Updating post from Reddit.
Hi all,
I’m a UK resident but currently living abroad, and I’m looking to make my first buy-to-let investment. Since I only spend a few weeks a year in the UK, I need a completely hands-off approach—ideally, something where I don’t have to view the property or handle any management myself.
I’ve been researching property sourcing companies. I don’t mind paying a sourcing fee for genuine value, but I’m concerned these firms also inflate prices and offer “fake discounts”—essentially selling properties above market value and pocketing a chunk from the developer as well. Some also seem to push new build/off-plan deals with very optimistic projected returns that don’t seem realistic. Everything I've looked at so far just feels a bit scammy.
What I’m looking for is:
Has anyone had a positive experience with a truly independent sourcing/management company?
Thanks in advance for any advice or recommendations!
I am a btl landlord. If you want a hands off approach as you describe, you're choosing a bad option IMO. by all means do the maths but I would say there are much better options available and with less hassle.
which are the pther options?
If you move back to the UK, you'll lose your first-time buyer stamp duty discount
Being a landlord is never fully hands off.
I became a landlord when I moved abroad. Tenants trashed my house.
Honestly, if you can't spend some time on property ( and money) , there is way better way to keep your money growing. And especially your mind.
We become landlords by moving abroad, went with renting to council and even if that is less pay and less stressed, it's still work to be done and problems to deal with.
The best buy to let you can get like this is a new thing called a savings account. Stick it in one and be done with it.
Hands off investments btls are not.
I have the vast majority of my money in savings accounts currently.. it's already barely beating inflation, and with interest rates set to drop further.. Surely better if I can get a 5% net yield property with probable capital appreciation?
That's a big if with no real investment or management.
You'd think if it was so easy everyone would be doing it.
I feel you will be disappointed. Far too many scams or poor quality companies operating in this space.
More fundamental is that it will never be hands off. I also think as a descent landlord it can’t be.
You need to make sure your Agents looks after the tenants as well as the property.
If a cash buyer other investments will deliver similar results.
Don’t go to a property conference. They will see you coming from a mile away.