Investors increase property stakes

A new survey conducted by EBS Building Society and estate agents Gunne Residential shows that 63% of property investors intend to increase their bricks and mortar portfolio within the next five years.

The survey revealed that 80% of respondents invested in property because they believe it is a safer option than other forms of investment.

The research was conducted among 200 property investors, with 41% of respondents owning one investment property, 26% owning two and 22% owning four or more. Some 73% of respondents said they invested in property to provide a pension for themselves.

Some 14% of respondents bought their property in Dublin city centre, 34% in the rest of Leinster, 24% bought in Munster, 17% in Connacht or Ulster, 10% elsewhere in Europe.

Of those questioned, 64% said that the rents they receive are adequate to cover their expenses.

About one third have also invested 10,000 or more into a private pension scheme and 28% in stocks and shares.

Ms Dara Deering, head of mortgages at EBS Building, told The Evening Echo: “There is a high level of confidence among property investors.”