Developer's buy-to-let pledge

A housing developer has said its latest scheme in Lichfield will offer buy-to-let investors a safe haven through troubled times for the industry.

Leading housebuilder George Wimpey has pledged to make it easier for would-be landlords to enter the buy-to-let market by guaranteeing a gross rental yield of six per cent of the purchase price for the first four years.

Buy-to-let investors who purchase a new home at Marble Court in Lichfield can guarantee a return on their purchase until 2012 through the Simple New scheme.

George Wimpey's approved letting agents will make life even easier for new landlords by finding a tenant for them and they'll still receive monthly rental payments even if their property is empty. The scheme is available to those reserving an investment property at Marble Court before April 30 but only 12 homes remain at the 28-home site.

Pam Bourne, George Wimpey sales and marketing director, said: "This is a really straight-forward scheme which allows buyers to enter the buy-to-let market safe in the knowledge that they will receive a minimum six per cent return until at least 2012.

"Reports suggest that the rental market in the UK remains buoyant and we're certainly still receiving a great deal of interest from both seasoned investors and those looking to become landlords for the first time.

"Our homes are modern, well designed, low maintenance and cost-effective to run, making them ideal rental properties.

"The guaranteed rental offer is just another example of our tailor-made schemes that offer real practical and financial advice, making it easier for our buyers to purchase the right property for them."

Investors can choose from two-bedroom apartments priced from £159,995, and three-bedroom houses from £229,995.

The two-bedroom Loft apartment is an ideal investment, boasting all the benefits of practical design combined with the essentials for tenants. The home features an open plan living/dining room, a kitchen, two bedrooms and a family bathroom. The accommodation is accessed from a separate hallway, located up the stairs from the entrance lobby and a single garage.

Like all new homes at the development, the loft enjoys a high standard specification including gas central heating, double glazing and a fitted kitchen with built-in oven, hob and hood.

Marble Court is ideally located within walking distance of a wide choice of independent and high street stores, leisure amenities, health facilities, schools and nurseries, and Lichfield railway station.

For more information visit the sales centre located off Shortbutts Lane, Lichfield which is open Thursday to Monday from 11am to 5pm. The sales executive can be contacted on 08450 263 816.