About
Emma Costello is one of Blandford’s most successful & dynamic female entrepreneurs. Her business Costello Lettings successfully manages a steadily growing property portfolio
Property is Emma Costello’s passion – it always has been. At 19 she bought her first flat in Alum Chine, Westbourne. A Natural Talent for business eventually led to the formation of Costello Lettings, the company of which is owner and director of. The independent business is based in West Street, Blandford and over the last 15 years she has developed a business and personal property portfolio that covers the counties of Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire.
Emma genuinely believes it’s not just about letting a flat or a house but a home – a place for people to feel happy, safe and secure. Her mission statement has always been “To do what I say I will do” and it works – with a great deal of Emma’s business relationships being built on recommendations.
What really separates Emma from the larger franchised lettings businesses is everyone who works for her is a landlord with their own portfolio, providing insight into exactly what clients need while still providing a personal touch.
An eye for investment property is another area in which Emma Costello excels. Some recent projects include a joint venture, Fordington House in Dorchester where Emma oversaw the purchase, refurbishment and resale of the Grade II listed property. Another recent project is the refurbishment of a 4 bedroom bungalow in Spetisbury, with stunning views over the River Stour.
What really separates Emma from the larger franchised lettings businesses is everyone who works for her is a landlord with their own portfolio, providing insight into exactly what clients need while still providing a personal touch.
An eye for investment property is another are in which Emma Costello excels. Some recent projects include a joint venture, Fordington House in Dorchester where Emma oversaw the purchase, refurbishment and resale of the Grade
FAQs
Venus Award Nominee
Emma Costello was nominated for ‘The Venus Awards Entrepreneur of the Year’ in 2013. The Venus Award recognises influential and entrepenurial women in business in the Dorset area with Emma just narrowly missing out on winning this coveted award.
West Dorset Accreditation Team for Landlords
Landlords in West Dorset and Weymouth & Portland have joined together in partnership with the councils to share information and experiences. Similar to the National landlords Association, the West Dorset Accreditation Team for Landlords recognises responsible landlords who manage good quality housing on a local county level.
National Landlord Association
Members of the The NLA are expected to observe/maintain good practice and standards in connection with the letting of their residential properties. The NLA sets down a code of practice, which members are expected to abide by ensuring good relations between landlord andtenant.
How do I fund my deals?
Our personal property deals are funded by excellent Buy to let or commercial funding obtained by mortgage broker. Other sources include private investors, family or friends with cash input. I have to establish good working relationships with a variety of skills and package each deal on its own merit.
What rent can I achieve when I let my property?
There are no hard and fast rules, but if you were purchasing a two bedroom house in the Blandford area you could look to achieve £650 to £695 pcm unfurnished.
What type of property should I invest in?
Type of property is of course an important factor but one of the most important considerations is location, location location! Invest in property in areas where you will have a high demand from aspirational people.
What returns can I expect once the property is let?
From previous experience in the market I would suggest that you will be looking at a 10% return.
How do I ensure the quality of my tenants?
Be sure to choose an agent with the same values as you and hope for the best!
Who maintains the property when empty, let or being refurbished?
The owner of the property maintains the property internally and externally whilst it’s empty and being refurbished. When the property is let the owner still has a responsibility to maintain the building and its appliances, however the tenant will have a responsibility to look after the property and its gardens.