Navigating The Buy-To-Let Market With Hardisty
Thinking about starting your investment journey or expanding your portfolio? Yorkshire offers a wealth of exciting opportunities in the buy-to-let market, making it a rewarding way to generate income and build long-term wealth. Whether you're a first-time investor or adding to your existing properties, understanding the process and your responsibilities is key to making smart, confident decisions. At Hardisty, our team of local property experts is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Just like with any property purchase, it's important to assess your financial position early on. Speaking with a mortgage advisor will help you explore your buy-to-let options, which often require a larger deposit and may come with different interest rates compared to standard residential mortgages. At Hardisty, we partner with Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB), who can guide you through the process and help you understand your borrowing capacity, making sure you're well-prepared from the start.
There’s a lot to think about when purchasing an investment property. Key factors include location, strong rental demand, reliable transport links and proximity to amenities. It’s also important to consider your ideal tenant, whether you're targeting students, families, or professionals and choose a property that meets their lifestyle needs. Explore our range of investment properties and speak with our experienced property experts to discover opportunities that align with your goals.
Within Yorkshire, there are several standout hotspots for property investment. Bradford is becoming an increasingly attractive option for investors, thanks to its affordability and strong rental demand - particularly in the city centre, where rental yields rank among the highest in the region. Leeds continues to be a firm favourite, especially with students and professionals, offering reliable returns in sought-after areas such as Headingley and the city centre. Barnsley provides a more budget-friendly entry point, with growing investment and a strong sense of community, making it ideal for landlords focused on long-term stability. Meanwhile, York shines with its historic charm and tourism appeal, making it better suited for holiday lets or long-term capital appreciation rather than high rental yields.
Once you’ve viewed, purchased and secured your investment property, it’s time to get it rental-ready. This may involve minor repairs, a fresh coat of paint, or even furnishing the property, depending on your target tenant. A well-presented home not only attracts tenants more quickly but can also command a higher rental value. At Hardisty, we partner with LOFT to help landlords furnish and professionally stage their properties, making them more appealing to prospective tenants.
Being a landlord comes with a range of responsibilities and legal obligations. Financially, there are ongoing costs to consider, including letting agent fees, landlord insurance, property maintenance and potential void periods. You must also ensure the property is safe and habitable, with up-to-date gas and electrical safety certificates, working smoke alarms and a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). In addition, it’s important to understand tenancy agreements, deposit protection schemes and your responsibilities under landlord and tenant law.
Being part of Lomond means we benefit from a strong national network and our partner company Linley & Simpson is on hand to support you with letting your property in Yorkshire. Their team can help effectively market your rental, vet potential tenants and provide a fully managed service, from rent collection to maintenance - giving you complete peace of mind.
Buy-to-let is more than just securing tenants, it’s about building a long-term strategy. Regular rent reviews, proactive property maintenance and staying informed about market trends can help you maximise your returns. Whether you're planning to hold the property for years or sell at the right time, our expert team at Hardisty is here to support you throughout your investment journey.
