Moneyfacts: Student buy-to-let worth a look

Investing in a buy-to-let property could be an option worth considering for parents whose children are attending university, according to financial comparison site Moneyfacts.co.uk.

Further education is becoming increasingly expensive and one of the main costs facing students is accommodation.

According to research by the comparison site, over 40 lenders offer buy-to-let mortgages for student homes, with Bristol & West announcing this week that their offering will be extended to cover such properties.

Lee Tillcock of Moneyfacts.co.uk admitted that the upfront costs of purchasing a property can be "sizeable" but said the rewards can make it worthwhile.

"Not only will your child live rent-free, the rental income from the other tenants in the house should at least cover your interest costs and hopefully more," he said.

"Also, if house prices continue to rise, you will benefit from any appreciation in value of the property when you come to sell."

Mr Tillcock stressed the importance of considering the expenses of becoming a landlord as properties have to be brought in line with health and safety regulations, preparations must be made in case a tenant leaves and maintenance costs also have to be covered.

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