If you are a potential landlord looking to invest in a buy-to-let property, Belsize Park is a great location to consider. Situated in the heart of London, Belsize Park offers a range of residential properties, excellent transport links and a vibrant community. In this blog post, we will explore the housing market and transport links in Belsize Park to help you make an informed decision about investing in this area.

Residential Properties

Belsize Park offers a diverse range of residential properties, including flats, apartments and houses. There are approximately 4,500 residential properties in Belsize Park, with 1 bedroom flats being the most common property type. The breakdown of property types in Belsize Park is as follows:

1 bedroom flats - 50%

2 bedroom flats - 30%

3 bedroom flats and houses - 20%

It's important to consider the type and number of bedrooms when investing in a buy-to-let property, as this will affect the rental value and demand for the property. Belsize Park's property mix is slightly different from the London average, which has a higher proportion of 2 and 3 bedroom properties.

Housing Stock

In terms of housing stock, approximately 60% of residential properties in Belsize Park are owner-occupied, while the remaining 40% are rented. This is slightly lower than the London average, which has a higher proportion of rented properties. It's important to consider the renting vs occupier rate when investing in a buy-to-let property, as this will affect the demand and rental income potential.

Average House Prices 

House prices are also an important factor to consider when investing in buy-to-let property, as they can impact the overall return on investment. According to recent data, the average house price for a 1-bedroom property in Belsize Park is around £735,000, £1.3 million for a 2-bedroom property and £2.5 million for a 3-bedroom property. These figures being much higher than the London average can make it a challenging location for first-time investors with limited capital. However, for investors with a higher budget, Belsize Park can offer an attractive investment opportunity due to the potential for high rental incomes and strong capital growth.

Age of the Housing Stock 

Belsize Park has a mix of old and new housing stock, with some properties dating back to the early 1800s. Approximately 10% of the housing stock in Belsize Park is new build, which is lower than the London average. When choosing a buy-to-let location, it's important to consider the age of the housing stock as it can affect the maintenance and repair costs.

Transport Links 

Belsize Park is well connected by train and bus links, making it easy for residents to commute to other areas of London. Belsize Park tube station is on the Northern line and is located in Zone 2. The station is serviced by six trains per hour in each direction, with journey times to central London taking approximately 15-20 minutes. In addition to Belsize Park station, residents can also use nearby stations such as Swiss Cottage and Chalk Farm.

Belsize Park is also well served by bus routes, with several buses stopping in the area. The bus links in Belsize Park are comparable to the London average, with frequent services to nearby areas and central London.

The commute times in Belsize Park are relatively short, thanks to its excellent transport links. Commuters can easily reach central London within 20 minutes via the Northern line from Belsize Park station. Additionally, there are several bus routes that provide quick and easy access to nearby areas such as Camden and Hampstead.

Conclusion

Investing in a buy-to-let property in Belsize Park is a wise decision for potential landlords. With its diverse range of residential properties, excellent transport links, and short commute times, Belsize Park is a highly desirable location for renters. The mix of owner-occupied and rented properties and the high average house prices also indicate a strong demand for rental properties in the area. When considering investing in Belsize Park, it's important to carefully consider the type and number of bedrooms, the renting vs occupier rate, the average house prices, the age of the housing stock, and the transport links to ensure a successful investment.

Belsize Park is a picturesque neighbourhood known for its tree-lined streets, green spaces, and stunning Victorian and Edwardian architecture. The area's history can be traced back to the 17th century when it was originally known as Manor of Belsize. In the late 19th century, the area was developed into a residential suburb, and since then, it has been a sought-after location for families, young professionals and students. In this article, we'll explore some key factors to consider when investing in a buy-to-let property in Belsize Park.

Population Size and Growth

Belsize Park has a population of around 13,000 people. Over the past decade, the population has grown by approximately 6%, which is in line with the average growth rate for London boroughs. However, what sets Belsize Park apart is its demographic makeup. The area has a higher proportion of young professionals and students compared to other areas of London. This is due to its proximity to universities and the City of London, as well as its vibrant cultural scene.

Age of Population

The age demographic of Belsize Park is quite diverse. While it has a higher proportion of young professionals and students, the area also attracts families and older residents. According to the 2011 census, 41% of the population were aged between 20-39 years, while 21% were aged 40-59 years, and 14% were aged 60 and above. This compares to the UK average of 31% of the population aged between 20-39 years, 31% aged 40-59 years, and 23% aged 60 and above. The diverse age range of the population is another factor that makes Belsize Park an attractive location for property investors.

Employment Rate

Belsize Park has a high employment rate, with 82% of the working-age population in employment. This is higher than the UK average of 75.5%. The area is well-connected to the City of London, which provides many employment opportunities for professionals. In addition, Belsize Park has a thriving small business community, with many independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing employment for local residents.

Education Level

Belsize Park has a highly educated population, with over 60% of residents having a degree-level qualification. This is much higher than the UK average of 38%. The area is home to several prestigious universities, including University College London, the University of London, and the London School of Economics. In addition, there are several high-performing schools in the area, making it an attractive location for families with children. The number of students in Belsize Park is around 5,000, making up approximately 40% of the population. This high concentration of students is another factor that makes Belsize Park an attractive location for property investors, as there is always a high demand for rental properties.

Crime Rate

Belsize Park has a relatively low crime rate compared to other areas of London. According to the latest crime statistics, there were 1,293 reported crimes in the area in the last 12 months. This is a crime rate of 100.5 per 1,000 population, which is lower than the average crime rate for London of 121.5 per 1,000 population. While no area is entirely crime-free, Belsize Park is generally considered a safe and secure location.

Conclusion

Investing in a buy-to-let property in Belsize Park is a wise decision due to the area's attractive demographic makeup. With a diverse population, high employment opportunities, and excellent educational institutions, the area is popular with young professionals, families, and students. The population growth rate is in line with the average for London boroughs, and the crime rate is relatively low compared to other areas of London. The high demand for rental properties in the area, particularly among the student population, makes Belsize Park an attractive location for property investors.

• Council name: Camden Council, 020 7974 4444, customersupport@camden.gov.uk, https://www.camden.gov.uk/
• HMO licence contact: Private Sector Housing Team, 020 7974 4444, privatesectorhousing@camden.gov.uk, https://www.camden.gov.uk/houses-in-multiple-occupation
• Council tax website: https://www.camden.gov.uk/council-tax
• Civic amenities website: https://www.camden.gov.uk/civic-amenities
• Website for list of Belsize Park schools: https://www.camden.gov.uk/schools-directory
• Trading standards contact number: 03454 040506, trading.standards@camden.gov.uk, https://www.camden.gov.uk/trading-standards
• EPC register contact number: 0300 1234 121, enquiries@epcregister.com, https://www.epcregister.com/
• Waste collection contact number: 020 7974 2202, uk.occamden@veolia.com, https://www.camden.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste
• GSC register contact number: 0800 408 5500, info@gassaferegister.co.uk, https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/
• List of postcodes in the area: NW3, NW6

Brentford and Isleworth offers a range of residential properties, as well as a diverse rental market. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the housing stock, prices, and development projects in the area, as well as the transport links and commute times to help you make an informed decision about investing in the area.

Housing Stock in Brentford and Isleworth

The area has a total of around 3,000 properties, with the majority being 1 and 2 bedroom flats, followed by 3 bedroom houses. This is slightly lower than the average for London as a whole, where the majority of properties are 2 and 3 bedrooms. 

Rental Market in Brentford and Isleworth

In Brentford and Isleworth, around 30% of properties are currently available to rent, with the remaining 70% being owner-occupied. This is slightly lower than the average for London, where around 35% of properties are available to rent. It’s important to consider the renting v occupier rate when choosing a buy-to-let location, as a higher percentage of rental properties can indicate a strong demand for rental housing in the area.

Average House Prices in Brentford and Isleworth

The average house price for 1 bedroom flats in Brentford and Isleworth is around £300,000, with 2 bedroom flats averaging at around £400,000 and 3 bedroom houses at £500,000. This is much lower than the average for London as a whole, where 1 bedroom flats average at £450,000, 2 bedroom flats at £600,000 and 3 bedroom houses at £800,000.

New Build Properties in Brentford and Isleworth

Brentford and Isleworth has a good mix of older and newer properties, with around 15% of the housing stock being new builds. This is slightly lower than the average for London, where around 20% of properties are new builds. It’s important to consider the age of the housing stock when choosing a buy-to-let location, as newer properties may require less maintenance and have more modern amenities, whereas older properties may have more character and charm.

Major Housing Development Projects in Brentford and Isleworth

There are several major housing development projects in Brentford and Isleworth, including the Brentford Community Stadium and Brentford Lock West. For more information on these and other housing development projects in the area, visit the Hounslow Council website.

Transport Links in Brentford and Isleworth

Both Brentford and Isleworth have easy access to the Piccadilly line. Brentford Station is located in the town centre, providing quick and convenient access to central London, while Isleworth Station is located on the outskirts of the town, with connections to Hounslow, Ealing, and Acton.

In addition to the Underground, Brentford and Isleworth also have bus connections throughout the area and to surrounding areas. Bus routes 237, 267, and H91 run through Brentford, connecting it to places like Hounslow, Ealing, and Heathrow Airport. Isleworth also has several bus routes, including the H28, which connects the town to Twickenham and Richmond, and the 190, which connects Isleworth to Hounslow and Feltham.

Brentford and Isleworth are both situated near major road networks such as the A4 and M4, making it easy to access other parts of London and the surrounding areas.

Finally, for those who prefer to cycle or walk, Brentford and Isleworth both have dedicated cycle lanes and footpaths, making it easy to explore the area on two wheels or on foot.

In conclusion, Brentford and Isleworth offers a diverse range of residential properties at relatively lower prices compared to London as a whole. With a mix of older and newer properties and several major housing development projects underway, the area offers plenty of investment opportunities. The rental market is also strong, with around 30% of properties available to rent. The area also boasts excellent transport links, with easy access to the Underground, buses, and major road networks.

• The council for Brentford and Isleworth is Hounslow Council. Their contact number is 020 8583 2000, their email is customerservicecentre@hounslow.gov.uk and their website is https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/.
• For HMO licence contact, their contact number is 020 8583 4371, their email is hmo@hounslow.gov.uk and their website is https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/200173/housingandland/929/applyforhmo_licence.
• For Council Tax, their website is https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/200129/council_tax.
• For civic amenities, their website is https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/200435/leisureandculture/984/civic_amenities.
• For a list of Brentford and Isleworth schools, their website is https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/200134/schoolsandeducation/18/schoolsinhounslow.
• For trading standards contact, their contact number is 020 8583 4477, their email is trading.standards@hounslow.gov.uk and their website is https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/200164/trading_standards.
• For EPC register contact, their contact number is 020 8583 2184, their email is epc@hounslow.gov.uk and their website is https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/200172/energyperformancecertificate