The UK’s private rented sector (PRS) has experienced another year of increasing rents, with the latest figures from the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealing a 9% rise in average rents in the 12 months to December. While this represents a slight dip from November’s 9.1% increase, renters continue to face significant financial pressures.

Despite facing economic hurdles, the UK property market is showing resilience, with annual house price growth reaching its highest point since November 2022. This stands in sharp contrast to the broader economic landscape, which has been marred by declining manufacturing output and wavering consumer confidence.

When navigating the world of UK property investment, many ask: why do investors favour interest-only mortgages over repayment ones? The answer lies in the strategic flexibility and financial advantages they offer, especially for building a robust portfolio.

When venturing into property investment, one of the first major decisions you’ll face is whether to buy your buy-to-let property with cash or a mortgage. While paying in cash may seem like the simplest, most secure route, most seasoned investors opt for a different strategy. The true power of property investing lies in leveraging your funds to achieve long-term growth and scalability. Let’s explore both approaches to help you decide which suits your goals best.

• Record High Prices: Average UK house price reaches £268,144, up 3.7% year-on-year. • Regional Growth: Northern Ireland leads with 6.8% annual growth, followed by Wales and North West England. • Sustained Demand: Easing mortgage rates and buyer confidence drive continuous price increases. • Future Projections: Prices expected to rise moderately into 2025, influenced by economic factors and upcoming tax changes. • Market Drivers: Autumn Budget and impending stamp duty increase create urgency among buyers.

If you’ve grown weary of being a UK landlord in a personal name, or contemplating investing in a new buy-to-let investment, now might be the perfect time to capitalise on a remarkable trend sweeping the property investment sector: buyer demand for property companies is at an all-time high.