What is a HMO and what does it mean? A house under multiple occupation (HMO), or property with shared facilities, such as kitchens and bathrooms, is one that's rented to more than one person. This is typically a family. To run an HMO standard with four or less occupants, you do not need a license as a landlord. HMOs are subject to different mortgage requirements than buy-to -let mortgages.
HMOs will not all generate triple the rental income of a regular buy to let. It is also important to remember that utilities bills are typically paid out by landlords. The above example shows that even with a PS2k-3k monthly utility bill, rental profits are still substantial.
These complex properties are not suitable for lenders who are less risk-averse. The ones that are will be able to offer financing will most likely have their own criteria.
The demand for affordable rental accommodation is strong as the rising cost of purchasing a home makes it difficult to afford one. To assess the demand from potential tenants, check local listing sites (Gumtree. Zoopla. Rightmove ).
Multilets are similar to HMOs in that they can be rented to tenants who are not related and share common facilities within the property. However, their main difference is that they are unlicensed.
HMO mortgages were offered by 27 lenders, 23 to Limited Companies, and 23 to Individual applicants at the time. HMO mortgage rates can be more expensive than traditional buy to lets because they are a specialist type of property. This sector is more competitive than ever thanks to the increased competition. Rates are now starting at 1.64% and going up to 2.69% in Limited Companies.
HMOs can be rented by students or young professionals who cannot afford to rent the entire property. They may also not be settled enough to move in together. A tenant can rent one room for less than an entire property. However, the total rent for all of the rooms is typically higher than what could be charged to a single household. HMOs can bring in a higher rental income for landlords.