Rightmove remains a go-to tool for property investors, but knowing how to maximise its features can put you one step ahead of the competition. Whether you’re just starting out, or are a seasoned investor, perfecting how you use Rightmove can help you to find the perfect property to add to your investment portfolio. Here are our top tips.
Insider tips for using Rightmove
Refine your filters ruthlessly
First things first, when searching for investment properties on Rightmove, you should take full advantage of the wide range of built-in filters. Start with specifics, like property type, number of bedrooms, and your price range. If you’re looking for particular features, go further by including extras such as parking, garden space, or location details.
Don’t hesitate to be highly selective – tightening your search criteria eliminates unsuitable options early, saving valuable time and ensuring your shortlist is packed with strong investment contenders. The more precise your filters, the closer you’ll get to finding the perfect property.
Set up multiple saved searches
One of the more common mistakes when trawling Rightmove for investment opportunities is limiting yourself to a single broad search. Instead, create multiple targeted searches tailored to different investment goals – for example, you could set one search for a specific suburb with a strict price cap, and another for properties ideal for HMO conversion.
Broad search terms could bring back hundreds of results, many of which will be unsuitable. Finding those needles in the haystack might require some creativity – so think outside the box with your searches.
A good strategy when looking to buy, renovate, and sell is to look for 2-bed properties that were originally 3-beds and have been converted. A quick re-conversion can turn the property back into a 3-bedroom family home, and add significant value. If you’re searching for potential HMOs, you could also start your search with 4-bed properties with multiple reception rooms, as these can easily be turned into additional bedrooms.
This approach ensures you receive highly relevant adverts, and don’t miss any alerts for those that may have fallen outside of your first search category. By diversifying your saved searches, you’ll stay on top of your opportunities across multiple criteria, while also saving time and effort.
Use the map and draw-a-search feature
Rightmove’s draw-a-search function is a game-changer for pinpointing investment hotspots. Instead of sticking to a broad postcode or general area when searching, draw-a-search (within the map feature) allows you to target specific areas.
You could focus on a specific street with high rental demand, an area with excellent transport links, or somewhere in close proximity to key amenities like a university campus or town centre. By visually defining your search area with a simple click-and-drag, you can zero in on the exact locations that tick all the boxes for your investment strategy – helping you find properties with maximum potential.
Explore ‘recently added’ filters
Stay ahead of your competition by using Rightmove’s ‘recently added’ filters. Narrow your search to properties listed in the last 24 hours, or the past week – this lets you act quickly on any promising opportunities, giving you a better chance to secure a great deal before someone else gets there first.
There’s no filter for longer than 14 days, but another strategy is to select this filter and then check the listing date. Properties that have been on the market for many months often come with a reduced price or motivation for quicker sale.
Use alerts and mobile notifications
To stay on top of ‘recently added’ properties without constant refreshing, set up instant alerts or push notifications through the Rightmove app. Real-time updates let you act fast when the perfect property does come onto the market; allowing you to secure a viewing before other investors even notice the listing. Being quick off the mark can make all the difference.
If you’re not using the app, you can set up alerts from the Rightmove website instead. Simply click “Create alert” when you’ve used your key search criteria, and select for these alerts to be sent to your email address.
Regularly refresh your searches
While saved searches and alerts are useful, don’t rely on them entirely. Make a habit of regularly refreshing your searches, tweaking filters, and experimenting with new keywords based on what you find works. A small change in criteria could make all the difference in finding the perfect investment property.
Sort by ‘lowest price’ to spot bargains
Once you’ve applied your key search features, switch the default sorting option from “Relevance” to “Lowest Price”. This simple change can reveal any hidden gems – properties priced for a quick sale or those needing refurbishment – that you might otherwise miss.
These listings often have excellent potential for long-term returns, making them ideal for savvy investors.
Check historical price data
Rightmove’s “House Prices” section is a goldmine for historical data – where savvy investors compare sold prices, older listings, and price reductions to uncover trends and gauge seller motivation. Spotting reductions or properties lingering on the market could highlight opportunities for negotiation, and help you better assess the property’s long-term value.
Use keyword searches
Using specific keywords in your Rightmove searches can help to uncover unique, specific investment opportunities. Try terms like:
- “Needs modernisation”
- “Auction”
- “Cash buyers only”
By thinking outside the box and using keywords that narrow down the haystack, you can discover properties that standard search filters might miss. This strategy is perfect for investors looking to maximise their portfolio’s potential growth.
Look out for value-adding clues
Outdated decor
Old wallpaper, dated kitchens, or ‘70s bathroom suites can be a key sign that a property hasn’t been updated in a while – possibly because it was inherited or owned by someone older who hasn’t redecorated. Properties like these are ideal for adding value through refurbishment and modernisation, offering excellent potential for increasing rental yields or resale value.
Deceased estates
Dated interiors can also signal a deceased estate, where beneficiaries may be prioritising a quick sale. This creates opportunities for potential price negotiation, flexible completion dates, or other creative deals. If a property seems frozen in time, don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Repossession signs
Keep an eye out for tape over toilets, boilers, or sinks – these are common indicators of a repossessed property, often sold by banks or corporate vendors. These sellers are typically focused on recouping funds quickly rather than securing the highest price, giving you more negotiation leverage.
Pro tip: Repossessed properties can involve extra admin or lack essential warranties, so always factor in those risks when assessing the deal.
Listed with multiple agents
A property listed with multiple agents often signals a motivated seller. This usually happens when it’s been on the market for a while but has failed to sell, and offers opportunities for negotiation and faster closes. Check the property’s listing history on Rightmove to confirm how long it’s been on there, and go armed to viewings with your negotiation hat on.
Maximise your investment portfolio in Nottinghamshire…
Success on Rightmove is all about strategy – refining searches, spotting opportunities, and acting fast. By combining these tactics with expert guidance, you’ll be one step closer to a thriving portfolio.
You can also find local properties that match your exact investment criteria with Purseglove’s tailored sourcing consultation services. Get in touch to find out more!