With attractive returns on offer, a growing number of property investors are looking to add commercial properties to their portfolios, according to a leading property auctioneer.

Many buy-to-let investors are now switching from an investment portfolio of residential investment property to an investment portfolio of commercial investment property, as part of a more diversified investment strategy designed to ensure their investments remain profitable, amid recent changes to buy-to-let mortgage interest relief and stamp duty.

“One interesting trend for 2017 we have noticed is increasing demand for commercial premises or mixed use properties as investment opportunities,” said James Emson, managing director of Clive Emson Auctioneers.

He continued: “Canny investors are spotting good yields within the commercial property sector and are allying purchases with their residential portfolios.

“This is driving demand, especially of mixed use premises, and thus it is an especially good time to buy and sell.”

A wide selection of commercial and residential properties feature in Clive Emson’s latest auction catalogue ahead of the firm’s February’s sale, along with farmland, garages and even a beach hut.

Reflecting on the newly resealed catalogue, Emson said: “Once again we have something for everyone at our latest sale, to suit the tastes and pockets of owner-occupiers, developers and investors.”

It followed the firm’s November auction in which £18m worth of land and property was sold on the back of a 90% success rate.

“Our online auction is also going from strength to strength and the old adage that the best place to put your money is in bricks and mortar has never rung truer,” he added.