Off-Plan Property Investment
As rental demand continues to grow across the UK and the supply of rental property continues to dwindle, an increasing number of investors are choosing to invest in off-plan properties in some of the UK’s most popular rental markets. Below you can find a handy guide that explains the basics of off-plan property investment in the UK.
What is Off-Plan Property Investment?
Off-plan property investment involves purchasing a property while it’s still under construction or in the planning stage, based on location, CGI visuals, and floorplans. This could include new-builds, refurbished developments, or properties not yet ready for tenants. Increasingly popular among UK investors, off-plan opportunities offer strong capital growth potential and attractive rental yields.
Unlike off-market sales, which are handled privately by developers, off-plan properties are widely advertised through agents and platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla. They’re typically priced below completed homes, offering investors a more affordable entry point and higher potential returns.
In 2025, with the UK rental market facing a persistent supply shortage and demand continuing to surge, off-plan properties are particularly appealing to tenants seeking modern, low-maintenance homes in desirable areas. This creates a compelling opportunity for investors looking to secure high-demand rental assets.
Current property investment opportunities
Hutton Avenue
Price from
£130,000
Property type
Assisted Living
Location
Hartlepool
Investment Highlight
Moor Vale
Price from
£130,000
Property type
Assisted Living
Location
Keighley
Investment Highlight
Chaucers Walk
Price from
£144,440
Property type
Assisted Living
Location
Blackburn
Investment Highlight
Vivere Residences
Price from
£240,000
Property type
Residential
Location
Manchester
Investment Highlight
Ashworth House
Price from
£159,000
Property type
Assisted Living
Location
Burnley
Investment Highlight
Humphry Davy House
Price from
£182,000
Property type
Assisted Living
Location
Mexborough
Investment Highlight
UK rents grew by 5.2% in 2024, with further growth expected in 2025
Rental demand in urban centres increased by 21% year-on-year as of Q1 2025
House prices are forecasted to grow by 7.5% between 2025 and 2029
Rental values are expected to rise by 4.5% in 2025
Off-Plan Property Investment in 4 Steps
Step 1 – Research: When buying off-plan properties, the first thing you should do is extensive research. Like with traditional property investment, you need to research areas, the performance of the property market and how you will go about financing your property, as well as what is involved in buying a property off-plan.
Step 2- Choosing a property: When you have researched everything you need to know, it’s time to start your property search! It’s best to choose an agent that specialises in off-plan property investment as they can advise you and be on hand to help you throughout the sale process. Once you have chosen a property, you will need to put down a deposit to secure it.
Step 3 – Appointing a solicitor: Once you have secured your property, you will need to instruct a solicitor to carry out the conveyancing and raise any enquiries on your behalf. The developer’s solicitor will also provide you with a contract pack. Once satisfied, you will need to sign the contract and pay your exchange fees. Once you have exchanged, your purchase is legally binding.
Step 4 – Completion: Once your property is structurally complete, your solicitor will be issued a completion notice. At this point, you will then have 10 working days to pay the remaining charges on the property. Your solicitors will also carry out any final legal work, such as searches and final reviews of documents. Once these are all signed, your purchase will officially be completed!
Get Your Off-Plan Property Investment Journey Started Today
What Are the Benefits of Off-Plan Property Investment?
Lower Entry Prices
Off-plan properties are usually priced below market value, offering a lower initial investment and better long-term yields.
High Tenant Appeal
New build properties attract more interest from tenants, especially in today’s competitive rental market. Tenants are often willing to pay a premium for modern, low-maintenance homes in attractive locations.
Flexible Customisation
Off-plan investments allow buyers to choose units based on personal preferences, such as floor level, layout, or view, helping maximise rental potential.
Energy Efficiency
New builds comply with modern energy regulations and often feature sustainable technologies. Tenants appreciate lower energy bills, and investors benefit from higher rent and occupancy rates.
How Popular is Off-Plan Property Investment in 2025?
Off-plan investment remains one of the most popular strategies for property investors in the UK. According to recent data from industry sources, a growing percentage of new homes in major cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool are being sold off-plan. In fact, many developments in these areas see over 60% of units reserved before construction is complete.
The post-pandemic shift back to urban living and flexible work patterns has revitalised city-centre demand. Young professionals and students in particular are driving the trend for high-spec, well-located rental properties, making off-plan investments especially attractive.
What Our Clients Have to Say
Don’t just take our word for it…
Trustpilot Review
Maria
Trustpilot Review
Hilmar Bosch
Trustpilot Review
Paul Dike
Google Review
Imran Al Akhzami
Trustpilot Review
Keith and Kimberley Loder
Google Review
Jakub Kreczetowski
Off-Plan Property Investment FAQs
Is Off-Plan Property Investment a good choice?
Off-plan property investment remains a highly popular and resilient strategy in 2025, driven by strong rental demand, limited housing supply, and the continued appeal of modern, energy-efficient homes.
The UK rental market has seen consistent growth over the past few years, with average rents surpassing £1,150 per month in many regions and urban demand remaining especially strong. Recent figures show that over 40% of new homes in England and Wales are now sold before completion, with key cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool consistently reporting off-plan sales above 60%.
This trend reflects ongoing confidence among investors who recognise the value of securing high-demand units early in the development cycle. As flexible work arrangements continue and more professionals return to city living, off-plan properties in well-connected, central locations are increasingly sought after. For investors, this means excellent potential for capital appreciation, steady rental income, and long-term growth in a competitive market.
What are the risks of investing in off-plan property?
As with any investment, there are risks involved, such as construction delays or changes in market conditions. However, working with reputable developers, reviewing contracts carefully, and having a clear understanding of payment structures can help minimise these risks.
When do I start earning rental income from an off-plan investment?
You’ll begin earning rental income once the property is completed and tenanted. This usually happens shortly after the final handover, assuming you’ve marketed the property and secured tenants in advance through a letting agent.
Are you interested in off-plan property investment? Get in touch today!
By entering your details you consent to be contacted by Knight Knox for marketing opportunities.
