Over two in five (46%) UK property investors have said they seek out news, analysis and opinion in specialist property and finance websites to inform their investment decisions, Market Financial Solutions (MFS) has found.

In a survey of 2,000 UK adults, it was found that 16% hold property investments, ranging from buy-to-let and second homes to holiday homes and commercial units.

Of these property investors, over half (55%) of respondents revealed that they have become more diligent in assessing risk before making investment decisions over the past two years.

Almost three in five (57%) said that macroeconomic factors, such as interest rates and inflation, significantly influence their property investment decisions at presents, while 55% place a high importance on house and rental price forecasts when considering changes to their portfolios.

To help them guide their investment decisions, almost half (46%) said they seek out news and opinion to manage their investments, with over a third (35%) stating that they rely on an intermediary, such as an independent financial adviser, wealth manager, broker or adviser, to inform their strategies.

Despite this, two fifths (43%) of property investors said they find it challenging to remain up to date on property market news and trends.

Chief executive officer at MFS, Paresh Raja, said: "The past two years – defined by high inflation, rising interest rates and house price stagnation – have clearly prompted property investors to become more diligent in assessing risk. Here, our research underscores the important role the trade press plays.

"More investors look to news and analysis in specialist property and finance publications to inform their decisions than rely on advisors or brokers. Undoubtedly, it’s more important than ever that lenders and brokers double down on their commitment to providing insightful and engaging content – on their own platforms and in the trade press – to help investors navigate the various challenges they face. With the economic climate still testing, and a general election approaching, this will certainly prove highly valuable in the next 12 months."

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