Residential Demand
As mentioned previously, Swindon has made its way onto a few rankings, calling it one of the best places to live in the country despite its relatively low profile. It’s a popular area to live in, and this is down to the location and great amenities that residents can take advantage of.
Investors involved with Swindon typically mention the area’s quality schools (notably the Swindon Campus at Oxford Brookes University), employment potential, robust travel links, and leisure possibilities.
Swindon’s railway station can provide easy access by train to London and Bristol, and residents are also well placed for road travel thanks to the M4 motorway and the A419.
Swindon’s popularity is good news for the landlords in this area, as high demand will result in increased rental income and consistent tenancies with fewer void periods. Abundant interest in the area can also translate into good capital appreciation. Property in the area will be more sought-after, and sizable gains can be made when the time comes to sell the property.
Regeneration
Part of Swindon’s appeal is the town’s ambitious approach to improving the area for the future. It has already benefited from large regeneration projects, including some that started in the 60s, and plenty of work is currently ongoing or in the pipeline to spruce up Swindon.
Current plans include the Fleming Bus Boulevard scheme, a £33 million project to regenerate the town centre, as well as another £14 million project dedicated to improving and maintaining Swindon’s roads.
When looking for an affordable property that is likely to appreciate in value, areas with big regeneration plans can be a good prospect for investors. By purchasing the property early in the regeneration timeline, buy-to-let investors can take advantage of the lower prices before higher demand increases value later on. As the city or town becomes more attractive, there will likely also be an increase in rental demand and higher rental income.
