“Buy to let”: a popular investment?

Abstract

Purpose

The UK “buy to let” property market is significant with over 1,024,300 “buy to let” mortgages outstanding between 1996 and 2007. This paper investigates whether the factors that encourage male and female individuals to invest in the “buy to let” property market are similar or different.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is conducted through a quantitative study which examines whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages for landlords investing in the “buy to let” housing market and if these issues are perceived to be the same by male and female landlords. Through a literature review the research author critically evaluates books, papers and legislation to establish the current background information which exists on the “buy to let” market. The primary research contained within this paper is conducted through a survey questionnaire distributed to 100 landlords attending private sector landlord forums.

Findings

This paper recognises that overall male and female landlords have differing approaches to their investment decisions within the “buy to let” sector.

Originality/value

This paper establishes new learning relating to gender expectations regarding “buy to let” investments.

Citation

Mellish, P. and Rhoden, M. (2009), "“Buy to let”: a popular investment?", Property Management, Vol. 27 No. 3, pp. 178-190. https://doi.org/10.1108/02637470910964660