THE hotel market in Northern Ireland has remained buoyant in the first half of this year, with strong yields, and is becoming increasingly attractive as an investment option, according to Connolly Longhurst property agents in Belfast.
"Hotel investment may be a relatively new concept for most people here, but for those seeking alternative investment options it can deliver a significant income paid by high yield opportunities," the company says.
"Don’t for a second think this sort of investment is only for the wealthy because options currently available in Belfast start from around £90,000 and offer you a hands-off opportunity to buy into a high yielding industry and see an immediate return on your investment.
"These opportunities are also suitable for a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) fund, subject to your provider’s agreement.
"And you as the investor owns the hotel room, but the hotel management will run the hotel.
"It's a superb chance for a passive investor to obtain a guaranteed income and it also gives them exposure to the hotel industry and opens the door for future investment within this high growth sector."
The NI Hotels Federation estimates that £500 million is likely to be invested in hotels infrastructure between now and 2020.
This investment is being driven by forecasts of strong market demand in a burgeoning tourist and business/conference market.
Indeed Belfast has witnessed exceptional growth in its hotel sector and the city is in the UK's top three major cities for occupancy and financial performance.
Connolly Longhurst is currently marketing a range of hotel investment options being developed by Liverpool-based Signature Living Group.
It currently has the George Best Hotel and Waring Hotel available for reservation, with the Lanyon Hotel (it will be located in the landmark former Crumlin Road Courthouse), to follow shortly.
Connolly Longhurst says: "Both the George Best Hotel and Waring Hotel are offering guaranteed returns of 7 per cent net per annum for years one to three, 8 per cent net for year four and 9 per cent net per annum for years five to ten.
"There is also a buyback option from year three onwards and all returns are contractually guaranteed and paid quarterly."
:: For more information on these opportunities contact the Connolly Longhurst office on 02890918844 or email info@connollylonghurst.com
