Bracknell investors are cashing in

A leading lettings agent in Bracknell believes that despite the popularity of two-bedroom homes among buy-to-let investors, larger properties are actually bringing in a better return.

Martin Hembra, of Roman Lettings, is championing the investment potential of the four-bedroom homes at Redrow’s Imperial Heights development due to them having a good ratio of purchase price to rental income.

He said: “Personally I don’t think the difference in the cost of buying a four-bedroom home compared to a two-bedroom home is as significant as you might think when you compare it to the much-higher rental incomes that can be achieved by the larger properties. In Bracknell, and specifically at Imperial Heights, we have achieved rents of around £1,400 to £1,500 a month for the four-bedroom homes compared to around £900 to £950 for the two-bed properties, which is a big jump.

“A lot of people who we see are looking to rent a four-bedroom property in the current market, when previously the one and two-bedroom properties probably were more popular. That is partly due to the fact that there is a trend among some families to sell their homes at the moment, and rent for a year, in the hope that property prices will be lower when they come to purchase a new home.”

The good news for buy-to-let purchasers at Imperial Heights is that Martin’s company is having no trouble finding people to rent the properties they have on their books.

He added: “We are tending to find tenants in an average of about four to six weeks at Imperial Heights. It is a popular choice because many people looking to rent like the idea of a brand new home and want to be the first people to live there. It’s in a great location between Bracknell - an affordable choice for investors - and Wokingham, a desirable area which achieves higher rental values. Essentially investors can take advantage of the Bracknell market, while capitalising on the popularity of Wokingham with renters.

“The development as a whole is very attractive, with lots of greenery and superb quality homes.”

Redrow’s Imperial Heights development is part of Jennett’s Park, a joint housing venture which, as well as featuring a country park of 91 acres in the future, will also come complete with a doctor’s surgery, primary school and 10 play areas.

Approximately half of the development is set aside for open space, retained woodland and recreational areas.

There is a selection of homes available at the development, including two bedroom apartments, from £199,950, as well as four and five-bedroom houses, with prices from £334,950 to £469,950.

Just five minutes away from Bracknell and 20 minutes from Reading, the location near to the A329 Berkshire Way also gives it easy access to the M3 and M4 – perfect for commuters.

Visit Imperial Heights daily between 10am and 5.30pm to view the four show homes or for more information log on to Redrow.co.uk. General information about Jennett’s Park available at Jennettspark.co.uk.