How to Buy an HMO in an Article 4 area!

You have found the perfect property and the numbers stack up to make it an exciting HMO investment. Then you find out the address is situated bang on in article 4 direction! Nightmare! But, you can do it! 

Here’s are some important considerations we recommend before you invest in HMOs in Article 4 areas:

🏠 Look for comparable’s

Access planning records to look if someone has done anything similar in the area. You find this on the Local Authorities website and what the final decision was. 

🏠 Proof of attempted sale 

The council will want to see that you or the landlord have previously attempted to sell the property for example, as a family home or single let without any success. If you have previously marketed the property as a family home prior to considering converting to an HMO, this may have a positive impact on your application. 

🏠 Do a pre-planning application 

A pre planning application should give you a good insight on the likelihood of your application being accepted.

🏠 Buy an existing HMO property

An existing HMO in an Article 4 area that doesn’t need a change of class is fine to operate as it is.

 🏠Speak to a local planning consultant 

Local planning consultants will often have knowledge which is beyond what you will find on the Councils websites. They will be able to share useful tips on getting a successful up application.

🏠 Check the councils HMO Density List

You will be able to contact most councils for their published HMO density list. The councils HMO density list details the threshold for HMOs in the area in an effort to keep the overall percentage down.

The easiest way to find C3 to C4 Article 4 Directions is by using the Article 4 Maps App using the link below ⬇️

https://article4map.com