Are you thinking of selling your property portfolio? If so you may not be alone and this article will explore why.
Topics to be answered in this article
Why are you thinking of selling?
Owning a rental property was, for many years, seen as a way to guarantee a steady source of income. With increasing property values, tax reliefs and favourable interest rates, investing in property was an easy decision for many. However, the introduction of the Stamp Duty Land Tax surcharge, the end of mortgage interest tax relief and hefty interest rates increases has meant less financial reward for landlords.
The cost of living crisis has meant higher repair and upkeep costs for landlords. Research by estate agents Savills found that average landlord net profits are the lowest since 2007. Although new tenancy agreements can enable landlords to increase rent to help close the gap between mortgage and upkeep costs and income profits, landlords with longer term tenants cannot simply increase the rent to do so meaning they are often left with an unprofitable investment.
It is of no surprise, therefore, that lots of Landlords are choosing to sell and find more profitable investment opportunities.
What is likely to change over the next few years?
The proposed changes to EPC regulations (now scrapped) could loom again in future. The plans included rental properties having a minimum efficiency rating of C from 2028. The government has, instead, decided to encourage landlords to “increase their energy efficiency where possible”.
The Renters (Reform) Bill, currently in the House of Commons, proposes getting rid of the no-fault eviction. Currently, landlords are able to evict tenants upon notice without giving a reason. Understandably, there are concerns from Landlords about this proposal even though, in his first King’s Speech as monarch, King Charles said: “Landlords will benefit from reforms to provide certainty that they can regain their properties when needed.” There are already reports in the news of Landlords choosing to sell before no fault evictions are abolished.
Is now the best time to sell a rental property?
In the Spring Budget, Jeremy Hunt announced plans to reduce the higher rate of Capital Gains Tax for gains on residential properties, bringing it down from 28% to 24% in the upcoming Spring Finance Bill 2024. This adjustment will be effective from 6 April 2024, with the lower rate remaining at 18% for gains falling within an individual’s basic rate band. This may encourage Landlord’s who are currently sitting on the fence to sell in the new financial year.
If you are considering selling we recommend that you consult with your financial advisor to help you reach the right decision for you.
Selling tenanted or vacant?
If you decide to sell you should consider whether to sell with the tenants in situ or whether to sell an empty property. The answer may well link to your financial situation and if you have a mortgage you will probably want to ensure that the mortgage is covered for as long as possible.
Selling a tenanted property will definitely limit your market and you should discuss the pros and cons with the estate agent who will better understand the local market place.
Capital gains tax
When deciding whether to sell you should also consider the tax implications. Capital Gains Tax is likely to apply and you should liaise with an accountant at an early stage to understand your potential liability and timescale for payment to avoid any nasty surprises. The Government website also gives helpful advice which can be found here https://www.gov.uk/tax-sell-property
How can Goughs help?
At Goughs, we have a specialist property team that can help with the sale of your investment property if you do decide to sell. Please get in touch for a free estimate.
