/ft*

£ 2,100,000
Freehold

This exclusive development is located close to the mailine railway station and Basingstoke Town centre.

Planning permission was granted for the erection of a side extension, construction of a second floor and minor alterations to existing building to form 14 no flats with associated parking and landscaping (7 x 1 beds & 7 x 2 beds)

All the flats benefit from large lounges, fully fitted luxury kitchens with dining area, good sized bedrooms, bathroom and storage cupboards.

All 14 flats are let on an AST basis @ £125,000 p.a.

Hampshire Property for Sale, Basingstoke

Streatham Freehold Property for Sale, Lambeth, South London

Streatham Investment Property For Sale, Lambeth

Gleneldon Road
Streatham
London
SW16

NIA: 11198 sq/ft*

£ 2,600,000
Freehold

Gleneldon Road is located in Streatham in the London Borough of Lambeth. The subject property is situated on the south side of Gleneldon Road and is bounded by residential units on Gleneldon Road to the north and east, by gardens and thereafter residential units to the south, and by Bournevale Road to the west.

The property is easily accessible via public transport. There are a number of bus routes operating on Streatham High Road (A23) and Tooting Bec Road (A214) providing access to the surrounding areas and Central London.

Streatham Railway Station is located approximately 0.26 miles to the south on Streatham High Road (A23), which provides services to London Victoria and London Waterloo. Tooting Bec Underground Station (Northern line) is approximately 1.4 miles to the north west of the subject property. The immediate area is primarily residential and benefits from a range of independent shops, bars and restaurants.

The properties comprise four semi detached Edwardian houses that have been broken up into 30 flats (22 x studios, 7 x 1 beds & 1 x 2 bed) on an assortment of tenancies (1 x Regulated, 1 x assured, 28 x ASTs)

The buildings benefit from a large rear gardens and off street parking.

Rents average £109 pw, Current Local Housing Allowance Rates are £184.62 pw for studios and 1 bedroom apartments and £230.77 pw for 2 bedroom apartments.

Current Income £171k pa Potential ERV £277k pa
Potential Break-up value circa £3.6m

NIA 11,198sq.ft and GEA 13,815sq.ft

All offers should be exclusive of any VAT which may be charged on the purchase price.

Lambeth HMO Investment Property For Sale

Investment Finance News: Landlords 'should be optimistic' about buy to let opportunities

Landlords with property to rent in London and other parts of the UK are increasingly turning their thoughts to expanding their portfolios, an independent property industry expert has said.

Malcolm Harrison commented that many landlords are right to be optimistic about their buy to let prospects, as the rental market will "remain very tight" until there is more housing stock and a wider range of UK mortgage offers for first time buyers.

"There is no house building, there is a shortage of decent housing in many areas and you can't get a mortgage, so quite a lot of people are going to be very dependent on buy to let investors," he pointed out.

"I think [landlords] are right to be cautiously optimistic anyway because we don't know what is happening with the overall economy yet."

Mr Harrison's comments come after LSL Property Services published research showing half (49 per cent) of landlords think now is a good time to invest in their portfolios, with 86 per cent are planning to do just that in the next few months.

Investment Finance News

Birchington Development Opportunity for Sale

Property With Planning for Conversion

Birchington
The Square
Birchington
Kent
CT7

Net Saleable: 4879 sq/ft*

£ 340,000

Birchington is a quiet popular Town located on the Kent North Coast. This development opportunity is situated at the rear of 8-10 Birchington Square and is a few minutes walk to the local shops, bus routes, railway station and local amenities.

Full planning permission has been granted for the conversion of existing outbuildings into 2 residetial dwellings and the erection of 4 new build houses.

All 6 houses will benefit from 2 bedrooms and off-street parking.

Net saleable approximately 4,879sq.ft

Kent Investment Property for Sale