This month in Property Investor News we have returned to examine the five major asset classes, with property being one of them. I am sure the keen observers amongst you will be aware of the skyrocketing price of gold over the last few years, with it currently costing more than US$5,000 per ounce! On page 12 we have analysed whether this, plus the other asset classes, could indicate the direction property is heading in.
Adam Lawrence follows this up with his own look at historic ratios on page 30, where he compares how they have changed over time and what you need to think about going forward.
We have an interview on page 16 with Karl Maughan, who has gone from starting out as a carpenter to developing bespoke homes in the East Midlands. He highlights the difficulties and experiences of developing homes in the current environment. Karl is a member of the Developers Club and we will have regular interviews with their members in future issues of PIN, so keep an eye out for those.
There are two articles this month on planning, on page 26, David Kemp looks at the new NPPF and how it can be used to ensure the highest possible development density on site, whilst on page 32 we have an article that analyses what the government’s planning reforms mean for UK development.
Lucia Piccinini has taken a look at joint ventures on page 20 and how they’re no longer the exclusive domain of large developers, but if you’re smart, JV’s can allow the average investor to unlock value that would be impossible to access alone.
Suzi Carter has analysed the sale and leaseback strategy on page 34, and how it is a surprisingly accessible strategy in UK commercial property investing, which is worth investigating.
There has been quite a bit of new legislation coming out recently, and on page 44 there is an article highlighting what you need to pay attention to before the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force on 1 May, then on page 40 we have provided an overview of the new Warm Homes Plan and what it means for investors and landlords.
On page 36 we have taken a look at the Trafford area of Manchester, where we see what is currently happening and what is planned for the future.
Jay and Piotr, on page 46, have provided an update on the auction market and how auction sales saw a significant increase in December, a period usually quiet as the market slows down for the festive period.
There are of course several more articles in this issue, including one from Ritchie Clapson, on page 24, discussing how property development should be simpler, but never easy.
