As well as being able to cover any outstanding mortgage or loan repayments you might have, you will also need to ensure that your rental income adequately covers the additional costs that come with being a landlord.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While it\u2019s easy to budget for any outgoings that happen regularly, such as insurance and service charges, planning for more unexpected costs can easily be forgotten. A little bit of forward planning here can go a long way, especially as you are ultimately responsible for these costs whether the property is occupied or not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Premiums for buildings insurance vary by area, type and size of property but allow for between 2 and 3% of the rent. For furnished property allow between another 1 and 4% of the rent depending on the level of furnishing. As a professional landlord, it is also worth putting some public liability insurance in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Allow for 10% of the rent each year to replace worn out fixtures, fittings and furnishings. Also, be prepared to re-decorate every few years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Things break down and need to be maintained over time. You will need to allow a percentage of the rent to cover this. The type, age and condition of the property will obviously influence repairs and maintenance of the property, so this should be taken in to consideration when choosing your property to purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the property is leasehold, you\u2019ll have to pay these charges which may also include a contribution to the buildings insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t assume the property will always be occupied with a rent paying tenant. Budget for a month each year when the property is empty \u2013 \u2018void periods\u2019 in landlord jargon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n