Investors: Experienced Buyer Taps Into the Benefits of Buying Off-Plan

Property investor Rachael Comerford was swift to recognise the investment potential at Hartland Village, St Edward’s landmark development near popular Fleet in Hampshire, and purchased a one and two-bedroom apartment in September 2021. The development offers a picturesque setting, convenient transport links and an array of financial advantages that come with renting out a newly-built home. 

Hampshire is one of the top counties to move to in the UK . Hart District consistently features in lists of the best places to live in the UK  and is highly sought after by families and professionals; house prices in the area rose by 14.7% in 2021 , and are up 69% over the past decade . While Rachael’s property portfolio spans the South East, Hartland Village was especially attractive as an investment opportunity because of its location and exceptional kerb appeal. 

Rachael comments: “We saw the humpback bridge over the lake at the entrance to the development and we were sold! The development is a beautiful home for its residents and a lovely place to visit. The location is also ideal for capital growth; access to London is convenient and quick, and there are plenty of employment opportunities in the local area.”
Both of Rachael’s properties are in Hartland Manor, a Georgian-inspired red brick apartment building which forms part of Lakeside, the first phase of homes to complete at Hartland Village and now a growing and thriving community. 

High rental demand is driving attractive rental yields in the area. Romans Lettings and Estate Agents estimates yields of up to 4.7% at Hartland Village, and there has been a 36% increase in rental tenancies agreed over the last 12 months at the development . Rachael’s apartments were rented quickly and are currently occupied; the one-bedroom apartment is rented for £1,150 per month and the two-bedroom apartment for £1,300 per month.

Rachael prefers newly built properties rather than second-hand homes and says: “Brand new homes are a rarity on the rental market and are really in demand. St Edward’s homes are especially popular because the specification is very impressive, and the overall finish is superb. In addition, the two-year build warranty provided by St Edward, means that if there are any issues at all, the housebuilder takes responsibility. From an investor’s perspective, rental yields are maximised while outgoings are minimal.”

Purchasing a buy-to-let property off-plan also brings its benefits. Rachael says: “The price agreed at reservation is the price we pay on completion, which means that buying off-plan allows us to take advantage of a rising market. St Edward also offered the option to stagger the deposit and balance payment when purchasing off-plan.

“Buying the properties before they were completed gave us real flexibility. We were able to select from a choice of interior colour palettes and materials; we were even able to bring in a granite worktop to the kitchens which we’d chosen ourselves, making the apartments truly bespoke. “

Rachael concludes: “Buying a St Edward home is a sound long-term investment; in our experience, it can mean that tenants will often pay more, and helps with a good sale when the time comes. The high-quality product and level of trust associated with the St Edward brand is important.”

St Edward’s vision for Hartland Village is to create an exceptional place – in design, architecture, and in the delivery of a true community. It will be home to a new primary school, shops, cafés and other facilities, and is surrounded by extensive areas of woodland interspersed with open heath creating a distinctive landscape. The Country Park features wildflower meadows, picnic areas and butterfly banks. Cycle paths, trim trails and walkways encourage active and social lifestyles, providing links across the village, the Country Park and the surrounding forests and local towns. 

The town of Fleet has a thriving business ecosystem. It is a top location for global corporations in sectors including aerospace, digital, telecoms, financial and professional services. Hartland Village is conveniently located close to Farnborough Business Park and Cody Technology Park.

Hartland Village is located just six minutes by car to Fleet station and eight minutes to Farnborough Main train station. Ideal for commuters, the Hartland Hopper station shuttle is available to book for residents, providing transfers to Farnborough Main.

To find out more about Hartland Village or to book an appointment, call 01252 378844 or find out more here.