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 If you are looking for investment property in the UK now could be a good time to look. As the property market continues to cool, agents are reporting the return of a buyer’s market with investors currently achieving purchases at 94.3% of the asking price.

Here we summarise some of the most popular routes of property investment, which include buying off plan, buying to let, buying in an area of expected growth and modernising run-down property.

For investors looking to get the most for their money, Scotland is a good place to look. One of the most affordable places for investment property in the UK, Scotland’s property prices are almost one-third less than the national average. Due to economic prosperity from high oil prices, Scotland also tops many current lists as being the area most likely to experience the greatest price increases over the coming year.

With its popular university, rich history and international airport, Aberdeen is full of potential for those looking for investment property in the UK. The agent Gavin Bain & Co holds a wide range of properties in Aberdeen from £68,500 to £450,000, including a two-bedroom apartment in an attractive, character development in Candlemakers Lane for £165,000. For the same price, you can purchase a three-bedroom semi-detached family home in the Sheddocksley area from the company Andersonbain & Co.

Buying off plan is also a great way to capitalise on an investment property in the UK. Many developers offer significant savings on property bought before the build has been completed, which gives you a good return on the market prices right away. For those who are investing in property to let, finding the perfect location with good rental demand is key.

Investment property in the UK is available in an up-and-coming area of Manchester where demand for rental accommodation is high. Marketed through the BuyProperty4Less website, The Cube and The Mews developments both have a range of apartments for sale from £116,450 to £152,150. Both developments are due for completion in the Autumn of 2008 and are available with a 15% discount for off-plan purchasers.

Currently, landlords with one-bedroom apartments in the area are earning rental income at a rate of £550 to £575 per month and two-bedroom apartments are commanding rent of £700 per month.

Another growing area for investment property in the UK is Leeds. Undergoing a period of considerable regeneration, Leeds has a property market that is expected to see significant returns over the next few years. The UK’s second financial centre after London, Leeds has a large university population and good transport links. In the Holbeck area of the city prices of traditional Victorian terraces are expected to appreciate dramatically. Your Move is currently listing a five-bedroom terrace in the area for £149,995, which has great letting potential. For investors looking for city centre properties, consultants Sanderson Weatherall have over 50 one and two-bedroom apartments for all budgets ranging from £95,000 to £400,000. These include units in a modern development by international design group Yoo for £130,000.

Another popular route for investors is to buy a run-down property to do up and sell on. In the current UK property market, houses that are in need of modernisation are being snapped up quicker than those that are in pristine condition so choosing this route means you may have to move quickly. The company Renovate Today will keep you up to date with lists of properties in need of renovation for a subscription fee of £10 or £20 a month depending on the region you choose. If you want to buy investment property in the UK through auction, you can also find websites that list auction agents in your area such as LandlordZone.co.uk.