Starting With a HMO: A Bold First Step Into Property Investment

1 Aug

Project / 5 bed HMO, Caversham Reading
Client / Own project
Completed: 2019

Welcome to Our Own Projects Series!

Located just a short walk from Reading's main train station and town center, as well as moments from Caversham's village center, this property is perfectly situated for busy young professionals.

The property underwent a complete back-to-brick renovation, transforming a 4-bedroom single-family dwelling into a high-specification 5-bedroom co-living house share, complete with our signature Scandinavian interior design.

The Story behind this project

This was Portfolio Architects' first in-house investment project, led by Founder and Director Emma. After renovating her own home in Putney, South West London, Emma decided to officially begin her property investment journey. Instead of taking the typical route of starting with a BTL (buy-to-let) and working up, she made the bold decision to go straight into a 5-bedroom HMO conversion.

Financing the project brought its own challenges. With no prior BTL track record, many lenders were reluctant to offer a commercial bridging loan. However, Emma’s architectural expertise and experience managing a share of the freehold for a block of flats helped secure funding with a lender willing to take a broader view of her credentials.

Reading was chosen for its strategic location and strong investment fundamentals. With property prices significantly lower per square metre than in South West London, yet still within an hour’s drive, it offered an ideal balance of affordability and accessibility. The town’s fast-growing population, excellent transport links, and appeal to young professionals made it a high-potential area for co-living. Combined with strong prospects for long-term capital growth, Reading stood out as the perfect place to launch a first HMO project.