What to Do Before Selling a Buy-To-Let Property

If you’re a landlord looking to downsize your property portfolio, you may be thinking about selling one or more of your buy-to-let properties. This process isn’t always as straightforward as a regular property sale, so we’ve pulled together some FAQs to think about.

To sell to another landlord, keep it simple. Make sure the property is clean, clutter-free, and liveable – just as you would before renting it out yourself. This helps the buyer see its rental value and that it can be occupied quickly.

Increase your market by selling to potential residents. Again, make sure the property is clean and clutter-free, but make it feel more homely rather than just an investment opportunity.

In both cases, take care of any repairs prior to selling and get it deep cleaned before viewings begin.

In most cases, it’s easier to sell a vacant buy-to-let. However, if you do plan to sell while your tenants are in contract, you’re limiting your market to other landlords.

Be warned, selling while tenanted will mean more admin. You’ll need to provide the tenancy agreement, gas safety certificates, and other associated rental documents. You’ll also need to arrange for the tenancy deposit to be transferred to the new landlord.

Avoid the hassle of extra paperwork and plan your buy-to-let sale towards the end of a tenant’s contract. Provide the appropriate notice to your tenants indicating that you intend to sell the property. Currently, this gives them six months to find a new home and makes your sale easier.

Buy-to-let properties are subject to capital gains tax (every landlord’s least favourite few words!). Your tax bill is calculated by looking at how much the value of the property has increased since you’ve owned it. So, if you bought a rental for £100,000 and it’s now worth £150,000, you’ll be liable for CGT on the £50,000 (less allowable expenses).

Make sure you speak to an accountant to understand what expenses can be offset and your personal tax rate.

If you took out a long-term fixed rate buy-to-let mortgage, you may need to prepare for a hefty early repayment charge once the property sells.

Speak to us at Scottish Property Centre if you’re thinking about selling a buy-to-let.