The HMO Sandwiching Rule: A Planning Guide
In the world of HMO sourcing, most investors live and die by the “10% Density Rule.” They check a 50m radius, see that the concentration is low, and assume planning permission for a C3 to C4 conversion is a formality. However, in 2026, local authorities are becoming increasingly surgical with their refusals. Even if an […]
What is a Good Rental Yield? Property Investment Advice 2026
When evaluating any property investment, understanding rental yield is essential. It’s one of the clearest indicators of whether a property is likely to deliver strong returns, especially in a shifting market. While location and capital appreciation play a role, rental yield offers a straightforward way to assess the income potential of a buy-to-let or HMO […]
How to Analyse an HMO Deal in 2026
A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a property rented out by three or more people who are not from the same household but share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom. They are often occupied by students, young professionals, or key workers looking for affordable shared accommodation. Investors are increasingly drawn to HMOs because: […]
Your HMO Licensing UK Questions Answered: Most Common Questions & FAQs
The UK private rented sector is dynamic, and few areas of property investment are as regulated as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Designed to protect tenants, improve housing standards, and ensure responsible property management, HMO licensing is a legal requirement that landlords must navigate carefully. However, the rules are complex, varying depending on the property’s […]
Certificate of lawful use: Going from 6 to 7 occupant HMO
For the property investors, maximising the return on existing Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) often means finding smart, legal ways to increase density. The opportunity to transition a 6-occupant HMO (Class C4) to a 7-occupant Large HMO (Sui Generis) using a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC), in our experience, presents a profitable pathway. This move can […]
What is a Lawful Development Certificate?
While many property conversions may fall under permitted development rights, there are situations where securing formal confirmation from your local planning authority is highly beneficial. This is where Lawful Development Certificates (LDCs) come into play, providing legal reassurance for property use or proposed changes. What is a Lawful Development Certificate in HMO Planning? A Lawful […]
Understanding Commercial Valuations for HMOs
A commercial HMO valuation is a vital tool for investors aiming to maximise returns from Houses in Multiple Occupation. Unlike traditional residential valuations, a commercial HMO valuation treats the property as an income-generating asset, focusing on rental income, occupancy levels, property condition, compliance with licensing and building regulations, and local market demand. Larger HMOs, typically […]
Additional HMO License Requirements + Key UK Areas with Additional Licensing
If you are a landlord in the UK, particularly one who’s interested in HMOs (House in Multiple Occupation), it’s likely that you’ve come across mandatory HMO licensing. If you have, you’ll know that this license is a legal requirement for certain types of HMOs in the UK. However, some local councils operate lesser-known additional HMO […]
Introducing: Source While You Sleep
Have you ever spent hours and hours manually scrolling on Rightmove for potential HMO properties? If you have, you’ll know just how time-consuming that can be, especially when you’re trying to juggle it with assessing planning and density constraints. If this sounds familiar, our new feature is going to be a game-changer. We’re excited to […]
New Features in HMO Checker: Relaunching July 16th 2025
What’s new in HMO Checker? We’re excited to announce a host of new features in HMO Checker – plus, we’ll be relaunching on 16th July. Our new features include new nationwide coverage, helpful HMO content, Source While Your Sleep and more! Take a read below and check out what’s new in HMO Checker. Full nationwide […]