Where are the real property opportunities in East London right now?
East London is starting to outperform other areas in London. A number of postcodes are standing out for rental yield, demand, and regeneration. In this guide, we look at the places investors are turning to and why they are worth serious attention.
Areas and Topics We Have Looked At In This Article
- Why Buy To Let Investors Are Still Betting on East London
- Purfleet
- Barking and Dagenham
- Bow and Bow Green
- Forest Gate, Leytonstone, Abbey Wood and Silvertown
- How To Balance Yield, Demand and Long Term Value
Why buy to let investors are still betting on East London
Many investors are focusing on East London because areas like IG11, RM19 and RM10 are delivering gross yields between five and seven percent. Properties let quickly and demand stays high, especially with good tenant profiles and strong rentability.
New infrastructure, particularly Crossrail and the Elizabeth line, continues to raise interest. These areas appeal to tenants looking for better transport and value, and investors benefit from fewer empty periods. Backing from the Greater London Authority also gives many zones added reassurance.
Purfleet (RM19): high returns in a quiet, connected area
Purfleet sits just outside Greater London in Thurrock but has strong transport links. Yields can reach seven percent, and it is gaining popularity with commuters. For landlords priced out of inner boroughs, it offers a good mix of value and access.
The area’s c2c line runs straight to Fenchurch Street. Local regeneration is backed by Thurrock Council and led by Purfleet Centre Regeneration Ltd. Investors looking for growth in lesser known areas are starting to move in. As one of the quieter East London regeneration projects, Purfleet is becoming a fringe hotspot for strategic investors.
Pro Tip: Track Crossrail station zones, they still influence tenant demand and resale value.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
Barking and Dagenham (IG11, RM10): fast growth and regeneration
Barking and Dagenham has become a go to zone for East London investment. More than ten thousand homes are planned at Barking Riverside. Travel times have improved with the Elizabeth line.
Letting activity is fast, driven by interest from professionals and families. IG11 and RM10 offer a good mix of yield and future price growth. Barking Riverside remains one of the largest East London regeneration projects underway, reshaping tenant demand across IG11.
While early entry often brings better value, regeneration can be delayed. Local agents help separate plans that are on track from those that are still promises. For investors targeting buy to let East London opportunities, Barking and Dagenham offers one of the most compelling combinations of rental income and capital upside.
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Bow and Bow Green (E3): a balance of yield and lifestyle
Bow offers a mix of returns and lifestyle appeal. Sitting in Zones 2 and 3, the area connects easily to Canary Wharf and the City. E3 has seen capital growth over forty percent in five years and still delivers six percent rental yields.
With Queen Mary University nearby, it draws in students and young professionals. Transport at Mile End and Devons Road adds to the draw. Investors looking for rentability and stable tenants are paying close attention. The Crossrail impact on local pricing and desirability is still being felt, particularly in areas near Bow Church and Roman Road.
Forest Gate, Leytonstone, Abbey Wood and Silvertown: East London’s next wave
These areas are gaining attention. Forest Gate’s streets near Woodgrange Road are filling quickly due to Crossrail. Leytonstone appeals to young professionals moving east from Stratford.
Abbey Wood benefits from the Thamesmead expansion and family friendly layouts. Silvertown, with riverside options and long term planning, is starting to attract buyer interest.
Each of these sits within the wider regeneration corridor. Entry prices are still reasonable. Long term investors are watching them closely. These are some of the strongest future growth zones within East London’s property map.
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How to balance yield, demand and long term value
No one factor makes a good investment. Here is how different elements play out:
High yield areas can bring steady cash flow but may have higher tenant turnover.
Strong capital growth zones deliver resale gains but might rent slower.
Lower entry prices make it easier to start investing but may grow slowly.
Lifestyle led areas attract quality tenants but may be more competitive.
Tax and regulation changes also affect profit. Landlords now face tighter rules around mortgage relief and licensing. Net returns matter more than just top line yield.
At Barrain London, we use data, planning reports and on the ground knowledge to help match properties to investor goals.
Speak to Barrain London for area specific investment support
Barrain London helps landlords find and manage property in East London. The team focuses on zones with strong rental demand and space for price growth.
If you are building a portfolio or planning your first buy to let, they will help you find the right spot. They offer advice based on local knowledge, not guesswork. Compared to the higher costs and lower yields in South and West London, East London continues to stand out.
Pro Tip: Always factor in licensing and tax changes when calculating true net yield.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
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