Renting / Letting your UK home from South Africa
#1
Banned
Thread Starter
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 5
Renting / Letting your UK home from South Africa
Hi everyone,
I see a lot of posts about expats selling their UK homes when they relocate to countries like Australia - but I'm assuming not all of us would if we are relocating to Africa. I have a home in Greater London/Kent and don't want to sell. Has anyone reading this kept their home in the UK while living in Africa and are renting/letting it out?
I would love to hear from people who are doing this and where your property is. Is it difficult? What should I beware of? Is there a particular problem you have had that I should be aware of? Any hints/tips/suggestions are appreciated.
Darren
I see a lot of posts about expats selling their UK homes when they relocate to countries like Australia - but I'm assuming not all of us would if we are relocating to Africa. I have a home in Greater London/Kent and don't want to sell. Has anyone reading this kept their home in the UK while living in Africa and are renting/letting it out?
I would love to hear from people who are doing this and where your property is. Is it difficult? What should I beware of? Is there a particular problem you have had that I should be aware of? Any hints/tips/suggestions are appreciated.
Darren
#2
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 508
Re: Renting / Letting your UK home from South Africa
I used to know one couple who did this, but it was quite a few years ago and I've lost touch with them. Their situation was slightly different though, because the wife returned to the UK every year, and stayed in the house for a few months.
I agree with keeping your house. SA property prices are incredibly cheap for anyone with GBP, because of the exchange rate, but that works against you if you go back. UK prices are rising rapidly, and I could see some people finding themselves unable to buy back in unless they have a high income and/or substantial savings there.
I'm sure someone will offer practical advice about renting out your house. The usual caveats about due diligence on prospective tenants, a clearly written lease, provision for repairs/maintenance, and the costs if you appoint an agency or law firm to act for you are going to apply. Do you have family who could take this on?
I agree with keeping your house. SA property prices are incredibly cheap for anyone with GBP, because of the exchange rate, but that works against you if you go back. UK prices are rising rapidly, and I could see some people finding themselves unable to buy back in unless they have a high income and/or substantial savings there.
I'm sure someone will offer practical advice about renting out your house. The usual caveats about due diligence on prospective tenants, a clearly written lease, provision for repairs/maintenance, and the costs if you appoint an agency or law firm to act for you are going to apply. Do you have family who could take this on?
#3
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,881
Re: Renting / Letting your UK home from South Africa
Hi everyone,
I see a lot of posts about expats selling their UK homes when they relocate to countries like Australia - but I'm assuming not all of us would if we are relocating to Africa. I have a home in Greater London/Kent and don't want to sell. Has anyone reading this kept their home in the UK while living in Africa and are renting/letting it out?
I would love to hear from people who are doing this and where your property is. Is it difficult? What should I beware of? Is there a particular problem you have had that I should be aware of? Any hints/tips/suggestions are appreciated.
Darren
I see a lot of posts about expats selling their UK homes when they relocate to countries like Australia - but I'm assuming not all of us would if we are relocating to Africa. I have a home in Greater London/Kent and don't want to sell. Has anyone reading this kept their home in the UK while living in Africa and are renting/letting it out?
I would love to hear from people who are doing this and where your property is. Is it difficult? What should I beware of? Is there a particular problem you have had that I should be aware of? Any hints/tips/suggestions are appreciated.
Darren