How to value your HMO

Understanding how to accurately value your House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a crucial skill for any HMO landlord. Unlike standard single-let properties, HMOs are valued differently, and traditional appreciation benefits may not be the primary factor. This guide will walk you through the key considerations and valuation methods for your HMO investment.

Initial assessment:

Bricks and mortar vs. Commercial valuation

The first step in valuing your HMO is to determine whether it should be assessed as a standard residential property (“bricks and mortar”) or as a commercial asset. This distinction is significant as it dictates the valuation method and will likely require input from your lender.

Bricks and mortar valuation

This valuation method is typically used for HMOs that are essentially standard (C3) residential dwellings let to multiple occupants.

A surveyor will assess the property as a residential building, considering factors such as:

 

  • The overall condition of the property.
  • The size, including the number of bedrooms and total square footage.
  • Recent sale prices of comparable residential properties in the area.

Commercial valuation

A commercial valuation, while less common, can sometimes result in a higher property value. This can be advantageous for landlords seeking to release more capital or achieve a better Loan to Value (LTV) ratio for lower mortgage repayments.

However, landlords cannot simply choose this method; specific criteria must be met, often requiring evidence to be presented to the lender. Factors that may support a commercial valuation include (but are not limited to):

 

  • Planning Permission: The specific planning permission in place (e.g., C4 or Sui Generis, as opposed to standard C3).
  • Surveyor Choice: The specific surveyor instructed to conduct the valuation.
  • Property Location: The nature of the surrounding area.
  • Property Conversion: A substantial conversion from a commercial property to a large HMO is often a strong indicator. Conversely, a standard four-bedroom house operating as an HMO in a residential area may be less likely to qualify.

Calculating commercial HMO value

To calculate the value of your HMO on a commercial basis, you will need to consider the following:
Total Rent Charged

(Gross Monthly Rent)

Operating Costs

Reasonable expenses associated with running the HMO.

Yield

The expected rate of return on the investment.

The following formula can be used to calculate your Commercial HMO Valuation:
(Gross Monthly Rent – Operating Costs) x 12 / Yield

Example Calculation: Consider a ten-bedroom HMO with a gross monthly rent of £6,000 and reasonable operating costs of £1,200 per month, with a target yield of 8.5%.

(Gross Monthly Rent – Operating Costs) x 12 / Yield

Note: Online calculators are available (such as those provided by the HMO Hub) 
to assist with this calculation.

Why accurate valuation matters to landlords

Understanding how to value your HMO is essential for several reasons:

  • Verification: It allows you to verify the valuation provided by your lender during remortgage processes.


  • Buying and Selling: When considering selling or purchasing an HMO, you can accurately assess the investment’s worth.


  • Financial Planning: Correct valuation enables sound financial planning, helping you avoid over-leveraging and strategically plan for equity release for future investments.


By grasping the principles of HMO valuation, you can make more informed decisions regarding your property investments and ensure the long-term success of your HMO business.

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