Are you seeking a lucrative buy-to-let investment in London? It’s a quest many embark upon, yet the challenge lies in pinpointing the areas that promise substantial rental yields amidst the city’s diverse landscape. With London’s soaring property prices and fluctuating market trends, making a savvy investment choice requires insight and data-driven analysis.
Assessing London’s Investment Potential
London’s property market has undergone an unparalleled surge in the past decade, with the UK House Price Index showcasing a remarkable increase in average house prices from £311,364 to £535,789 (January 2013 to January 2023). While indicative of a thriving market, this substantial uptrend presents a conundrum for potential investors. The escalating property prices create a barrier, particularly concerning buy-to-let mortgages, where the hefty deposit requirements frequently surpass the budget constraints of many aspiring investors.
Data-Driven Insight
Uncovering the prime areas for profitable buy-to-let investments requires a meticulous and data-driven strategy in light of these market dynamics. Employing a comprehensive analysis, we’ve meticulously differentiated each London postcode district based on two pivotal metrics: rental yield and five-year price growth.
These objective metrics offer a crystal-clear view of the potential returns and forecast future market trends, empowering investors to make informed and strategic decisions in this vibrant and dynamic real estate landscape:
Postcode |
Area |
Avg. Asking Price |
Avg. Rental Price |
Avg. Yield |
Five-year Growth Plan |
E9 |
Hackney, Homerton |
£509,531 |
£2,281 |
5.40% |
20% |
E6 |
East Ham |
£432,850 |
£1,948 |
5.40% |
18% |
SE28 |
Thamesmead |
£331,477 |
£1,678 |
6.10% |
12% |
E13 |
Plaistow, Upton Park |
£405,851 |
£1,923 |
5.70% |
12% |
N18 |
Upper Edmonton |
£387,951 |
£1,725 |
5.30% |
15% |
SE2 |
Abbey Wood |
£404,245 |
£1,881 |
5.60% |
9% |
SE25 |
South Norwood |
£364,091 |
£1,513 |
5.00% |
17% |
SE14 |
New Cross, New Cross Gate |
£431,853 |
£1,789 |
5.00% |
16% |
N9 |
Lower Edmonton |
£402,802 |
£1,582 |
4.70% |
18% |
W7 |
Hanwell |
£544,155 |
£2,218 |
4.90% |
16% |
SE15 |
Peckham, Nunhead |
£502,519 |
£2,199 |
5.30% |
11% |
N15 |
Seven Sisters |
£490,045 |
£1,891 |
4.60% |
25% |
N4 |
Finsbury Park |
£594,086 |
£2,286 |
4.60% |
18% |
E15 |
Stratford, West Ham |
£439,957 |
£2,105 |
5.70% |
2% |
N7 |
Holloway |
£545,331 |
£2,421 |
5.30% |
6% |
SE9 |
Eltham, Mottingham |
£487,002 |
£1,881 |
4.60% |
17% |
NW9 |
Kinsbury, Colindale |
£458,045 |
£2,002 |
5.20% |
7% |
SE17 |
Walworth |
£542,084 |
£2,554 |
5.70% |
-1% |
E12 |
Manor Park, Little Ilford, Aldersbrook |
£450,667 |
£1,738 |
4.60% |
13% |
E3 |
Bow, Mile End |
£435,425 |
£2,180 |
6.00% |
-4% |
The data showcases the leading postcodes, with areas like Hackney, Homerton, and East Ham dominating the list. But why do these areas stand out amidst London’s vast expanse? Understanding the Top Performers: A Closer Look at the Leaders
E9 – Hackney and Homerton
E9 emerges as the pinnacle choice for buy-to-let investment, boasting a solid rental yield of 5.4% and a remarkable 20% growth in average prices over five years. The blend of traditional terraced houses and modern apartments, excellent transport links, and cultural appeal positions E9 as an investor’s dream.
E6 East Ham
Just a few miles southeast of E9 lies E6, encompassing East Ham. While slightly more affordable, E6 presents an equally enticing rental yield of 5.4% and a commendable 18% price growth over five years. Ongoing redevelopment initiatives make it a favourable choice for investors seeking affordability and potential returns.
SE28 – Thamesmead
SE28 has an impressive average rental yield of 6.1% and a respectable 12% growth in average asking prices over the last five years. This area, covering Thamesmead with extensions toward Woolwich, provides excellent links to central London, making it an attractive living or working option. Positioned by the riverside, SE28 offers residents the luxury of easy weekend escapes into Kent, a significant draw for families.
E13 – Plaistow and Upton Park
E13 boasts rental solid yields in London at 5.7% and a 12% growth in average property prices over the past five years. Embracing Plaistow and Upton Park, this East London area is adjacent to E6, signifying its potential as a burgeoning investment hub. These districts, coupled with nearby Stratford and West Ham, have experienced a resurgence, witnessing the emergence of new businesses, dining establishments, and residential developments.
N18 – Upper Edmonton
N18, covering Upper Edmonton and situated north of the Thames, offers investors a promising average rental yield of 5.3% and a commendable 15% growth in average asking prices over the last five years. Nestled between Edmonton, Walthamstow, and Tottenham, N18 presents considerable potential, especially with the ambitious Meridian Water project set to introduce 10,000 new homes. Additionally, planned redevelopment initiatives, including the £850 million Joyce Avenue and Snell’s Park projects, underpin the area’s prospects.
Unlocking London’s Buy-to-Let Potential: The Road Ahead
While London’s property market poses challenges, the above-mentioned data reveals hidden gems offering promising returns for buy-to-let investors — domestic and international. By leveraging this data-driven analysis and objective assessment, investors gain a strategic advantage in identifying high-potential areas across the capital. With 21 branches across London, our letting teams are able to accurately valuate your property to provide you with a realistic rental and with our network of contacts, we are able to keep void periods to a minimum by referring reliable tenants.
Interested in Exploring London’s Buy-to-Let Market? Contact Benham and Reeves
When delving into London’s bustling property market, navigating the complexities can be daunting. That’s where Benham and Reeves step in, offering investors and buyers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to address every facet of homeownership and investment needs.
Our spectrum of services spans the entire property lifecycle, ensuring a holistic approach — whether pre-purchase advice, identifying prime investment opportunities, furnishings and refurbishments, residential lettings, professional property management, or streamlined tax return services, our offerings cover all bases.
At Benham and Reeves, we understand the global nature of property investment. Our international offices eliminate the necessity for lengthy, long-distance calls to London. Our adept staff, well-versed in the intricacies of the London property landscape, are readily available across the world to guide clients through every stage of their London property journey.
With an intimate knowledge of London’s prime locations and residential developments, our team acts as a liaison, handling accounts and management departments on behalf of our clients. This ensures a seamless property transaction or rental process, enhancing your experience and minimizing hassle.
If you are ready to embark on a hassle-free property venture in London, partner with Benham and Reeves and let us transform your property dreams into reality.
Do reach out to our team of international property specialists here.