Serviced accommodation often gets attention for the higher nightly rates it can generate. On paper, the income looks much stronger than a traditional tenancy. But the full picture is more complex, and the costs can take many first-time investors by surprise.

Many sellers sign with an agent thinking they are getting the best deal, only to find themselves locked into a long contract. The typical setup looks like this: a 12-week tie-in, an inflated asking price to win your signature, and then a slow drop in price until a buyer finally appears.

Choosing a new home isn’t just about the property itself – the neighbourhood plays a huge role in your quality of life. From schools and transport links to local shops and community spirit, here’s what to look out for when deciding if an area is right for you.

Letting a property can be profitable, but there are a few costs landlords often forget. Planning for them upfront keeps your income steady and avoids nasty surprises.