Step 1: Set your investment goals
Understanding your investment goals early is a key factor to successfully buy to let
It is important to know your investment goals before setting up your buy to let strategy, as these will impact your decisions on everything from the type of property you buy to how you manage it.
Tips:
Start by identifying your primary objective: Are you aiming for rental income, long-term capital growth, or a combination of both? If income is your priority: look for high-yield areas where rental demand is consistent. If you’re focused on capital growth: target locations with strong price appreciation potential, often emerging commuter zones or regeneration areas
Decide who will manage the property: Self-management gives you control but demands time, knowledge, and availability. Agents charge fees but can take the burden off your plate, read our choosing a letting agent guide to learn more
Identify your exit strategy: Will you hold the property long-term for pension income, sell when the market peaks, or pass it down to family? Knowing this upfront can help guide your decisions
Rental income
Capital growth
Combination of both
Other
Buy to let is still a worthwhile investment and demand for rental properties is stronger than ever. But landlords need to be professional and comply with private rented sector legislation. I would always advise first-time landlords not to try navigating the minefield of rules and regulations alone, but to appoint a reputable agent to reduce the stress and, most importantly, to make sure you’re compliant. With more and more regulations coming down the line, it’s harder now for landlords to manage a property than ever before. My advice to landlords is always to understand that they are running a business and must put a price on their time.”
Understanding your investment goals can be difficult, that’s why we've created a buy to let investment guide, to help you figure out what you want and how to get there. Sign up to become a Total Landlord member to stay up to date with the latest landlord news, insights, and legal changes, so you’re always one step ahead.
