When planning to buy a property, a handy checklist to help guide you the process of making and putting into effect that decision to buy can make all the difference for you. It will help give you some comfort as you navigate through the processes. We have provided below some useful planner where you can tick off each of the stages as you complete them. First, are you ready? You need to first of all...

Background The responsibilities of both tenant and landlord are likely to be detailed within the tenancy agreement, although some conditions may vary from one property and landlord to the next. Here is a general guide of what is expected of each party in terms of your rights and obligations, whether you're a landlord or tenant. You should seek the advice of a solicitor if you're in any doubt about your...

Be Very Thorough One of the most important areas when considering a property investment is the selection of a tenant. There are many things to consider when buying a tenanted property or buying a vacant property and choosing a tenant. It is not always advisable to select the tenant who offers the highest rent. It is important to carefully check references with current and previous Agents or Landlords,...

Background Being a landlord is a big responsibility and you should take the time to understand fully what is expected of you. By fulfilling your role as landlord effectively and efficiently, you'll give yourself the best possible chance of keeping your tenants happy, reducing the likelihood of clashes among tenants and between tenants and you. Find out what's expected of you as a landlord, and get help...

Background Working lives have changed and fewer employees can rely on a job for life or a pension. Add to this a period of volatility in the markets and a loss of faith in financial services, and it's easy to understand why so many people are pinning their pension hopes on property. Acquiring and managing one property can be hard enough, but when your venture grows into a portfolio of properties, you...

Background Land speculation has become a land mine for many real estate investors in the past, irrespective of government effort to discourage it. Land speculation has been argued to be a retrogressive element in urban development. At its best, land speculation is a high-risk, high-return investment. At its worst, it is the playground of scam artists and rife with high-level collusion. The purpose of...

Background Investing in student hostel can be a rewarding experience. However, it is important to be aware of the pitfalls/challenges, as well as the opportunities. The number of schools and students has risen geometrically in recent years. As education continues to be a priority these numbers will continue to rise further. Our guide outlines the opportunities and challenges of investing in student...

Background Property and shares are both very rewarding investment vehicles. The question as to priority among the two is arguable and indeed could be a subjective one. When answering the question of investing in property versus shares it is important to remember that this is a question purely based on preference, risk and return, not one of academic discuss. If these two very different but effective...

Background If you are thinking of buying a petrol station presently, you might just be few steps away from financial freedom. Simply take into consideration a few things you should know before you make the purchase. Buying a service station can be a bit more complex than many other types of issues due to environmental or franchise variables. They can also be a great investment if structured...

Background Investing in Hotel business is no doubt another very lucrative form of property investment. Hotels are different from other commercial real estate investments in that they are a special blend of investment in a business and in real estate. At some particular time, many successful real estate investors consider adding a hotel to their commercial real estate portfolios. This could be through...