If you’re looking to invest in buy-to-let property in 2025, Cardiff continues to tick all the right boxes. Wales’s capital city blends strong tenant demand, regeneration-led growth, and affordable prices – making it one of the most attractive options for landlords in the UK.
At Martin & Co Cardiff, we’ve helped hundreds of landlords start and grow their portfolios here – and we know the city inside out. Here’s our guide to the best areas to invest, the strongest performing property types, and how to make a smart move this year.
Why Cardiff still delivers for landlords
Cardiff has a winning combination of factors that appeal to a wide variety of tenants. It’s home to two major universities, a growing tech and media sector, and a young, dynamic workforce. That means consistent rental demand – not just from students, but professionals and families too.
It’s also a city where you can find solid yields, scope for capital growth, and a range of property options to suit every landlord strategy.
Compared to other UK cities, Cardiff’s prices remain accessible while still offering excellent prospects. And with good transport links, green spaces, and waterside living, it’s a city that renters want to call home.
The best buy-to-let areas in Cardiff right now
Cathays
Always in demand with students, Cathays is ideal for landlords looking at HMOs or shared houses. It’s close to the university campuses and city centre, and offers excellent yields. Just be mindful of licensing and planning rules – we can help you navigate these.
Roath
Roath appeals to a mix of students, graduates and young professionals. With its cafes, parks and access to Albany Road, it’s a lifestyle location with strong tenant demand. Victorian terraces and flats offer good value and rental returns.
Cardiff Bay
A great choice for professional tenants, especially those working in tech, finance, or media. The area features modern flats, secure developments, and great views. While yields can be a little lower, demand is high and capital growth potential remains strong.
Grangetown
This area is on the up. Grangetown offers excellent value and is popular with sharers and younger renters who want to be close to the city without city centre prices. As regeneration continues, the area is likely to grow in popularity.
Heath and Llanishen
These northern suburbs offer a more traditional buy-to-let option, with lower turnover and long-term tenants. Great schools, parks and transport links make them ideal for families. A safe, steady option for landlords who want predictable returns.
What type of property performs best in Cardiff?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer – but based on recent performance and demand, we recommend looking at:
- Two-bedroom terraces in areas like Roath and Grangetown
- HMOs in Cathays for high-yield student letting (with proper licensing)
- One- or two-bed flats in Cardiff Bay with modern amenities
- Three-bed homes in family areas like Llanishen and Heath
These property types meet the needs of Cardiff’s main tenant groups – students, professionals, and families – and often come with minimal voids and strong yields.
What kind of yields can landlords expect?
Yields vary depending on property type and area, but here’s a rough guide based on current figures:
- Cathays – 7% to 9% for HMOs
- Roath – 6% to 7% for terraces or converted flats
- Grangetown – 6% to 7% with room to grow
- Cardiff Bay – 4.5% to 6% for modern flats
- Llanishen/Heath – 4% to 5.5% for family lets
It’s worth noting that gross yield is only part of the story. Net yield after maintenance, management and compliance costs is what truly matters, and that’s where expert advice can make a big difference.
Compliance and practical considerations
Before you buy, make sure you understand what’s required:
- HMOs will need licensing and may be subject to Article 4 restrictions
- EPC ratings must meet minimum standards (with future changes coming)
- Leasehold flats may carry service charges factor these into your calculations
- Local authority guidance around planning, safety and management should always be followed
We help landlords assess these risks and build them into their investment planning.
Why work with Martin & Co Cardiff?
We don’t just know Cardiff’s property market – we work in it every day. Our team helps landlords identify buy-to-let opportunities, calculate expected returns, and manage properties smoothly.
Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your portfolio, we can support you with:
- Property sourcing and investment advice
- Yield calculations and area comparisons
- Full compliance and licensing support
- Property management and tenant communication
We also have access to off-market opportunities and early-bird alerts for rental-ready homes.
Ready to invest in Cardiff?
If 2025 is your year to invest or reinvest in property, make sure you get the advice that sets you up for success.
Book a one-to-one landlord consultation with our Cardiff team and let’s explore where your next opportunity lies.
Book your landlord investment consultation with Martin & Co Cardiff.
