Sunday, 31 July 2011

Let Properties Insurance Can Be Vitally Important To A Landlord Or Property Owner

By Shaun Ryder


With lower than ever housing prices, if ever you've thought of becoming a property investor there's never been a better time. Across the board there are stories of property prices dropping and rental prices climbing. Mortgages for first time buyers are difficult to obtain, so many seem to be turning to renting property from those fortunate to be able to afford it.

Because of the number of properties built in the boom there are some large investors that have ended up having to become landlords by default. This is because of the squeeze on finances and the uncertainty of peoples financial future. Of course it depends on the location and some areas are still performing well. If you have a good job and a sound financial future, now could be a good time to invest in property for the purpose of renting out.

In order to take on a property for these purposes you will need to obtain a buy to let mortgage. These differ from the traditional types of mortgage because they are used for funding a property that is being used for financial gain. It is likely that you won't be able to borrow at the same proportions you would with a regular type of mortgage. This will almost always mean that you will have to make more of a capital investment in terms of a deposit.

A buy to let mortgage works best when the owner intends to resell when values go up. The idea is to buy low, sell high and trade up for better rental property with more units. If an owner intended to keep the property they may prefer a loan in which it is actually possible to pay off the property.

When it comes to letting the property out, you are going to need to protect yourself from a number of perils that plague almost every landlord. A let property insurance policy can support you in the event that the property can't be let out or becomes unoccupied for any length of time. Unfortunately you can't just stop paying the mortgage if you cant find a suitable tenant. Naturally there isn't an insurance policy that will replace loss of rent indefinitely, however it is a welcome buffer if there is a temporary need for some support.

Very broadly speaking, the purpose of let property insurance is to protect you from loss, damage, or liability from third parties that may be injured as a result of being on or around the property. This means guests of any tenants renting the property. From a cracked paving slab to a tile falling off the roof and damaging a nearby car, you need to make sure you have adequate protection in place.

No matter which type of loan you get or what sort of rental property you have. Let property insurance is integral to protecting the initial investment, and the profits. Insurance for let property offers many features and options, including rent guarantees, liability insurance, building cover, and insurance on contents such as furnishings and fixtures. All mortgage holders and all landlords are required to have this insurance but even if that were not true, it is only sensible to have adequate insurance on your valuable rental properties. It is important have adequate coverage, instead of looking for the lowest price.

If you look back over time, property has always been a good investment even though it has had ups and downs. Nobody can predict when the levels of growth we all enjoyed will return, however for those with the capital to invest in the long term could end up with a win. That is, if they can buy at the right price.




About the Author:



No comments: