There are pros and cons involved in buying any type of property and it’s always important to weigh up all the issues before you part with your hard earned cash. Old build property, new build and off plan properties are three types of popular property choices and, in part three of our mini series, we’re turning our thoughts to the issue of maintenance and upkeep and how this relates to these three types of properties.

If the amount of maintenance and upkeep needed for properties are key concerns for you, then it’s definitely worth carefully thinking about what type of property you want to purchase. Newly built property and off plan properties may win over with their short term benefits of being low on maintenance and upkeep. If the properties have been built and finished well, then in theory they shouldn’t need too much maintenance to be done for a while.

Depending on their age and the overall state of the property, then there may be a tendency for older properties to be more likely to require regular maintenance and upkeep.

However, this isn’t to say that old build properties can’t be low maintenance too. If they’ve been well kept and cared for, in the long-term they may offer benefits for being sturdier than some new builds, with more substantial and thicker walls. 

If you’re not that keen on having to sort maintenance and upkeep problems on rental property out yourself, then it’s a good idea to use a letting or rental management agent. They’ll handle the full lettings process for you, including any problems that arise, and will have a list of reliable handymen to call on in times of need, which takes the hassle away from you and gives you more time to focus on the business side of property investing.

Old build versus new build and off plan property, part 1 – Cost

Old build versus new build and off plan property, part 2 – Renting