Key takeaways
- Buying outright is cheapest overall; leasing keeps your cash free for the refurbishment, deposit or next property.
- With a finance lease, the lender buys the furniture and you pay monthly over an agreed term – usually 3–5 years.
- As a rough guide, a £2,415 + VAT package works out at about £95 + VAT a month over 36 months.
- Lease payments are often treated as a business expense – check how it works for you with your accountant.
Your three options
| Option | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Buy outright | Pay the full price on order | Landlords with cash to spare who want the lowest total cost |
| 60-day payment plan | Furniture delivered now, paid within 60 days (subject to status) | Landlords waiting on a refinance, sale or first rent payments |
| Lease finance | Spread the cost over 3–5 years in fixed monthly payments (subject to status) | Portfolio landlords, SA operators and anyone who wants to keep cash for the next project |
How furniture lease finance works
We provide lease finance through our partner Kennet Equipment Leasing, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. In simple terms:
- You choose your furniture package with us.
- Kennet buys the furniture and leases it to you for an agreed term.
- You make fixed monthly payments while the furniture is in your property earning rent.
- At the end of the term you have the option to own the furniture.
Approval depends on status and affordability checks, and documentation fees apply. As with any finance, missing payments can affect your credit rating and could lead to the furniture being taken back. See our finance page for full details.
What it costs each month
Estimated monthly payments over 36 months on our social housing packages give a feel for the numbers:
| Package price | Estimated monthly payment (36 months) |
|---|---|
| £2,415 + VAT | about £95 + VAT |
| £3,060 + VAT | about £120 + VAT |
| £3,685 + VAT | about £145 + VAT |
| £4,770 + VAT | about £190 + VAT |
Your actual rate depends on your business, how long you've been trading and the term you choose – we'll give you an exact figure with your quote.
Put it against the rent. If furnishing an HMO room lets it for £100 a month more than unfurnished – or gets it let weeks sooner – lease payments can be covered by the extra income from day one.
Pros and cons
Buying outright
- Pros: lowest total cost, no credit checks, you own the furniture from day one
- Cons: ties up cash you might need for the refurbishment, deposit or next purchase
Leasing
- Pros: keeps cash free, fixed and predictable monthly payments, the property can earn before the furniture is paid for, and payments may be tax-deductible as a business expense
- Cons: costs more overall than paying cash, subject to approval, and you're committed for the full term
Tax points to check
For businesses, lease payments are often treated as a running cost and deducted from profits, whereas furniture bought outright for a residential let is treated differently – replacements can usually be claimed through Replacement of Domestic Items Relief, but initial furnishing usually can't. The right answer depends on how you hold your properties, so always speak to your accountant before deciding.
Which suits you?
- HMO landlords furnishing several rooms at once often lease, so the refurbishment budget goes on fire doors, kitchens and bathrooms.
- Serviced accommodation operators often lease or use the 60-day plan, so the property is earning before the first payment is due.
- Buy to let landlords with a single property often buy outright – or lease if they're building a portfolio and want to keep cash for the next deposit.
- Housing providers can use lease finance to furnish several properties at once within a monthly budget.
Frequently asked questions
Can landlords lease furniture?
Yes. Through our partner Kennet Equipment Leasing you can spread the cost of a furniture package over 3–5 years, subject to status and affordability checks.
Do I own leased furniture at the end?
At the end of the lease term you have the option to own the furniture. Ask us for the details when you get your quote.
How much is furniture lease finance per month?
As a guide, a £2,415 + VAT package is about £95 + VAT a month over 36 months, and a £3,685 + VAT package about £145 + VAT. Your exact rate depends on your business and the term.
Is leasing furniture tax deductible?
Lease payments are often treated as a deductible business expense, but it depends on how you hold your properties. Speak to your accountant for advice on your situation.
