New opportunities for buy-to-let investors

The conditions of today’s property market represent a golden opportunity for buy-to-let-investors. Figures from Hometrack, the property data company, indicate that 82 per cent of rented property is owned by professional or semi-professional investors who own at least 10 homes. According to the Association of Residential Letting Agents there are around 500,000 buy-let investors in the UK, owning property worth more than £120 billion.

Raj Khanna, aged 33, is one such investor. He owns a property renovation company at Harrow-on-the-Hill and has a portfolio of around 28 properties, mostly within the M25. These include properties at Crest Nicholson developments in Hemel Hempstead, two at Viridian Square in Aylesbury, the original Q scheme in Reading, and now Raj has further invested in Q’s stunning new sister development, Q2.

Raj has made a habit of buying Crest Nicholson properties, believing that the developments are all in good locations with the added benefit of high quality interior specifications, which can really help investors such as himself ensure that the homes are as well equipped for tenants as possible.

Raj said: “Crest Nicholson properties are always reasonably priced, yet with a consistently high standard that really appeals to me. The finishing touches are excellent, with fully fitted Manhatten kitchens and bathrooms that come complete with all additional fixtures and fittings. This is particularly important because I rent to a lot of young professionals, so the properties have to be well presented.

“I have come to trust the Crest Nicholson brand. I know that what I’m investing in is of a high standard that will appeal to the young professionals that make up the vast majority of my tenant base.”

Ideally placed for commuting to London, the M4 (junction 11) is just three miles away from Q2 whilst Reading train station, only a short walk away, provides fast and frequent rail services to London Paddington in under half an hour.

When Raj invested at the original Q scheme he leased his properties to staff from Fidelity Investments, a Swedish company that has a UK office base in Reading and, building on the strength of this relationship, predicts a similar turn of events with his investment at Q2.

“A lot of my tenants have come to me on the basis of past recommendations”, he explains. “Just as I’ve built a solid relationship with Crest Nicholson, it’s been equally important for me to develop a relationship with my tenants, and the strength of positive word-of-mouth should not be underestimated!”

Raj is unfazed by recent reports of a downturn in the housing market: “There are always ups and downs in the property industry, and at the moment it is definitely a buyers market. I invest in property for the long term, and I’m currently just riding the wave.

“Crest Nicholson properties are such good value that it means equity growth is more than achievable in the long term, which suits an investor such as myself.”

Q2 consists of a mix of 60 contemporary one and two bedroom apartments and duplexes. Built over nine stories, the building has excellent views over the town’s skyline. It is set to be a new landmark development for Reading, located within easy reach of the shops, bars and restaurants that make up the town centre and its vibrant social scene.

Towering above secure basement parking, Q2 has been styled using the best in modern design. The development is anchored by a distinctive circular tower with clean, sleek lines and large windows to maximise the sense of space and light. Many of the apartments boast their own balconies, and all residents have access to a beautiful communal terrace area, offering planting and seating areas in which to relax.

Raj concludes: “The outdoor space is pretty unique for a new development in such a central location. It’s all about the added extras, and I’ve found that tenants really appreciate this attention to detail. For busy professionals, the option of having this terrace space really appeals and I’m constantly looking for investment options that stand out from the crowd.”

Kerry Jones, Sales and Marketing Manager at Crest Nicholson adds: “The location of Q2 is perfect for locals who work in the immediate area, as well as commuters who need to travel into London on a daily basis. For investors such as Raj, Q2 is an excellent option because there is a guaranteed tenant base of young professionals in the area. It’s good to hear that Raj knows he can rely on Crest Nicholson to provide a high standard of accommodation, and these are values that we strive to replicate at every property we deliver.”

Prices for properties at Q2 begin at £172,950 for a one bedroom apartment. For more information visit Crestnicholson.com.