When it comes to investment, one of the best options for your money is through property. Even as an expat, a buy to let (BTL) can be a smart move as it offerings long-term potential due to the high rental demand and property value growth.
However, it’s a complex process that requires specialist mortgages and careful tax planning. There are navigation to be made within currencies and lenders, so if you’re looking to buy a property then here’s why it’s still appealing and the key challenges that come with it.
Why are BTLs appealing for expats?
There’s a significant shortage of housing and as such, that means a strong tenant demand and rising rental incomes as a result. This is often outpacing house price growth in key areas, which makes it appealing for expats to explore BTL opportunities.
Buy-to-lets are a long-term asset and UK property remains a stable asset class that has potential for capital appreciation. It also serves as a hedge against inflation and a foundation for retirement too.
Despite there being some challenges, the underlying fundamentals of UK property, remain strong and stable.
The key challenges for expats of buy-to-lets
Are there key challenges for expats of buy-to-lets? Here are some of the challenges that come with BTLs.
Specialist mortgages
Lenders will often scrutinize overseas income and require higher deposits as a result for buying property from overseas. Typically around 25% of 40% of the value of the property, will be required as a deposit. More paperwork will likely result from buying as an expat, making a specialist broker an essential investment to have.
Currency risk
There are fluctuations in exchange rates that can significantly impact deposit costs and mortgage repayments. It’s important to note though that rate-fixing options are available too.
Taxation
There are changes in tax rules, like mortgage interest relief, which have made owning property less attractive.
This can often push expats towards buying through a limited company instead but this adds to the complexity of buying a BTL.
How to make it work as an expat
If you’re an expat and you’re looking to make a smart move with BTL property, then here are some ways on how to make it work.
Firstly, get professional advice. Specialist expat buy to let mortgages require the right mortgage broker. It’s also good to have an international tax advisor are crucial for navigating the complexities of the process.
For larger portfolios, having a limited company structure can offer plenty of tax advantages. Location is important so focus on high-demand areas where affordability issues for UK residents will create long-term investment opportunities for expat investors.
Long-term strategies are important to consider. BTL for expats are best viewed as a long-term investment for capital growth and income.
UK BTLs aren’t guaranteed wins, but they still remain a smart and viable option for profitable investments. You’ll want to prepare for the complexities, seek expert guidance and align the investments in question to ensure long-term financial goals are met.
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