Year of the yield

If 2018 had a theme for property investors, it might be “uncertainty”. This year landlords are likely to be in for more regulatory change and increased costs.

But the softening of the market means savvy investors are already looking for potential opportunities, maximising their current portfolio and expecting rents to rise.

In January’s issue of NZ Property Investor magazine, we speak to industry experts and experienced property investors about what they are expecting in 2018.

We get their insights into local markets, broader trends and what they’re planning to do with their portfolios in the year ahead.

Some of the issues covered are the economic climate, the likely direction of interest rates, looming legislative changes, value projections and the rental market.

While our commentators are unanimous in the belief that rents are only going one way – which is up, not down – they are split into two camps on how to invest this year.

Some plan to buy as the flatter market has the potential to provide more opportunities and potential bargains, but others plan to spend money on their existing rentals to improve the yield.

Marlborough investor Brian Kerr says he is getting his properties into tip-top condition this year.

“We’re getting them absolutely perfect and we’re going to get top-of-the-market rent. I think the number of rentals is going to reduce and the spotlight is going to be on the other rentals.

“Tenants are going to have a go at landlords – more than they’ve ever had a go – on properties not being up to scratch.”

He is going about things quietly with his eyes open, as no-one knows what’s going to happen with interest rates or on the international economic scene, he says.

“But I still think property investment is a great industry to be in and I’ll remain in it until the writing is clearly on the wall.”

To read the full details of the experts’ forecasts for 2018, click here to get the digital issue of NZ Property Investor magazine.

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