2018 in preview: James Bailey, Bruton Knowles

James Bailey, managing partner at Bruton Knowles, gives us his three predictions for business in 2018.

1. I suspect that the focus on industrial investment may have peaked and next year will see a shift towards increased retail investment, albeit the creation of new and different retailing formats. Whilst there is still a big part to be played by the High Street, there will need to be greater variety and flexibility in the retail sector, especially in the East Midlands region which could be taken advantage of in 2018.

2. We also anticipate that investors will be prepared to increase capital investment in their properties to secure longer term tenants. As the gap between prime and secondary property hardens, investors will think more creatively about the space they have on offer and the building infrastructure, such as fibre wi-fi installations; they should and will be prepared to invest in refurbishments that will ensure the properties are fully let.

3. The new stamp duty rules implemented following the Autumn Budget are expected to improve the residential sector’s buoyancy and fuel demand in the region as properties valued up to £300,000 are now exempt from the tax. Buyers can get much more for their money in Nottinghamshire and the wider region so we could see a surge in people moving into the regions where it’s possible to secure a much better investment