Dr Gill James

Dr Gill James
GuestInvest Investor - Nest

A Doctor of Creative Writing and a published author, Gill James is also a seasoned property investor with a number of investments both in the UK and abroad. Gill has now added a hotel room to her growing portfolio, having purchased one at GuestInvest's hotel, Nest, in Bayswater.

Based in Southampton, Gill's family and work often brings her to London. The prospect of having her own room in which to stay, rather than dashing for the last train of an evening, is very appealing.

Under the concept, Gill owns a fully-maintained room under a 999-year lease. She is able to stay there, or invite guests to stay, for up to 52 nights a year for free, while also receiving 50 per cent of the room's income which is let out by the hotel on her behalf throughout the rest of the year.

"The prospect of owning my hotel room gives me a great investment opportunity and the ability to stay in the Capital when I want, with much more flexibility and greater benefits than owning a flat. Unlike a residential buy-to-let, I can stay in my hotel room at ad hoc times throughout the year, and can avoid lengthy gaps in tenancy. Nor do I have to worry about a flat that sits empty for most of the year, posing a huge security risk, and earning no income.

"The outlook for returns on my hotel room is quite strong, with a guaranteed 6 per cent in the hotel's first year of operation. And since London is such a strong hotel market attracting both business and leisure travellers, I'm sure these projected returns will grow as occupancy rates will no doubt be high, offering me security and diversity in my portfolio.

"Since all of the maintenance and marketing of my hotel room will be taken care of by GuestInvest, I'm looking forward to enjoying this 'hassle-free' investment."