Is it Worth Buying Houses in Need of Renovation for Sale?

Sales

Posted in Jan 06 , 2025

If you are going to buy your first house or are just exploring new areas for property investment at the moment, one question always comes to mind: Is it worth buying houses in need of renovation ? You may wonder why these properties, as they will require a lot of work and effort to reshape. But if you look at the bigger picture, these properties offer opportunities that could be game-changers for the London housing market. How? We have covered everything in detail to explore the benefits, challenges, and ways to purchase renovated homes. It’s worth the read!

The Benefits of Buying Houses in Need of Renovation

Let’s start with some of the major advantages of investing in houses for sale that need renovation.

1. Lower Initial Costs

The biggest upside is that these houses are relatively lower priced than normal houses in the market. Most of the time, these properties are not valued for their condition, giving landlords a good opportunity to invest and create ROI.

2. Potential to Customise

If a landlord wishes to reshape the property, buying a renovated one offers the best opportunity to customise as needed. They can build their own modern rented unit for multiple families or make it specific for a single large family. The freedom to design based on the market requirements is always there.

3. Get the Best Return on Investment (ROI)

Buying, reshaping, and selling the renovated property is always profitable work. The condition and features you install will also maximise the value and income potential it will gain in the market whilst generating ROI. Let’s take an example: If a house was bought in Mitcham for about £450,000, then after the post-renovation, the value of the property should increase above £600,000, depending partially on the quality and the improvements made in the remodelled home.

4. Demand for High Quality Areas

Areas like Wimbledon, Morden, Colliers Wood and Mitcham always rise in price, and the demand for high-quality property here is a dream. Suppose landlords purchase a renovated property in such areas. In that case, they can build it as per the preference of tenants, which may include a low-energy consumption home with the finest quality interiors. This strategy works in London for people who question whether it is worth buying houses that need renovation for sale.

The Challenges of Buying and Renovating Houses

Whilst the benefits of buying are appealing, the landlords must also consider some of the challenges that can arise when you purchase. Here are some points to help you evaluate the challenges you anticipate during the process.

1. The Condition of Property

The renovated houses are different when it comes to condition. You can expect very basic updates to a major area repair required. Conducting a thorough survey from a renowned estate agent like Cribs Estates is important to ensure any potential area damage or dampness in the plumbing structure.

2. The Cost of Renovation

Let’s discuss the most crucial factor in this process: the budget. It can go towards the sky anytime due to an unforeseen repair. To give you an example, the cost of giving an upgrade to a kitchen may be somewhere between £9,000-£10,000, and to go for a complete house refurbishment will cost around £70,000 as per the size and scope of the property and timeframe needed.

3. Planning Permissions

In some cases planning permission is needed before the start of renovation, especially in places like conversations or listed buildings. Landlords are responsible for determining the local council's regulations and timelines for completing the project.

4. Government Regulations Compliance

As per the government, the properties listed for renovation must follow strict rules written to meet the finest standards. These include:

Properties must meet a minimum EPC rating of “E.”
Structural changes must comply with all defined safety standards.
Quick-fire alarms with escape routes for rental properties must be installed in case of any HMO properties
Gas safety regulations
Get the latest updates for EICR reports for electricity
PAT testing in case of HMO’s

5. The Time and Effort Needed

As a landlord, you must invest much time and effort caring for various aspects of the renovated house. We are discussing managing contracts, materials, project completion milestones and deadlines, and the budget.

How Cribs Estates Help Landlords?

Cribs Estates Ltd has been in the market for more then 15 years and specialises in managing the landlords investments in this UK property property market. We are experts in locating all the houses that need renovation and can be bought easily. Here’s why we are the most trustworthy and transparent in our work:

1. Property Listings As Per Budget

We have the most broad list of properties available for your review in the most popular areas, like Wimbledon and Mitcham. Our experts identify the most appealing properties that fit your budget and goals. Whether you require a family home, a small-level upgrade, or a large-level refurbishment, our team is ready to help.

2. Real Market Insights

To win the best deal, you need to have the latest information in the market. Cribs Estates has all the local listings and insights to help landlords make informed decisions, like knowing the maximum rental returns on the houses brought from renovation sales. Also, we have a complete comparison list of all the areas to ensure your investment is never on the losing side.

3. Free Property Valuations

Experience instant free online valuations of your property. Just fill out the form on the website and get the fastest free valuation for your renovated house. We have the most reliable factors to determine the cost and even the potential to upgrade that will affect the market value of your property.

4. Regulations and Planning Assistance

Getting permissions and compliance is always daunting if you don’t have a team beside you. Cribs Estates will always make sure your renovated house meets the criteria set by the local council and government.

5. End-to-End Property Management

From the listing, renter screening, repair and maintenance, and rent collection, we are your trusted partners for peace of mind.

Is It Worth It? The Verdict

Is it Worth Buying Houses in Need of Renovation for Sale? Yes! Buying these homes is worth the investment, considering their potential for greater ROI. You will need to partner up with Cribs Estates to ensure the smooth operation of your property.

Shared on social media

Comments

Latest Blogs

Eviction Service for Landlords

If you're a landlord, you'll probably agree that evicting a tenant is never easy. Still, it sometimes becomes necessary for the protection of the property or other valid reasons. Whether the issue is pending rent arrears or property damage, or even a breach in the tenancy agreement, going around the eviction road can be a stressful job. That is why professional eviction service for landlords is on the rise in London.In the UK, the eviction process requires a deep understanding of legal procedures, notice periods, and compliance with laws. For landlords facing a similar issue, here’s a blog that can save them time and legal headaches. When is an eviction service needed?It’s a highly complex question, but landlords often try to resolve their issues by directly talking to tenants. When this fails, especially in cases where rent arrears are pending or behavioral issues are present, eviction becomes practical. In England, landlords must follow legal compliance, so they cannot simply ask tenants to evict without a valid reason. In the event of a wrong notice or failure to follow the legal process, landlords may face court proceedings, penalties, or the court rejecting the eviction notice. This is why landlords hire eviction services to handle this issue professionally. What does an eviction service for Landlords do?The eviction service handles the entire legal process of evicting tenants legally and returning possession to the landlords. These services may include:Drafting the eviction notices and serving them legally under sections 8 and 21. Making sure the notices comply with legal laws.Attaching all court applications in case of any legal possession.Arranging court bailiffs or High Court officers if they are needed. Assisting landlords with their rights to avoid any hefty fines. Some services also provide legal representation in court, keeping you informed at every stage of the process.Section 21 vs Section 8: What’s the difference?A good eviction service will advise you on whether a Section 21 or Section 8 notice is appropriate.Section 21 is often used for ‘no fault’ evictions — for example, if a landlord simply wants their property back after the fixed term of the tenancy has ended. However, there are strict requirements, such as having provided a valid Energy Performance Certificate, Gas Safety Certificate, and a copy of the How to Rent guide.Section 8 is used when a tenant has broken the terms of their tenancy agreement — usually due to rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or property damage. The notice must specify the grounds for eviction and include relevant evidence.Choosing the wrong route or failing to meet these requirements can cause delays or invalidation, which is why an expert service is so valuable.Eviction timeframes and delaysThe eviction process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the circumstances and how cooperative the tenant is. If the tenant leaves voluntarily after receiving a notice, the process is fairly straightforward.However, if the tenant refuses to leave, landlords may need to apply for a possession order from the court. In some cases, enforcement action via court bailiffs or High Court officers may be necessary, which adds further time and cost.An experienced eviction service helps avoid unnecessary delays by ensuring every step is done correctly and efficiently. They know how to prepare and present the case in a way that aligns with current legal expectations.Cost of eviction service for Landlords in the UKCosts vary depending on the level of support required. A simple notice service might cost under £200, whilst full court representation and bailiff involvement can rise to £1,000 or more.Some providers offer fixed-fee packages that include the entire process from notice to possession, which gives landlords clarity and peace of mind. Considering the potential cost of rent loss, property damage, or legal errors, professional services are often well worth the investment.Can landlords evict tenants themselves?Technically, landlords can serve notices and apply to court themselves. However, the law is complex and always changing. Mistakes are common and can cost time, money, and credibility in court.For example, serving a Section 21 notice without having protected the tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme makes the notice invalid. Similarly, issuing a notice without correct dates or documentation often leads to failure in court.A professional eviction service ensures that every legal requirement is met, reducing stress for landlords and ensuring the best chance of a successful outcome.How Cribs Estates Can HelpAt Cribs Estates, we understand how challenging and sensitive the eviction process can be. Our experienced team provides reliable, legally compliant eviction services for landlords across London and beyond.We’ll guide you through every stage, from serving the correct notice to court representation and enforcement, all whilst keeping your property and interests protected. Whether you're dealing with rent arrears, tenancy breaches, or simply need your property back, we offer fast, effective, and discreet solutions tailored to your situation.Let our professionals handle the legalities, so you can focus on what matters most — maintaining a successful property investment. Get in touch with Cribs Estates today for expert eviction support and peace of mind.

Landlord Gas Safety Certificate and Boiler Service

Being a landlord and living in the UK comes with many responsibilities, the most important of which is gas safety. When you have a rental property that has appliances running, it is required to have a Gas Safety Certificate legally, and not just as an option. Add boiler service to this to ensure the safety of your tenants and the property. To take a close look at what landlord gas safety certificate and boiler service is, and what the things are if you want to avoid getting into trouble, it is recommended to read the blog in detail. What Is a Landlord's Gas Safety Certificate?The certificate, also known as the CP12, is an official record that confirms all the gas appliances, fittings, and flues have been inspected by the Gas Safe authorities and considered safe for use. It is also a legal requirement described in the law stated in the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. The certificate must be renewed every 12 months, and a copy must be given to the tenants within 28 days of the inspection. When the new tenants move in, they should already have a copy before they start living. The certificate covers the following:1. Gas appliances like boilers, cookers, and fires. 2. All kinds of ventilation routes and chimneys.3. Gas pipework and connections.4. Operations pressure and all kinds of safety devices. Do I Need a Boiler Service Too?Boiler service is always recommended because it differs from a gas safety check. With the boiler service, you get a more detailed inspection of the components and the overall performance. Whilst gas and safety checks inform you about safety, the overall service will ensure everything works fine. When the service starts, the engineer will start cleaning the internal parts, check for the signs of wear, inspect the pressure levels, and look for any faults. Manufacturers recommend that the boiler be serviced annually, and often the warranty of the boilers becomes invalid if they are not serviced annually, leaving you to pay for more in the long run.Are Both Legally Required?Landlords are legally required to get a Gas Safety Certificate every year; there are no exceptions. In contrast, the boiler service is not legally required, but it is a good practice, and its failure can lead to leaks, breakdowns, and other issues that will lead to paying more in repairs. Who Can Issue a Gas Safety Certificate?Only an engineer registered as a Gas Safety person can inspect and issue a certificate. Landlords can check the qualifications by searching for their Gas Safe ID number on the official website. Using a person who is not properly trained and certified is not legal, so you should not be allowed to check and give suggestions. Apart from this issue, you will be putting tenants' lives at risk, facing huge fines and even jail time for any accident that may occur at any stage. How Much Does It Cost?The cost of a Gas Safety Certificate typically ranges from £60 to £90, depending on your location and how many appliances need checking.A standard boiler service can cost between £70 and £120, though some engineers offer a combined deal for both services, which could save you money. If you manage multiple properties, you might also be able to negotiate a discounted rate for bulk inspections.Remember: going for the cheapest option isn’t always wise. Make sure the engineer is reputable and that their inspection is thorough. Cutting corners when it comes to gas safety is never worth the risk.What Happens If I Don’t Get One?Failing to provide a valid Gas Safety Certificate is a serious offence. Local authorities can impose unlimited fines, and in extreme cases where tenant safety has been compromised, you could face imprisonment.It can also have major implications on eviction proceedings. Under Section 21 of the Housing Act, you must have provided your tenants with a valid Gas Safety Certificate at the start of the tenancy. If you didn’t, it could prevent you from legally regaining possession of your property.Insurance companies may also reject claims if your property wasn’t properly maintained, leaving you to foot the bill for any gas-related incidents.Why It Pays to Stay ProactiveHaving both your Gas Safety Certificate and boiler service done together is the smart way to stay compliant and save money. Booking both at the same time means fewer visits, reduced admin, and often a lower combined price.Proactive landlords not only meet legal standards, but they also gain the trust and satisfaction of their tenants. A well-maintained heating system reduces emergency callouts, helps retain tenants longer, and avoids last-minute panic during winter breakdowns.How Cribs Estates Can HelpAt Cribs Estates, we make gas safety compliance hassle-free for landlords. We partner with trusted Gas Safe engineers to ensure your properties are inspected promptly and thoroughly. Whether you need a single certificate or annual services across a portfolio, we handle all the coordination, from scheduling to paperwork.Our team also arranges regular boiler servicing to keep your heating system in top condition, helping you avoid expensive repairs and keeping tenants warm all year round.Let us take care of your landlord responsibilities whilst you focus on growing your rental income. Get in touch with Cribs Estates today to book your Gas Safety Certificate and boiler service with complete peace of mind.

How Much do Letting Agents Charge Landlords

Landlords considering letting a property in the UK know that the process can be rewarding but demanding. The most common way landlords handle multiple properties outside their living areas is by hiring reliable and cost-effective letting agents. If you’re thinking about managing your properties but don’t know how much letting agents charge landlords, and what you're paying them for, here’s a brief breakdown of how the fees are calculated and whether it’s worth the investment. The Standard Fee Structure: What to ExpectThe fee structure in the UK depends on the list of services provided, which is why most companies offer 3-tier services: finding tenants, collecting rent, and managing the entire property. Each service has a different price structure and responsibilities. If we talk about finding tenants only service, companies charge around 75% to complete 100% of one month's rent, along with added VAT. The services included in this tier include marketing the property, handling viewings, background checks of the tenants, and drafting tenancy agreements. Next comes the rent collection service, where the estate agents collect the rent on your behalf and even chase the arrears if needed. This service will cost landlords around 5%-10% of monthly rent, with additions that include tenant finding fees. For landlords who opt for complete managed services, the most viable option is an estate agent who charges between 10% and 15% of their monthly rent. The services include every aspect, ranging from property maintenance and inspection to handling the queries of tenants, checking local council compliance, and any emergencies.Location MattersLike the property prices, the fees of letting agents can also vary as per the location. For example, in London and other areas with high demand, agents charge higher to manage a full service and push to go ahead 15%, depending on how premium the the property is and what management is required there.Whereas, the landlords living in the small areas will the rates of agents to be more cost-effective. But, you need to remember that cheap rate does not mean a better service so it’s important to do the homework about your expectations before thinking about the cost and going for a cheap option. Are the Fees Regulated?As per the official Tenant Fees Act 2019, the letting agents were banned to take fees from tenants, however, they are allowed to charge landlords. Agents can set their own pricing as per tier-services provided so it becomes necessary to comapre the services with other agencies before hiring and signing the agreement. It is required for letting agents to be a part of a redress scheme like Property Ombudsman or the Property Redress Scheme. Majority of the estate agents are already a part of bodies like ARLA Propertymark that has a list of code to conducts to follow and encourage to have transparency. Can You Negotiate?Yes, letting agent fees are not set in stone. Especially in areas with plenty of competition, many agents are open to negotiation. If you have multiple properties or intend to be a long-term client, you may be able to secure a reduced rate.It’s always worth asking for a discount or requesting that certain extras be included in the base fee. But do so carefully, choosing an agent solely because they’re the cheapest may backfire if the service turns out to be poor.Is It Worth Paying for a Letting Agent?This ultimately comes down to your experience, availability, and how hands-on you want to be. If you’re a new landlord or live far from your rental property, a letting agent can provide peace of mind and ensure you remain compliant with ever-changing regulations.Full management may seem costly, but for landlords who value time and stress-free income, it can be well worth the expense. On the other hand, if you’re confident in handling tenant queries, legal paperwork, and maintenance issues yourself, a tenant-find only service might suffice.How Cribs Estates Can HelpAt Cribs Estates, we understand that every landlord has different needs. Whether you own one property or a growing portfolio, our letting services are designed to make the process smooth, compliant, and profitable. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and our experienced team handles everything from finding the right tenant to managing day-to-day maintenance and ensuring legal compliance.Located in the heart of London, we know the local rental market inside out. Our dedicated lettings experts provide personalised advice, regular updates, and access to trusted contractors, so you can rest easy knowing your property is in safe hands.

Who Pays Service Charge: Landlord or Tenant?

Whenever you need to rent a property in the UK as a tenant or a landlord, there is always a common question that circles in your head: who pays service charge landlord or tenant? There is an increase in the number of flats and properties on lease within the country, especially in major cities like London, so it is important to know the exact service charges that both parties will bear. Such charges keep changing, creating confusion in minds, so the best way is to define every term in the tenancy or the lease agreement. Here’s a brief about what exactly this is about:What Is a Service Charge?As the name suggests, landlords collect a fee to cover all the costs of maintaining the services of the property or the building. It includes all cleaning of staircases, and the maintenance of lifts, security, gardening, and other basic services, such as heating and lighting. For the flats, the service charges may also mean the insurance of building and management fees or other repair funds. However, it may need to be figured out by both parties as to who will be responsible for the charge: the landlord or the tenant? Does the Landlord or Tenant Pay?It all comes down to the type of tenancy agreement you have. When discussing leasehold property, the agents charge the landlords or leaseholders for the services. In many cases, the landlords pass these service costs to the tenants. As per the Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST), if the agreement already specifies that tenants are responsible for charges, they are legally bound to do so; however, if it’s not specified, landlords will have to cover all the service charges themselves. Is the Service Charge Included in the Rent?Oftentimes, we have seen the landlords add these service charges within the monthly rent so that tenants don’t feel they are giving anything extra other than rent. This approach is very common in single-let family properties, but landlords take service charges separately in larger living places like blocks or flats. Due to the nature of work in the building, the tenants get a breakdown of the invoices that reveals the charges. If you are a tenant, you should ask upfront whether the service charges are included in the rent. If they are not, you should get a clear idea of the expected cost and what it will cover. Understanding the Tenant's RightsUnder the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, tenants can request a written account summary and even inspect the documents to determine whether the charges are accurate. For example, if a tenant pays £ 130 in monthly charges, they are entitled to know where every penny is spent, whether on cleaning, gardening, maintenance, or lift repair. Disputes or trust issues can be avoided if landlords are transparent about these charges. What About Variable Service Charges?Variable service charges are another essential aspect, as they change yearly depending on costs. Tenants will pay higher charges with each passing year unless a fixed rate is decided at the start of the agreement. Landlords must highlight this aspect in the agreement to avoid misunderstandings, as not explaining it could raise questions in the tenant's mind. Disputes and MisunderstandingsWhen the tenants feel like they are not getting the quality of services against the monthly charges they pay, for example, if the lift of the building is frequently out of service or the cleaning is not regularly done, the tenants start to question the service charges and the work done against them. When such cases happen, the landlords or the estate agents working on their behalf act quickly to resolve the communication gap and any problems to avoid legal complaints or court proceedings. Who Pays Service Charge Landlord or Tenant? The Clear Answer!Coming back to our actual question, the answer is always the tenancy agreement. If the agreement states that it will be the tenants' responsibility, they must pay. If it’s the other way around, landlords must cover the expenses. It also highlights how important a well-written agreement is and how the expectations should be decided for both parties. Still, some landlords add service charges to the rent to simplify matters and keep the property appealing to new tenants. Others, with more detailed amenities, take a separate approach to service charges. How Cribs Estates Can Help?Cribs Estate specialises in understanding and acceptably managing the service charges to tenants and landlords. We offer a complete property management service that handles all the aspects for you, including tenant questions, communication, and handling the management work that needs to be done in the building, whilst informing both parties about tasks completed.The professional support we offer landlords will help them avoid mistakes whilst allowing them to focus on growing their portfolios. Whether new to the property rental market or already invested in properties, Cribs Estates is always ready to make their processes simple and stress-free whilst giving them peace of mind.

Property search

Residential Lettings

Residential Sales

HMO

Commercial Sales Commercial Lettings

Price

Min price

Max price

Number of Bedrooms

Min bedrooms

Max bedrooms

Find properties