The Gatwick Airport Success Story

Posted on 15th August 201518th February 2017 by Aspen Woolf UK

186,000 passengers passed through Gatwick Airport in its first year of commercial operation in 1958. That figure has now risen to around 40 million. This makes Gatwick the second busiest passenger airport in the United Kingdom, with destinations in 90 countries. It is also the world’s busiest single-use runway, with an impressive 55 aircraft movements per hour at its peak.

In 2009, Gatwick was acquired by a Global Infrastructure Partners led consortium and success has been lauded on the organisation ever since. As well as being regularly listed in the world’s top 40 airports, it has also been the recipient of numerous awards in recent years. These include:

Best UK Airport
Business Travel Awards 2012, 2013 and 2014

Airport of the Year
National Transport Awards 2013

Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents Gold Award
RoSPA Occupational Health and Safety Awards 2013

UK Airport of the Year
Travel Agents Choice Awards 2012

Local Economy

crawley west sussex

Photo Credit: Matt Davis via Flickr

Situated in Crawley, West Sussex, the success of Gatwick has had positive effects for the local economy, mainly in the creation of jobs in the South East area. Around 23,000 people are employed directly by the airport, with a further 20,000 in connected positions around the region.

Generating roughly £2 billion for the surrounding area, local companies benefit from the airport’s commercial activities and constant stream of incomers. This is known as the Gatwick Diamond sub-region, where a whole host of businesses from independent traders to global brands have all prospered.

However, like all airports near to residential zones, the effects on the local population can be mixed. Despite the economic prosperity, problems of regular aircraft noise, pollution and constant traffic can all upset nearby inhabitants. This has been a deciding factor in the ongoing debate around a controversial second runway proposal.

Recent Success

london gatwick airport

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Impressive growth figures in recent months is the primary reason why supporters believe the additional runway is necessary. Just in the summer alone, Gatwick is due to serve 6.8 million passengers between July 17th and September 2nd – an increase of 3% compared to the previous year. Impressively, this growth has been the 28th consecutive month where passenger numbers have increased.

This can be explained by a new generation of carriers providing long-distance flights at a lower cost. These new aircraft are also larger in size, and with an average load factor around 85% many more passengers can, and have been, enjoying Gatwick’s services in recent years.

gatwick airport

Photo Credit: Ernie Hathaway via Flickr

Another deciding factor has been the increase in long-haul routes and transatlantic flights in particular. A link between Norwegian Air Shuttle and Gatwick in 2014 has reinforced this, with low cost travel to U.S destinations proving extremely popular. Likewise, Middle Eastern destinations have been showing positive movements, aided by flights to Dubai three times a day.

Gatwick has flights to around 200 destinations across the globe already, more than any other airport in the UK, and with additional routes being added to such countries as Indonesia, Russia and Iceland, this increasing traffic is showing no signs of slowing down.

Feature Image Credit: Still Burning via Flickr

If you enjoyed this blog post then perhaps you’d like to read “The Royal Dock Regeneration in London“?

Student Property Investors Celebrate Record Number of Students in 2015

Posted on 13th August 20158th October 2015 by Aspen Woolf UK

A record number of students are expected to head to university this year after more than 409,000 were accepted on to courses with their A-level results. With more students than ever passing their A-levels and no caps on Universities accepting students the demand for Student Housing has been pushed to new heights. Aspen Woolf joins their many Student Property Investors in hailing this year’s A-Level results as demand for accommodation grows even higher this year.

Congratulations to the 409,410 students that had been accepted onto a higher education course! It is officially the largest number ever recorded on A-level results day, according to UCAS.

Hundreds of thousands of young students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are receiving their A-level results Today on Thursday the 13th of August, 2015.

Rising overall pass rates should always be celebrated. And this year they are made all the more remarkable seeing as the number of exams taken has increased by 2% compared to 2014 – with a total of 850,749 entries recorded.

The UCAS university admissions service says 409,410 places have been confirmed, an increase of 3% on the previous year, an equivalent of about 13,000 students.

“The over-riding message from this year’s figures is one of stability. There have been no significant changes to the system,” said Michael Turner, director of the Joint Council for Qualifications.

Initial figures from UCAS show a 5% increase in places for 18 year olds in the UK, but few among older age groups. Additionally, the number of international students and students from the European Union has also increased.

This year’s increase in student numbers brings about a second wave of celebrations as Student Property Investors see the demand for their properties rise even further. Aspen Woolf has seen enquiries flow through as a result of today’s news. According to Knight Frank, the demand for student property has far surpassed the supply for many years already. And it will be clear to see that with the increase in this year’s student numbers comes an increase in student accommodation requests.

As the Government abolished a cap on the number of places that institutions can offer a while ago, it means even more students are likely to find a place to study through clearing.

Mary Curnock Cook, the chief executive of UCAS, has told students who didn’t get the grades they were hoping for not to panic.

most-universities-will-want-to-talk-to-you

“Most universities will want to talk to you – but remember to prepare and do your research before discussing your options with them,” she said.

Last year, 512,000 people secured a place at university or college through UCAS, with 61,300 students being accepted through the clearing process alone.

While a record number of people have applied to university this year, an increasing number are looking for alternatives like apprenticeships and training schemes. The Government has started preparing for this new wave of students as it has pledged to create three million apprenticeship schemes by the end of this parliament.

With no fixed limit on the number of places universities are permitted to offer, there is likely to be more competition between students. With the removal on limits on student numbers it has prompted speculation that universities will try to attract more students at the last minute.

In the run-up to results day, some universities have been attempting to secure students on to courses by revising conditional offers into unconditional ones.

Pam Tatlow, of University Think Tank Million Plus, said Clearing would not be too different from previous years, despite the removal of the cap on student numbers, “A lot of activity has gone on before clearing in terms of unconditional offers, and as usual there will be competition and students will have choices to make,” she said.

“Students will have to keep calm and think about what is the right course for them.”

This is a great year for students as they get to weigh out their choices for future studies, and it’s also a great year for property investors as they see the demand for their investments rise to new levels. For more up to date student property information you can get in touch today. Aspen Woolf have already released a new development in the sought after city of Chester, just to mark this year’s occasion!

Ways to Increase Buy-To-Let Profits

Posted on 12th August 201518th February 2017 by Aspen Woolf UK

With the summer budget hindering buy-to-let property owners in the UK, landlords can be left looking for other ways to increase profit margins. Although first-time buyers will benefit from the announcement, existing home owners can only now claim tax relief on mortgage interest payments at 20%. This could be much lower than the previous marginal rate.

In this sense, squeezing as much money out of your incoming rent as possible has become more important for landlords. Here are a few ways to do so.

Tax Relief

tax relief

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Many landlords don’t realise they can offset various costs for tax purposes. The potential savings can be substantial, particularly through mortgage fees and interest. Although, as previously mentioned, the interest rate will be set at 20% from April 2017. Likewise, broker and arrangement fees can also be claimed back when the mortgage is taken out.

Further tax breaks can be made on letting agent fees, insurance premiums, general maintenance and utility bills, amongst others, which landlords should include on their self-assessment returns. If an accountant does this on your behalf then their fees are tax deductible also.

Landlord Insurance

insurance policy

Creative Commons Photo Credit: source

Although there is no legal necessity for to take out landlord insurance in the UK, it is highly advisable and usually required by mortgage lenders. Home buildings and contents insurance will not cover rented-out properties so be aware of this.

Shopping around for the cheapest insurance deal will help increase your buy-to-let profits. A recommended approach is by using price comparison websites or seeking out specialist insurance brokers. In addition, landlords with multiple properties can combine their entire portfolio under one policy to save money.

Tenants

student housing

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The price of insurance may depend on the occupants in your property. For example, long-standing professionals will be looked on more favourably than DSS tenants or a group of students. Their previous history can also be a factor as those with previous evictions or a criminal record can push premiums up.

You also need to have a strong degree of trust with new tenants as, if regular maintenance is required, your profits will be severely affected. In addition, landlords will be charged if any repairs are left unresolved or inadequate. Your insurance premium can also rise if household pets are present so consider this as well.

Area

globe

Photo Credit: Adam Thomas via Flickr

One simple way to increase profits is by researching rental hotspots where rates are high or expected to rise in the upcoming months. Most prospective landlords will only invest in property close by for convenience, neglecting larger profits that can be made further afield.

The recommended approach is to use various online outlets or estate agents to gather information. For example, a recent report by HSBC suggests that properties in cities such as Manchester, Blackpool and Kingston-Upon-Hull are producing healthy rental yields of nearly 8%.

Landlords across the UK should consider all options available to them in order to cut down costs and maximise profit margins. Look into all the possible tax breaks whilst choosing your tenants and location wisely to boost rent income.

If you liked this blog post then perhaps you’d like to read “Buy-To-Let Market Buoyed By Low Rates And More“?

The Royal Dock Regeneration in London

Posted on 6th August 201518th February 2017 by Aspen Woolf UK

Since the Royal Docks closed as functioning dockyards, the area has seen massive unemployment and an increase in poverty in the area. This is why the London Docklands Development Corporation was formed, with the intent of regenerating the area, finding new uses for the docklands and improving the area socially and economically for its residents.

The Royal Docks area has a length of 4km, spanning from Gallion’s Reach all the way through to the planned floating area. The area already boasts London City Airport, the ExCel centre and the University of East London. It is expected that by 2020 the whole regeneration project will be finished and East London will finally be given the value that it needs.

Transport

london transport

Photo Credit: Joshua Brown via Flickr

According to Londoners, East London has always been notoriously difficult to get to and around on public transport, however this is now changing. Huge investment has been made in the DLR, underground tubes, cross rail, boat services and now even cable cars to make the area easily accessible to all, from all parts of London. With this, the area is thriving with a whole wave of new restaurants, bars and hotels. You can now easily get to Canary Wharf, the City and the West End.

Business and Study

the crystal london royal dock

Photo Credit: Robert Pittman via Flickr

The London Royal Docks area is expected to be London’s next major business area, with an already designated ‘Enterprise Zone’ – the only one in London and has potential for a global market of international business.

The East London University is a thriving university growing in both size and status and the London Royal Docks area is proving to be the perfect place for students to live, study and socialise.

Accommodation

student flats london

Photo Credit: George Rex via Flickr

Along with the boost in business and study, the regeneration offers an array of excellent residential areas. Housing to accommodate not only those originated from the area, but also those who want to live close to where they work and study is second to none, making it desirable not only for business but also for social aspects. The local area has everything that residents may need including health care, libraries, community centres, places of worship, sports facilities and easy access to 9 of London’s leading universities.

Hoola

construction workers

Elvert Barnes via Flickr

One great example of the quality of residential accommodation that is springing up in the Royal Docks area is the new ‘Hoola’ development. Set in the Royal Victoria Docks, it offers 360 generous one, two or three bedroom apartments across two almost identical, glass fronted towers. The towers offer 360 degree views over Canary Wharf, the O2, the Olympic Park and the city of London, creating a stunning backdrop to everyday life.

Residents can also enjoy a gym, resident’s lounge and concierge service for extra security and comfort.

The regeneration of London’s Royal Docks is a massive benefit not only for East London, but for London as a whole. The impact of the Asian Business Port is expected to deliver 20,000 new jobs and £6 billion to the British GDP, and is expected to be widespread. The area is set to only get better as a place to live, work or study, so have a closer look at the area and get in there now whilst you can!

Feature image credit: www.thetimes.co.uk

If you liked this post then perhaps you’d like to read “7 of the Best Areas To Invest in Student Property in the UK“?

Have You Heard of Project Jennifer?

Posted on 4th August 201518th February 2017 by Aspen Woolf UK

Keeping our investors updated with on the rise areas and news that is specifically of use to property investors is something we like to do. This week the focus is on Liverpool. Liverpool has been in the top 10 property investment cities in the UK for a few years now. Nevertheless there is still much to be gained from the city.

Have you heard of ‘Project Jennifer’ yet? It’s the development scheme on Great Homer Street, better known as Project Jennifer, and it will see the creation of Liverpool’s largest Sainsbury’s supermarket, along with new market facilities, homes, a transport interchange and improved links to Everton Park.

What exactly will Project Jennifer mean to the city?

A new district centre, replacing the existing, failed, local centre
Liverpool’s largest food store, Sainsbury’s
80,000 sq ft of new shops (small, medium and large units)
New market facilities, indoor and outdoor are now open
New homes
Huge improvements to the local environment
900 free car parking spaces and a petrol filling station
Links to Everton Park where further exciting proposals are being drawn up by Liverpool City Council (Heritage trail and skate park)

Project Jennifer received detailed planning consent from Liverpool City Council last year – a full 10 years after the plan was first conceived.

Developers St. Modwen – who will lead the project in partnership with Liverpool city council – had begun work on site back in November 2014, and once complete will create an estimated 1,000 new jobs.

Councillor Malcolm Kennedy, Liverpool’s cabinet member for regeneration, said:
“Project Jennifer is an important progression for north Liverpool and will regenerate an area in real need of investment and development.

“We are looking forward to seeing this vital scheme delivered, which will make a massive difference to peoples’ lives – breathing new life into the area, providing first-class facilities and creating new jobs.”

Following the plans, Sainsburys is expected to begin development of its store this month, in July of 2015. The official opening is expected to take place during summer 2016 at the same time as the retail units on the eastern side of the scheme are due to open.

The scheme has taken more than a decade to get going after being originally conceived by the council in 2003 to regenerate the area and provide a range of new retail and community facilities. Mainly on hold due to the financial crisis of 2008. Now with situations improving and the city in need of the development more than ever, it is back on track to completion.

New District Centre – up to 1,000 new jobs and investment to create a better Liverpool

Project-Jennifer-New-District-Centre

The £140 million redevelopment will be anchored by Sainsburys, which will be the largest food store built in Liverpool to date, approx. 110,000 sq ft. It will also see 80,000 sq ft of additional retail units, 80,000 sq ft of employment units, and 480 new homes. The scheme will create a new hub of activity in North Liverpool and will act as a catalyst for the wider redevelopment of that part of the city.

Being part of the general regeneration the new state-of-the-art school, Notre Dame Catholic College also opened in September 2013, which will reside directly opposite the redevelopment.

The new shops are due to open in summer 2016

Project-Jennifer-New-Shops

Out of the 80,000 sq ft of new retail units, the sizes will range from 500 sq ft to 30,000 sq ft, all designed to accommodate the needs of local and national businesses.

With Great Homer Street being within 1.5 miles of Liverpool city centre it benefits from a 10 minute catchment of 200,000 people. The site for the retail development is between the main principal roads – Scotland Road and Great Homer Street – which lead to Liverpool city centre to the south and the suburbs, as well as key commuter towns of Crosby, Ormskirk and Formby to the north. One of the schemes major benefits is having 50% of commuter traffic from the north of the City pass through the site each and every day.

Project Jennifer will bring Liverpool much anticipated regeneration, jobs, and amenities that residents have been longing for since 2003. This huge scheme will no doubt have its success trickle through the city into property prices too. It’s now the best time to be looking at Liverpool for properties that would appreciate from Project Jennifer.

See our investment opportunities in Liverpool here

7 of the Best Areas To Invest in Student Property in the UK

Posted on 29th July 20154th January 2016 by Aspen Woolf UK

As rents continue to rise, student property has fast become one of the most popular investments. But if you’ve never done it before, where do you start? From John o’Groats to Land’s End, there are students in every pocket of the UK, including in the major cities of London, Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff, and Glasgow. Here are the top 7 places for student accommodation investment, to find investment opportunities in student property visit our student section.

Birmingham

Birmingham property investment

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Britain’s second city is becoming an increasingly popular student hotspot, and accommodation here is in high demand. Landlords can make money by purchasing a property close to the city centre and renting it out to students. After all, there are over 65,000 of them, including many at Aston University – one of the most attended universities in the Midlands. The Jewellery Quarter and St Paul’s Square areas are highly sought-after, and there is an increased demand for high quality student accommodation in a good location. There are a wide range of properties for sale close to the city’s universities, including houses, two-bedroom apartments, and smaller flats.

Brighton

Brighton property investment

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It’s famous for its pier and rock, but Brighton is also one of the UK’s top student cities, attracting people from all over the country (and the world). The town’s close proximity to London makes it a popular destination for students from the capital, although house prices here aren’t as cheap as they used to be. There are many properties that are located in the town centre, while others are closer to the beach. Landlords often purchase two or three bedroom apartments in Brighton and then rent them out to students from the University of Sussex and University of Brighton. The best areas to buy property? Look around the train station and close to one of the two aforementioned universities. If you can only afford something further away, make sure there are excellent public transport services to attract students.

Bristol

bristol property investment

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Bristol is up-and-coming, and today this city is attracting more students than ever before. The trendy area of Clifton is one of the most popular places for student property investment. Here you will find boutique shops, restaurants, and bars, and what’s more, it’s only half a mile from Bristol University. If you have the money, you can purchase a larger flat, and then turn the lounge into an extra bedroom, which will generate more income. You can also turn the kitchen area into a communal space. A recent report suggested house prices in the south west of England had reached a record high, seemingly turning Bristol into a seller’s market.

London

london property investment

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The big one. The country’s capital and one of the world’s busiest cities is home to many educational institutions, and demand for student accommodation here is unlike anywhere else in the UK. You’ll need to have a big budget if you’re planning on purchasing a home in the centre of the city and converting it into student flats, especially with house prices being as high as they are. As London is so easy to get around via public transport, you might want to find accommodation in one of the outer boroughs. Although homes here will still be more expensive than most parts of the country, they will be considerably less than those in the centre of town. However, if money’s no object, then look for property close to institutions such as University College London, which attracts students from all over the world. A house close to an Underground station or bus stop is preferable, but with the London property market being as it is, you really can’t go wrong wherever you choose to buy in the capital.

Ipswich

ipswich property investment

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There are plenty of town houses in Ipswich which are being turned into student properties. However, if you’re looking for property, the golden rule is location, location, location. Look for homes that are within walking distance from the town’s university campus, and Suffolk New College – one of the most attended further education institutions in the area. If you’re up for a challenge, you might be able to turn an old business into student flats, especially if you have a large budget. Alternatively, you can convert a Victorian townhouse into accommodation, and make use of the basement space by turning this area into additional bedrooms.

Canterbury

Canterbury property investment

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Canterbury is steeped in history, and is one of the most visited cities in the country. Attracting tourists from around the world, the city is known for its historical skyline, cathedral, and distinctive architecture. Canterbury is also a student city, with plenty to offer when it comes to accommodation. There are plenty of older three-story buildings (many of which were constructed in the 1900s) that can be converted into student accommodation. Clever landlords have already created spacious reception rooms and plenty of bedroom space, whilst making the most out of the small gardens at the rear of the property. The University of Kent is where you should be looking for homes (well, within a two mile radius of the campus). Remember – if you’re unfamiliar with the area but still want to invest, make sure you visit Canterbury first to get a feel for the type of accommodation that’s on offer here.

Exeter

exeter property investment

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Exeter University recently became a member of the Russell Group – a league of educational institutions that excel in research. Because of this, more students are expected to be settling down in the city in the near future, and demand for accommodation will sky rocket. The city is known for its four-bedroom town properties, and these can easily be converted into student accommodation. However, you’ll have to factor in the cost of repair work – especially as some of these buildings are old and in need of some maintenance. As always, the areas around the campus and the city centre are ideal places to look for homes, but if you opt for a property further afield, make sure there are parking spaces or bus links.

New to property investing and found this article useful? Why not follow it up with the 5 Mistakes Property Investors Make before you jump into things!

Feature image credit: Modyg via Flickr

Investing in Student Property in Liverpool

Posted on 28th July 201518th February 2017 by Aspen Woolf UK

Along with its proud heritage and healthy local economy, Liverpool is a thriving university city with a large and increasing student intake every year. This makes it an attractive proposition for property investors looking to tap into the continuous demand for student accommodation. For prospective landlords, this guide will look at Liverpool’s potential for investment.

A Quick Look at Liverpool

Liverpool is one of the most distinguished cities in the UK, famous for its musical heritage, successful football teams and standout regional accent. Liverpudlians, or Scousers as they are popularly known, have a proud local identity, but are also welcoming to tourists and immigrants from all over the world.

During the 19th century Liverpool flourished throughout the Industrial Revolution as a major UK port city, creating a gateway for the British Empire and its vast trading network. This also brought in many migrants to the region looking for work on the docks, particularly from Ireland.

At the start of the 21st century, although Liverpool relies less on the port as an economic resource, the rest of the city had undergone a financial and physical resurgence. This has only been aided by the city’s flourishing tourism sector, boosted with the award of the European Capital of Culture in 2008.

Economy

david cameron economy

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This economic prosperity and increasing investment in various sectors of private enterprise has been an appealing focal point for student property investors over recent years, looking to cash in on the ever-present upsurge.

Employment figures are improving in line with the national average, with fewer people claiming job seekers allowance moving into 2015. The service sector accounts for the majority of employment in areas such as public administration, education, health and finance.

The city has a population of around 470,000, located within a wider Merseyside population of over 2 million. In addition, a steady stream of tourists make Liverpool the fifth most visited city in the UK, bringing in over £1 billion to the local economy every year.

Regeneration

liverpool regeneration

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With the city in seemingly good shape and expected to keep growing, Liverpool has been the subject of multi-million pound regeneration projects throughout the 21st century. The impressive Superport is home to some of the world’s leading manufacturing companies, aiding many major UK, Irish and global shipment links. A new £1 billion deep-water terminal is due to become operational in late 2015 as well.

Another recent regeneration project has taken place on Liverpool’s Waterfront area with a £40 million exhibition centre and £26 million hotel expected to be completed by 2016. In addition to a £1.5 billion scheme to regenerate the Kings Dock and Lime Street areas, Liverpool is fast becoming one of the UK’s most desirable cities to invest in.

Transport

liverpool transport

Photo Credit: Andrew Jones via Flickr

Liverpool has fantastic transport links providing easy access around the Merseyside region and all across the country. The M62 passes through Manchester and Leeds on its way to the east coast, whilst also providing a route onto the M6 (for Birmingham) and M1 (London).

The city is well served by bus, with the Queens Square and Liverpool One terminals providing numerous services around Merseyside. In terms of railways, there are numerous stations throughout the city such as Lime Street, South Parkway, and Liverpool Central.

Located to the south of the metropolitan centre is Liverpool John Lennon Airport, around 7 miles away. Low-budget airlines such as Ryanair and Easyjet primarily operate from here with connecting flights offered across the UK and Europe.

Attractions

echo arena liverpool

Photo Credit: Parallax Corporation via Flickr

You can’t talk about Liverpool without mentioning its illustrious musical heritage, most notably as the birthplace of The Beatles. Nods to the Fab Four are dotted all around the city, none more so than the world famous Cavern Club, a regular haunt of the band in the 60’s, situated on Mathew Street.

The Cavern lines up alongside an eclectic list of many other live music venues, notably the Attic, Sound and Kazimier. The 12,000 capacity Liverpool Echo Arena plays host when big acts are in town, also accommodating large sporting events and conferences. For a more refined music approach, the Philharmonic Hall is the chosen venue for classical concerts.

Liverpool and Everton fc are recognised all around the world, playing their home games at the famous Anfield and Goodison Park stadiums respectively. Other sports tend to play second fiddle to football, although there are plenty of sporting facilities to partake in such as the Awesome Walls climbing centre. Aintree race course is another notable attraction, home of the renowned Grand National horse race every April.

Culturally, Liverpool hosts an impressive array of theatres, museums and galleries. The Museum of Liverpool is well visited, whilst the Liverpool Empire and Unity Theatre stage a whole host of entertainment shows each year.

In terms of retail, Liverpool is well served by various shopping centres, notably St John’s and Liverpool One, and plenty of high street stores also.

Why choose to invest in Liverpool?

Photo Credit: *Psyche Delia* via Flickr

Despite its prominent national standing, Liverpool has less expensive house prices compared with the UK average. Terraced properties, accountable for the majority of sales in the city, were priced at just over £100,000 whilst flats were sold at an average of £109,000. These are the main types of property that make up private student accommodation, helped with an ongoing demand year on year.

Although one bedroom rental prices in Liverpool are £500 per calendar month on average, students will be looking at rooms lower than this at around £300 pcm. However, with many of these properties containing 4+ potential bedrooms, the numbers soon become attractive for prospective buyers.

Another thing to consider is the large quantity of international students who relocate to Liverpool, a figure estimated around 6,000 and predicted to rise in the coming years. These students are generally known to prefer higher end housing, a bonus for investors with a larger budget to spare.

Four main universities are located in Liverpool, home to over 50,000 students collectively. They each have their own identity and specialise in different areas of learning. Here is a closer look at each one.

The University Of Liverpool

university of liverpool

Photo Credit: University of Liverpool Library via Flickr

The University of Liverpool is the city’s most prominent higher education institution, founded in 1881 and boasting 9 Nobel Prize winners within its alumni. It offers over 250 Bachelors courses across 54 departments, homing around 19,000 students of mixed nationality.

The main campus is located in the city centre containing an assortment of lecture halls, teaching areas, research facilities and accommodation. The Liverpool Guild of Students – the university’s student union – comprises bars, restaurants, training facilities, and also hosts live events on a regular basis.

John Moores University

John Moores University comprises the largest student population in Liverpool, with a healthy number of new applicants each year. This is due to the reasonable UCAS points requirement alongside substantial 122 undergraduate courses on offer. In addition, the university has links with over 400 companies providing a viable route into employment for many graduates.

The City Campus is near to the prominent Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool Museum and Central Library, making it a perfect location for undergraduates to partake in extra-curricular studies. Nearby is the Mount Pleasant Campus, home to the faculty of Business and Law, whilst the I.M Marsh Campus is located in Aigburth which is a short drive away.

Liverpool Hope University

liverpool hope university

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With the main campus situated outside the city centre in Childwall, Liverpool Hope University gives prospective landlords more scope to invest in property away from the metropolitan area. However, the university has fewer students in comparison with its regional counterparts, numbering around 7,000.

The university was founded on Christian principles but does accept applicants from all faiths. Academically, Liverpool Hope is divided into 3 main faculties – Arts and Humanities, Education and Science – which have been the subject of multi-million pound refurbishments over the past few years.

The Liverpool Institute For Performing Arts (LIPA)

Finally we come to the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, a highly distinguished institution focused on various branches of the arts including music, dance and theatre. The brainchild of Sir Paul McCarthy and opened by the Queen in 1996, LIPA is regularly found near the top of specialist institution ranking tables.

Places are particularly hard to come by, with an acceptance rate of under 5% in recent years. This keeps enrolment numbers down, but because the university doesn’t have associated housing of its own, landlords can still capitalise on the surplus of students looking for private accommodation.

Student Housing Areas

student housing liverpool

Photo Credit: Alan Stanton via Flickr

Students across Liverpool tend to congregate in the same areas year on year. Researching these neighbourhoods can be a good starting place for landlords looking to invest in student property.

Students with a higher budget, often from abroad, will usually look to the city centre for their accommodation. The close proximity to their campus, cultural hotspots and other amenities is a natural draw. The number of private residential developments has doubled in recent years, partly because many students are relocating from the outer suburbs.

However, many second and third year students still group together when they move from their halls into one of Liverpool’s outer regions. Within walking distance are the Kensington, Toxeth and Tuebrook areas, popular student-friendly zones. Littered with terraced housing and flats, properties can comprise anything up to 9+ bedrooms.

Further afield lie Wavertree and Picton, with the notable Smithdown Road a prominent student living area. Rent is generally cheaper here and bus services into the centre are regular. Shops, takeaways and parks are all nearby, all part of the idyllic student lifestyle.

With Liverpool John Moores having a campus based at Aigburth, this is another area to consider investing in. A predominantly residential suburb with local amenities, excellent bus links and Sefton Park nearby, rents are generally higher per calendar month here.

When targeting the student market, investors should be aware the market is generally competitive, especially in the prime student living areas as noted above. However, investments are often of a low-risk, high yield nature, topped off with instant equity gain.

Student Life

liverpool students

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Liverpool is certainly up there as one of the top university cities in the UK, with an impressive social scene and thriving student community. This is a big draw for applicants who often consider life outside of the lecture theatre.

Students can delve into the abundance of sporting facilities offered by their respective universities. For example, the University of Liverpool boasts a state of the art fitness centre and numerous grass pitches designed for a variety of sports. There are various clubs and societies to join in fact, from traditional British sports to martial arts and rock climbing.

In terms of nightlife, there is literally something for everyone if and when they decide to hit the town. All tastes in style, music and social scene are catered for across many different parts of the city.

Although Albert Dock plays host to many high quality restaurants and cocktail bars, students will likely flock to the more accessible Concert Square with such recognisable names as Revolution, Walkabout and Baa Baa. Medication is another popular haunt, especially on the cheaper Wednesday nights.

With a booming student population and thriving local economy, Liverpool is a haven for student property over a number of areas in the city. Landlords are guaranteed healthy occupancy rates year on year along with high rental yields. However, they must take the correct precautions before investing and stay within their set budget. Taking out the proper landlord insurance is also highly recommended for student properties.

If you enjoyed this blog post then perhaps you’d like to read “A Guide To Investing In Student Property in Newcastle 2015“?

Why Now is a Great Time to Invest in Spanish Property

Posted on 17th July 201518th February 2017 by Aspen Woolf UK

Spain – synonymous to all Brits with sun, sea and sangria – has, over recent years, had its reputation tarnished somewhat. Thanks to the global financial crisis of 2008, many Britons had their fingers burnt when investing in property abroad, and Spain was one of the biggest culprits.

However, listening to numerous tales of woe does not tell the full story. Many of those who were worst affected bought at the height of the Spanish property boom and left themselves with nowhere to go but down. Today, however, the situation is very different indeed.

Why invest in Spain today?

Photo Credit: Tomás Fano via Flickr

Things have slowly been improving across the country over the last year or so. The Spanish government brought in timely measures that, although painful for many at the time, seem to have helped turn this beautiful country around. Things are on the up in Spain.

2014 saw unemployment drop by a quarter of a million and the country’s GDP grew by 0.9% in just the first quarter of 2015 alone. This growth is 18 times that of the United States, and the country’s output for the same period rose at three times the rate of the UK. Spain has beaten all expectations to become an economy to watch over the coming months and years.

The Pound Vs. the Euro

pound verses euro

Photo Credit: Andrew Gustar via Flickr

Thanks to all that is currently happening in Greece, the Pound has gained strength against the Euro in recent months. Historically too, the Pound has been the dominant currency despite its 2008 low period. Many analysts are predicting strong times ahead for the Pound with further uncertainty across the eurozone.

International money transfers have never been easier either, thanks mainly to the increasing use of the World Wide Web. Here at Aspen Woolf, we have our own international money transfer service which enables our clients to obtain far better rates than those offered by the High Street banks – a choice that simply wasn’t available a decade or so ago.

Where to invest?

spend or invest

Photo Credit: Chris Potter via Flickr

While Spain on the whole may be experiencing a move in the right direction, it’s essential to know exactly where to invest your money in order to see the best returns. One such area is often to referred to as Spain’s Golden Triangle; the three points of which are Estepona, Benahavis and Marbella.

Property prices are low in this region, despite its solid reputation. Developments such as Hoyo 19 Los Flamingos – part of the Los Flamingos Golf Resort – which sits almost centrally within the three points of the triangle, offer investors a fantastic opportunity to purchase property at a price that should allow for growth in the future. It’s provision of specialist golfing experience, easy access to beaches and restaurants, and it’s vast range of incredible, awe-inspiring views make this resort the envy of almost any location in the world.

murcia spain

Photo Credit: Kristaps Bergfelds via Flickr

La Manga Club in Murcia (among those nominated as “the most attractive” area in 2012,) also offers absolutely breathtaking scenery alongside beautiful interior designs and comforts. This sports and leisure club currently boasts 40/50% below peak selling prices, so there’s really not much to wait for at all if you’re considering your first or next move in international property investment.

It is not just us who are predicting good things for the Spanish property market. Global billionaires such as George Soros, Bill Gates, Carlos Slim and John Paulson have all been investing heavily in the country’s real estate too. When you look at the track record of renowned businessmen such as these, very few mistakes are made.

While riding on other people’s coattails may not seem like the most intuitive reason to make an investment, if you’re going to follow anybody, these guys are the ones to fall in behind.

Feature image credit: CameliaTWU via Flickr

A Guide To Investing In Student Property in Newcastle 2015

Posted on 11th July 20158th October 2015 by Aspen Woolf UK

With a student population of over 50,000 at Newcastle and Northumbria universities combined, along with a string of colleges in the city, the buy-to-let market is continuously healthy for investors. This guide will take a look at the city of Newcastle and its universities in more depth, along with the most desirable student areas for property investment.

Newcastle

The North East of England is recognised as a friendly and lively region to inhabit, with Newcastle-Upon-Tyne at its economic centre. There is a vibrant nightlife, along with an abundance of supermarkets, shopping centres and high street stores. The cost of living is generally cheaper than other major cities in the UK, and the potential for economic growth remains strong.

The city lies on the northern bank of the River Tyne, a vital historical trading link with the rest of the UK and into the North Sea. Newcastle’s most notable landmark, the Tyne Bridge, crosses the river linking with Gateshead to the south.

Geordies are known for their passionate support of Newcastle United Football Club, based at St. James’ Park right in the heart of the city. With football so dominant in the local mindset, other sports are less followed but still well supported nonetheless. Also notable is the Great North Run, one of the world’s most popular half marathon races.

Newcastle is served well by public transport, with extensive bus and train links providing local as well as national connections. The Tyne and Wear Metro is another distinguishing feature of the city as one of only three light metro systems in the UK. Connections take place all around the north-east region and Newcastle International Airport.

newcastle

Why Invest in Newcastle?

With healthy student numbers each year, landlords are drawn to the Newcastle area for assured yield figures and full occupancy potential. Students often choose to relocate to private houses or flats in larger numbers, meaning that rent figures can be of high value during term time.

Property reports suggest that the north-east has the lowest ratio of rooms to students in the current climate, meaning that a property is very likely to attract tenants once listed. There are many types of accommodation to consider investing in, from city centre apartment blocks to terraced homes in residential areas.

In addition, with the two Newcastle universities homing around 9,000 international students every year, the ongoing demand for upscale accommodation is also high. These types of student, particularly from Asia and North America, typically have higher budgets to spend.

Although the majority of students will look to the outer areas of the city for private rooms, the inner-city market is bourgeoning also. Purpose-built flats with inclusive gyms, communal areas and laundry rooms are becoming more popular, especially with foreign students and postgraduates. Net rental returns are healthy for these types of property, often reaching figures of up to 10% within two years.

Savills is one of the UK’s leading estate agents with a major research scheme highlighting movement in the country’s property market. They rank Newcastle as one of the leading regions of opportunity for student property investors. Return on investment figures are promising and are expected to remain steady in coming years.

Regeneration Plans

Newcastle Council are currently implementing a 15-year regeneration plan so that all communities in the city will benefit from the economic, social and environmental improvements by 2021.

The Ouseburn is one such example of this modern rejuvenation, a development project which will create around new 60 apartments along with a new cycle hub, restaurant, cafe and outdoor public space. The innovative design of the new complex is being showcased as a template for European architects.

newcastle

Newcastle University

Newcastle University has a student population of around 17,000 undergraduates and 6,000 postgraduates. The 50-acre main campus is located close to the Haymarket area of the city and contains of various university buildings, lecture halls, research labs as well as the student union. The three main faculties are Science, Agriculture and Engineering, Humanities, and Social Sciences and Medical Sciences, where there are up to 200 undergraduate courses to choose from.

The university performs well in many of the criteria used to calculate university league tables where it is positioned in the top 30. Students recorded a 90% satisfaction rate with their course, whilst an impressive 97% of former students are employed or in further study six months after graduating.

Northumbria University

A short walk away is Northumbria University, a business-focused and well-respected institution with around 30,000 students in total. It gained its university status in 1992 and has climbed the league tables ever since, making it one of the fastest improving universities in terms of student satisfaction and graduate prospects.

The City Campus is split into two sections; the East buildings include the highly ranked Newcastle Business School, whilst the West buildings contain various Science schools along with the library and students union. The Coach Lane Campus is situated outside of the Newcastle city centre in Benton, although a free shuttle bus provides transport between the two. It is home to School of Health, Community and Education Studies and its own independent student union.

Student Areas

Although most first year students tend to live in halls of residence linked to the university they will tend to look for private accommodation as they progress through the years. This is also the case with postgraduate and international students.

The areas they relocate to depend on which university they attend, along with the whereabouts of their lecture halls and campus. In this sense, investors should look to these student-friendly areas which are highly sought after. We have listed a few here to consider.

newcastle students

City Centre

With the two universities located not far apart in the city centre, many students prefer to remain nearby. An abundance of shops, bars, restaurants, cinemas and music venues are all on their doorstep along with the university buildings themselves. There is a relatively low cost of living compared with the UK national average in inner city areas.

Shieldfield

Shieldfield lies just on the outskirts of the city centre within walking distance of both Newcastle and Northumbria universities. This is an important contemplation for many students who want easy access to their place of study. Student housing is primarily small terraced housing on a small council estate whilst there are also a number of Halls of Residence in the vicinity. Many major supermarkets and local convenience stores service the Shieldfield population.

Heaton

The majority of student homes can be found in Heaton, situated on to the east of the city centre and close to both universities. Buses regularly connect residents to campus buildings and walking takes around twenty minutes on foot. Properties here are mostly Victorian-styled terraced buildings made up of 4+ bedrooms. Local shops serve the area, whilst the Chillingham Road metro station is also close by. Many students also take advantage of the local Heaton Park when the weather is suitable.

Jesmond

To the north is Jesmond, a residential suburb but popular with students looking for a quieter way of life away from their studies. Some properties in the area can be considered upmarket compared to traditional idea of student housing. There are trendy nightspots and classy restaurants on Osborne Road and Brentwood Avenue respectively, whilst Acorn Road contains plenty of shops for everyday needs. Cycle paths provide an environmentally-friendly route into the centre, whilst the Metro system also passes through.

Sandyford

Sandwiched in between Heaton and Jesmond is the lesser known Sandyford, a relatively quiet suburban area again with all the required local amenities close by. On Starbeck Avenue lies the fitting named Starbeck chippy, alongside a quirky café and sandwich shop. Nearby is Archbold Terrace where plenty of bar/restaurants are filled with students both during the day and night.

Fenham

Out the other way lies Fenham, located west of the metropolitan centre and generally less expensive in monthly rent costs. The population is ethnically diverse and commerce is largely Asian based. Students living here often take advantage of the many sporting facilities and nearby gym. Also worthy of note is the public library and swimming pool which are listed buildings, cherished by the local community. Bus services into Newcastle are very frequent and take only around 5 minutes.

newcastle student studying

Student Life

Newcastle is one of the leading student cities in the UK, famed for its friendly inhabitants and exciting nightlife. There is always something to get up to all throughout the week, especially as many establishments offer cheap drink deals to keep students coming.

In terms of places to go, there is something for everyone to enjoy regardless of price, style and music taste. The Diamond Strip has a collection of more upmarket bars and clubs attracting a young, stylish crowd, similar to the fashionable Quayside area. For a cheaper night out, students tend to head to their respective unions or local pubs.

The Gate is a notable complex which includes 12-screen cinema, restaurants, bars, and clubs all under one roof. In addition, the usual big name cinema chains are dotted all across the city showing all the latest blockbuster releases. The Tyneside Cinema is a popular independent establishment presenting a range of cult films, often favoured by students during the day.

Geordies love their live music and there’s always something taking place throughout the week. The Metro Radio Arena, O2 Academy or City Hall play host to the more established acts throughout the year, whilst the Cluny, Riverside and Jazz Cafe are intimate venues with a more chilled out atmosphere.

With student loans at the ready, there are plenty of shopping opportunities in Newcastle also. The Eldon Square Shopping Centre is at the heart of the city centre, buzzing with thousands of consumers on a daily basis. The centre contains over 150 stores, many of them leading high street names, along with a new restaurant quarter. There is also the Monument Mall, Fenwick Department Store and Northumberland Street for further shopping opportunities in Newcastle.

Like most universities, the range of sports and social clubs is extensive at both Newcastle institutions. Newcastle University students can head to Cochrane Park, venue to the more traditional sports of football, rugby and cricket, whilst Northumbria boasts Sport Central, an extremely impressive centre with an array of fitness activities to choose from.

Although up in the north east region, Newcastle isn’t cut off from the rest of the country as some prospective applicants may expect. Extensive travel links provide easy access around the UK, and London is only 3 hours away by train. In addition, the Metro system is a blessing for students without their own transport. Services run frequently throughout the day to and from Haymarket, which is the nearest station to both universities.

Liked this article, but want to find out about other cities? Why not read our guide on investing in student property in Leeds.

What The Future Holds For The UK Property Market If A ‘Grexit’ Comes To Pass

Posted on 8th July 201526th October 2015 by Aspen Woolf UK

08 Jul

The Greek financial situation, and the knock-on effect that has been witnessed in financial markets across the globe, has led to a spate of doom-ladened media pieces predicting catastrophes rivaling the Mayan calendar and the Y2K millennium bug. It is little wonder then that many professional property investors, homeowners and portfolio managers are asking what a possible Grexit (Greek/exit) would mean for the UK property market.

What exactly is happening there?

Banks across Greece have been closed until a referendum on whether or not to accept greater austerity measures is held on Sunday; a move that has left analysts speculating that a Grexit is increasing in possibility. ATMs are still open to the public, but a maximum withdrawal limit of €60 (£42) per day has been put in place to protect the country’s financial system and economy.

Greece has been experiencing widespread financial problems since 2010 after amassing huge debts during previous years that it is no longer able to pay. Bailouts by Eurozone partners and the IMF have had little effect thanks largely to the austerity measures put in place by the Greek government. These plans have led to huge unemployment figures and a depression that is taking its toll on the Greek people.

Image Credit: Chris Goldberg

What has Greece got to do with Britain?

Why is a small country like Greece causing such massive global waves and what effect is it likely to have on Britain? Well, the main concern of central bankers across the world is the chance of a contagion effect similar to that of the Lehman Brothers collapse of 2008. If the Greeks pull out of the Eurozone it would undoubtedly leave investors wondering, ‘Who’s next?’ In the absence of any hard and fast answers, those investors could start to dump all forms of sovereign debt and create a panic in financial markets across the globe.

Many optimistic experts predict that Britain could actually benefit from such a move. As we chose to not enter into the Eurozone in 1997, we could be seen as a safe haven to many international investors. Our direct exposure to the Greek economy is not that great in the grand scheme of things. However, the UK is a shareholder in the International Monetary Fund and they own around €32 billion of the Greek debt, but we hold only a very small percentage. Britain’s stake is 4.5%, whereas the US has a whopping 17.6%.

However, the pessimists would be quick to point out that we are still tied to the continent through trade, so a European slump would have a negative impact on the British economy. Exporters will be hit and jobs would be lost, and business investment would likely be troubled too – making another recession ever more likely.

Image Credit: Simon Cunningham

What about the property market?

So, what does this mean for the UK property market? It really is too early to call. On the one hand we could see an influx of investments coming from overseas into what many would see as a safe haven, thus pushing prices up. But the more cautious analyst could predict that the knock-on effect will be so great that, even with Britain’s meager exposure, a new recession is inevitable.

It is certainly interesting times both at home and abroad. Keeping a close eye on market movements both locally and globally may be the key to staying ahead of the game, but which way the chips will fall is really anybody’s guess.

To keep up to date with the latest in property investment news simply check in with our blog.

Feature image credit: Dimas Barquilla