519-639-6221

Investment Properties

Real Estate London

With house prices going down, some clients are asking about investment properties. Maybe you sold at the peak and have some extra cash. Maybe you’re downsizing and want to invest for retirement or a child’s education. Either way, an investment property can be a great way to save for your future.

But what makes a good investment property?

Fixer uppers– A large percentage of people investing look at ‘fixer uppers’ to do so. Flipping a property is a great plan, but keep in mind some of the points from our last blog. Taking an older property, renovating it and creating a wonderful home for renters is a great plan for income properties.

Location– With so many students coming into the city of London, there is a lot of opportunity for rental properties. If your child is one of these students, a rental property could be a great option. Your child has somewhere to live (you/ they would be paying rent anyways) and you also have a long term investment. If your plan is to rent to students, pick the location accordingly. Overall think about who you want to rent and where those people would best be suited to live.

House layout– Is the setup of the house ideal for tenants? Do you have multiple communal areas? How many bedrooms /bathrooms are there? Always keep in mind your ideal renter, and if the space will accommodate their needs. Students have very different requirements than families so think about the possibilities of the space.

Amenities– What amenities are nearby that will benefit your ideal buyer? Students would likely look for properties by the school, with a good walking score and a nightlife. Young families might be looking for a garage, grocery stores and playground or schools nearby. Considering what is available to your tenants is key when finding an income location.

It’s also important to note, the city of London just passed a bill that no longer allows short term rentals that are not your permanent residence. Keep this and other bylaws in mind when you’re looking for a place.

Find a potential income property today:

London Real Estate Listings

If you have specific questions I’m happy to help! I have years of expereince with income properties. Give me a call!

519-639-6221

‘Fixer Upper’ Properties

Real Estate London

In the last few years, ‘fixer upper’ properties have become extremely popular. Many first time home buyers and investment buyers are forgoing turn key homes for houses with a bit lower price tag, but need some work done.

Here are some tips to remember when looking at a home that needs work:

Cost

Make sure you mentally include the price of upgrades when submitting your bid. Painting and floors is one thing, but once you get into actual structural changes you need to have an idea of how much it will cost before committing.

Timing

Living in a house under construction can be…hard. Try completing major renovations before you move in so not to disrupt your life. If this isn’t possible, consider the plan for living in a house while also updating it. Are there specific rooms you can live in while the rest of the house is being worked on? Can you live on one floor while the other is being demoed? Having a plan for the construction is key.

Talk to an engineer

If you are planning on making structural changes ensure they have been approved by an engineer and the city before submitting your bid. There are bylaws you may have to adhere to as well as structural limitations. You don’t want to plan your dream home just to find out its not possible!

Photos

Before and after photos are the best way to track your process…and remember what it once looked like!

Most importantly, EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED. Delays, over budget costs, and unexpected road blocks are very common with fixer upper properties. Take your time. Do it at the pace that makes the most sense for you and remember to give yourself lots of buffer room with both time and budget. It will be a lot of work, but totally worth it in the end!

 

If you’re looking for a property, give me a call!

519-639-6221

Find what’s listed here: London Real Estate Listings