‘Gearing’ is essentially the use of borrowed capital (i.e. debt) to part fund a property purchase. It’s also known as ‘leveraging’, though many would refer to it as a mortgage. It’s attractive to many investors because it offers the opportunity to enhance returns; debt increases both risks and rewards.

People use gearing two ways: in the form of a mortgage to purchase their own home (often because they don’t have the capacity for a 100%-equity purchase) or because they would like to enhance returns on an investment property.

The use of debt enhances returns by increasing the investor’s exposure to property price movements. If property prices rise, capital gains are increased, and if the market falls, the investor will see greater losses. Another risk of gearing is rising interest rates that reduce investors’ returns.

The graphs below show the effect on total returns for a sample property with 50% gearing, both in a growing market, and a declining market.

Note: Illustrative returns are based on our Drayton Heights block at launch, exclusive of the capital discount secured on purchase (which enhances returns further). All figures fully account for purchase costs, furnishings, forecast maintenance, annual voids, mortgage interest at 3.99%, corporate taxation and all fees

If you find the potential for enhanced returns attractive, with the bolstered security of multiple units, then why not explore some of the geared property investments we have available.

 
 
Capital at risk. The value of your investment can go down as well as up. The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protects the cash held in your Property Partner account, however, the investments that you make through Property Partner are not protected by the FSCS in the event that you do not receive back the amount that you have invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Forecasts, if stated, are not a reliable indicator of future performance. Interest and capital returned may be lower than expected. Gross rent, dividends, and capital growth may be lower than estimated. 5 yearly exit protection, exit on platform or exit in line with Opportunistic Fund strategy, subject to price and demand. Property Partner does not provide tax or investment advice and any general information is provided to help you make your own informed decisions. Customers are advised to obtain appropriate tax or investment advice where necessary. Financial promotion by London House Exchange Limited (No. 8820870); authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (No. 613499). See Key Risks for further information.