FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A combined 65 years in the business Founders Caroline, Paul, Amanda have 65 combined years of experience in the business of UK Property Investment, Development & Management. ​ Through our companies, we hold a portfolio of residential and commercial property across the UK ranging from terrace houses to larger developments and in recent years have moved into the acquisition and management of HMO, service accommodation and hotels. ​ Our experience affords us the pleasure of woking with investors and partners, local authorities and large organisations alongside training and coaching other like minded business owners to do the same. ​ We look forward to speaking with you and meeting with you, to see how we can help you in the business of UK Property. ​

We specialise in property management in Hampshire & Berkshire. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these diverse markets.

We perform a market analysis, consider property conditions, and evaluate local demand to set competitive rental prices. We monitor prices in the area from the lowest to highest and what determines those prices. For example, Area, style of house, proximity to services and amenities as an example.

Our fees are based on a percentage of the gross rental income. We also offer custom packages based on your specific needs. Here is a link to our fees packages.

Rental income is processed monthly and will be transferred to your nominated bank account after deducting our management fee. Statements are received on the 8th of every month and funds normally arrive in your bank by 10th of every month.

We handle routine maintenance within the management fee and pass on any contractor payments to the landlord by deducting from rent. Major repairs and renovations will incur additional charges which is normally a % of the renovation cost with a standard minimum as outlined on our Management Fees and Packages.

We stay updated with all local housing regulations and ensure your property meets all legal requirements, including health and safety certifications. Our Continual Professional Development ensures we are kept abreast of the frequent changes in the law and requirements on landlords.

We recommend having comprehensive landlord insurance that covers building, contents, liability, and loss of rent.

1. The Housing Act 2004 - Sets standards for housing conditions in rental properties and provides a framework for local authorities to regulate the private rented sector. 2. The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 - Outlines requirements for landlords, including providing rent books, maintaining property safety, and allowing tenants to exercise certain rights. 3. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 - Requires landlords to ensure rental properties are fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy. 4. The Deregulation Act 2015 - Introduced the "90-day rule" in Greater London, allowing short-term rentals for up to 90 days per year without planning permission. 5. The Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 - Requires landlords to obtain a certificate from Tourism Northern Ireland for providing tourist accommodation as a business. 6. Upcoming Renters Reform Bill (expected in 2024) - Aims to provide greater protection and power to tenants, including abolishing Section 21 evictions and introducing lifetime deposits. 7. Local council regulations - Many cities and regions in the UK, such as Scotland, have specific licensing requirements and conditions for short-term rentals like Airbnb. It's important to note that landlords must also comply with safety regulations, such as gas safety, fire safety, and energy performance certificates, as well as obtain necessary permissions from mortgage providers, landlords, or freeholders. Further legislation Housing Act 2004 Summary: Introduces licensing for HMOs, requirements for property conditions, and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). Read more on the UK Government website Deregulation Act 2015 Summary: Affects the rights concerning the eviction of tenants and protection of tenancy deposits. Read more on the UK Government website HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) HMO Licensing (Housing Act 2004) Summary: Requires landlords to obtain a license for larger HMOs, ensuring adequate facilities and safety measures are in place. Read more on the UK Government website Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation Regulations 2006 Summary: Outlines the management duties for HMOs, including maintenance and fire safety requirements. Read more on the UK Government website Serviced Accommodations (such as Airbnb) The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 Summary: Requires fire safety risk assessments and appropriate fire safety measures for all non-domestic properties, including serviced accommodations. Read more on the UK Government website Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 Summary: Protects consumers from unfair business practices and ensures all commercial practices are fair and transparent, relevant for those marketing serviced accommodations. Read more on the UK Government website General Legislation Affecting All Types of Rental Properties Right to Rent Checks (Immigration Act 2014 & 2016) Summary: Requires landlords to check the immigration status of their tenants to ensure they have the right to reside in the UK legally. Read more on the UK Government website Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 Summary: Requires landlords to have gas appliances checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Read more on the UK Government website Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 Summary: Requires landlords to ensure that electrical installations are inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years. Read more on the UK Government website

We conduct formal, documented inspections at a minimum of twice yearly, but generally quarterly covering everything from appliance function to decor condition. Additionally, our staff do informal checks during their regular visits for meter readings, maintenance, etc. This vigilance nips issues in the bud, maintaining property standards.

You will receive monthly financial reports or statements and immediate updates of significant events affecting your property. We provide a quarterly property inspection and protection report.

We can advise on and manage property improvements, optimise rental strategies, and enhance tenant retention to increase your yield. We have particular strategies in place that have worked successfully in the target area. Strategies can vary from property to property depending on different variables.

You can end your contract with notice as specified in our agreement, typically requiring 2 months depending on the services provided.

Definitely. HMO licensing is complex and area-specific. We handle it all - application, property inspections, liaising with councils. Our 100% success rate in securing HMO licenses comes from our deep understanding of local regulations and strong council relationships. We ensure full compliance, avoiding hefty fines. If you want to take advantage of our expertise please feel free to book a call to discuss.

Indeed. For sales, we can minimise disruption to tenants and sell tenant properties to other investors. For purchases, we offer HMO-specific due diligence - assessing conversion potential, licensing likelihood, even tenant transferability.

HMO properties must meet specific safety standards, including fire safety regulations, minimum room sizes, and adequate facilities for the number of tenants. We ensure all HMOs are licensed appropriately and comply with these regulations. We are able to assist with all aspects of this compliance for new owners.

A property is typically classified as an HMO if at least three tenants live there, forming more than one household, and they share toilet, bathroom, or kitchen facilities.

Serviced apartments are generally treated as commercial properties under short-term lets, which may have different tax implications and regulatory standards compared to long-term residential rentals. For houses we use HMO regulations as a safeguard since it forms a high bar in terms of safety.

For international landlords, we offer comprehensive management services, ensuring your property is effectively managed without needing your constant presence. Over the years we have specialised in supporting overseas landlords and keeping them abreast through reports, blogs and podcasts on what is happening locally and nationally.

Consider diversification by location and property type, evaluate the financial health of your current portfolio, and assess market conditions to identify growth opportunities. Medium and Long term goals are important to consider when expanding your portfolio along with the management.

Yes, our local knowledge is invaluable. We analyse areas for HMO demand & price trends. We've even pre-empted 'Article 4' HMO restrictions, guiding clients to upcoming hotspots. If you are interesting in being on our private investor list for up coming off market deals then please book a free call for further details.

Our management fees starts from 12.5% up to 20% of the monthly rental income, depending on the services included. Additional fees for tenant placement, major renovations may apply along with other services depending in the package chosen.

You receive detailed statements on the 8th, itemining income, expenditure, and our fee.

We handle negotiations to find the best solution, for a replacement tenant to minimise disruption to your income.

We can assist with the entire process, from planning the layout to obtaining the necessary licensing, project managing and ensuring compliance with all local regulations. There are many considerations here and we can provide hands on advice to steer you through what can sometimes be a daunting process.

We can facilitate a quick sale by leveraging our network if investors and landlords to find interested buyers and expedite the sales process while aiming to maximise your return.

We handle all aspects of property management, including compliance with local laws, tenant management, and maintenance, plus we can arrange payment of local utilities if needed.

We collaborate with various organisations to provide them with suitable properties for their needs, handling all aspects of lease management and maintenance. Many of these leases can be up to 10 years requiring the landlord commitment to works needed, negotiations which we are able to comfortably handle.

Absolutely, we can assist in finding reputable charities and housing associations looking for properties, negotiate the terms, and manage the lease agreement on your behalf.

We employ dynamic pricing strategies, effective marketing, and maintain high standards of hospitality to attract and retain guests.

We provide 24/7 support for any emergencies, ensuring rapid response to protect both guests and the property.

Consider the property’s location, proximity to key amenities, local demand for shared housing, and regulatory requirements for HMOs. We assist you with all these aspects, including conducting feasibility studies and profitability analysis.

We provide detailed financial modelling services that include cash flow analysis, expense forecasting, and return on investment calculations to help you make informed decisions.

Yes, we guide you through the specific legal requirements for serviced accommodations, including licensing, safety regulations, and the tax implications of short-term rentals.

We assist with property valuation, making competitive offers, and negotiating terms that are in your best interest. We also handle follow-up communications to ensure a smooth acquisition process.

Our services include ongoing profitability analysis, helping you to optimize rental income, reduce operating costs, and make strategic upgrades that enhance property value.

We guide you through setting up your property, from furnishing and decorating to implementing management systems, ensuring you comply with all regulations and are ready for occupancy.

We offer continuous advisory support, including property management, tenant placement, and regular reviews and inspections to ensure your investment remains sound and profitable.

We offer services like interior design, detailed project management for conversions and renovations, and expert advice on maximizing your property's appeal and functionality to increase its market value. We can walk through your portfolio and how it aligns with your goal and also discuss other potential property strategies for short, medium and long term planning.

Absolutely, our team specializes in managing and developing properties from small HMOs to larger complex ones. We handle all aspects of conversion, ensuring compliance with regulations and optimizing the layout for maximum profitability. We work with a team of builders and contractors with who we have years of experience.

We offer comprehensive project management from inception to completion, including overseeing contractors, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets, and handling all regulatory compliance issues. If it so happens the project is too large or we are at capacity we will recommend quality project managers for you to choose.

Yes, we provide thorough analysis including market trends, financial performance, and return on investment projections to ensure any new property acquisition aligns with your strategic goals.

We evaluate your entire portfolio to identify opportunities for growth, risk mitigation, and increased efficiency, helping you plan strategically for the future of your investments. A property that was a good idea at the time may not fit the bill today. We also assess cost of holding each property in the portfolio along with potential for capital growth.

We have a comprehensive media folder available upon request, which includes case studies, before-and-after photos, and testimonials that highlight our capabilities and successes.

We focus on optimizing the design and adding facilities such as en-suites, high-quality communal areas, and additional amenities that allow for higher rental rates and improved tenant retention. We also have additional strategies that are proprietary to ourselves.

The process begins with a phone or zoom conversation to understand your needs, followed by a property visit to assess the situation and make any necessary recommendations. We then suggest a management package that fits your level of involvement. Please book in our calendar or call us direct to make an appointment for an initial discussion

Our management agreement outlines the specific services we will provide, the fees, and the terms of our engagement. It's designed to ensure transparency and mutual understanding before any work begins. Please click here for more information.

Our HMO properties primarily attract working professionals, predominantly blue-collar workers, but we also cater to white-collar professionals from time to time.

During the week, our serviced accommodations often host contractors, while on weekends, they are popular with visitors and tourists exploring the area.

Management fees range from 15% to 25%, depending on the level of service required. The fee structure is designed to cover the comprehensive management and operational services we provide.

The Renters Reform Bill proposes significant changes, including abolishing "no-fault" evictions under Section 21, improving the process for landlords to regain possession when needed, and introducing a lifetime deposit for tenants. We provide guidance on how to navigate these changes and ensure your rental agreements are compliant. Please click here for more details of this major change in legislation.

Updates to the Housing Act often involve amendments in tenant rights, safety regulations, and landlord responsibilities. We keep you informed of any changes that affect your property management duties and help ensure your properties meet all legal requirements.

The HHSRS has undergone revisions aimed at improving housing safety and standards. Changes may include new assessment criteria or enhanced inspections. We can conduct a comprehensive review of your properties to ensure they meet the updated safety standards.

Recent updates to Fire Risk Assessments require more rigorous checks and documentation, particularly for HMOs and multi-occupancy buildings. We assist in conducting these assessments, ensuring all fire safety measures are up to date and documented according to the latest regulations. Regulations have been updated ever since the Grenfell Tower fire in London. All buildings large or small have been affected.

Changes to the Right to Rent scheme may include adjustments in the documentation accepted and the process of checking tenant eligibility. We provide up-to-date information and support in conducting Right to Rent checks to ensure compliance with immigration laws. We receive constant updates as changes are made by the relevant Government departments.

Depending on the specific changes, your current tenancies may need adjustments to rental agreements or property management practices. We offer personalised advice to ensure all your tenancies remain compliant without disrupting your rental operations. Please listen to our podcast which discusses recent changes and what affects this will have on landlords.

Staying proactive involves regular reviews of your property management policies and keeping abreast of legislative developments. We cover much of the future legislation that are discussed or have become law in our podcasts; often with expert speakers.

Fire safety is non-negotiable. Our in-house experts can offer comprehensive Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs) annually or after any layout changes. We also handle all compliance: fire doors, alarms, extinguishers, emergency lighting, signage. With the aggressive increase in prosecutions and inspections from the local authorities, our proactive approach has prevented incidents and passes council inspection.

Pros: With our services, you enjoy hands-off management, assured compliance with the latest legislation, and more free time to pursue other investments or high-value activities. Our expertise in managing properties ensures higher standards of tenant management and property upkeep. Cons: Using our services involves a management fee, which might be a consideration if you have the time and expertise to manage properties on your own. However, considering the complexity and legal requirements fines associated with poor property management today, the cost often justifies itself in terms of risk mitigation and peace of mind.

The last five years have seen significant legislative changes impacting tenant rights, safety standards, and landlord responsibilities. Staying unaware of these changes can lead to non-compliance, jeopardising both your financial standing and legal position. There has also been changes in tax legislation for landlords.

We ensure that all properties meet or exceed safety regulations by conducting regular inspections, coordinating maintenance, and staying updated with legislative changes. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of non-compliance and associated fines. We can arrange all certificates on your behalf or you can do that yourself and send us a copy to confirm compliance. Depending on what management package you choose some of these services are included withing the management fee.

Non-compliance can severely damage your reputation, making it difficult to attract quality tenants and potentially leading to legal disputes. Professional management helps maintain a high standard of compliance, preserving your reputation in the market. One of the changes in the Renters Reform Bill includes a register of Landlords which may or may not include a scoring system.

Yes, our familiarity with the platforms and market trends, combined with our operational efficiency in managing bookings, maintenance, and guest services, enhances profitability and reduces the hassle for property owners. Service Accommodation very hands on if you have not this before. Renters are there for shorter periods and have higher expectations.

We manage all aspects of tenant relations, including dispute resolution in line with legal standards. This mitigates the risk of costly legal issues and ensures fair and professional handling of any conflicts. We typically communicate with tenants and attempt to resolve long before it.

Returns vary based on the property type, location, and market conditions. However, JV partners typically enjoy a steady rental income and share in the property's capital growth, which accumulates over the years. We always provide financial projections at an early stage to show potential returns.

As with any investment, risks include market fluctuations and property value changes. However, our extensive experience and careful market analysis mitigate these risks. We ensure properties selected for JVs have strong potential for income and growth.

Transparency is key in our JV projects. We provide regular updates, detailed reports on property performance, and clear financial statements to ensure our partners are well-informed about their investments. All aspects are agreed with partners in advance.

We structure each JV agreement with exit strategies in mind. Options typically include selling the property or buying out the JV partner’s stake, depending on the terms agreed upon. We would not normally enter into a JV project if the prospective partner is not looking at less than a 5 year involvement.

Our in-house maintenance team swiftly handles minor repairs, often same-day. For major issues, we leverage our network of vetted, trade-specific contractors.

Absolutely. Clear, timely communication is key to our tenant satisfaction rates. We notify tenants in advance about all visits, detailing the nature of work, expected duration, and any preparations needed. This transparency fosters trust, reduces complaints, and maintains our high tenant retention rates. Additionally all our tenants do have access to our maintenance app.

Absolutely. From installing smart thermostats to full-scale refurbishments, we manage it all. Our project management expertise ensures quality work, timely completion, and cost-effectiveness. We focus on upgrades that maximise rental yields and attract premium tenants, enhancing your long-term returns.

Yes, with our 24/7 emergency line and in-house maintenance team. Whether it's a leak, power outage, or heating failure, we're on it. This rapid response prevents minor issues from becoming costly damages, protecting your property and keeping tenants safe and satisfied.

It's a common HMO issue we tackle proactively. We educate tenants on ventilation and heating use. We provide mold-resistant paint and cleaning solutions. For persistent problems, we investigate root causes - maybe a faulty extractor fan or poor insulation - and fix them, preserving your property and tenant health.

Yes we certainly can. We've managed everything from garage conversions to full roof replacements. We handle planning permissions, coordinate with specialised contractors, and oversee projects to completion. Our project management services ensures quality, timely delivery, and often, value-adding improvements to your property.

Yes, it's key to a quality HMO. We schedule regular cleaning of communal areas, ensuring a pleasant, hygienic environment. For refuse, we manage bin rotations, recycling, and liaisons with local councils. This service prevents penalties and keeps your property attractive.

We use a multi-layered approach. Tenants rate cleaning weekly on a 1-10 scale, giving immediate feedback. Our staff also assess during regular visits. If standards slip, we address it with the cleaning team, re-train, or replace swiftly.

Absolutely. Clutter can breach fire regulations and deter tenants. We have a zero-tolerance policy. We notify tenants to remove personal items from shared spaces by a deadline. If needed, we arrange professional removal. This keeps your HMO safe, legal, and attractive.

Our approach balances fairness with tenant relations. We document all damage during our inspections. Minor issues are often resolved through tenant education. For significant damage, we use deposits judiciously, obtain competitive repair quotes, and can even pursue legal action if needed. Our clear processes mean we recover costs without losing tenants.