'Location is main priority for tenants'

Location is still the key priority for tenants when it comes to choosing homes to rent, a new study has revealed.

According to Belvoir Lettings, good transport links and proximity to local amenities are important, although as the number of families looking to rent increases, demand for properties in good school catchment areas is also up.

Tenant expectations are rising, with shabby decor and second-hand furniture one of the major turn-offs and items such as fitted kitchens and power showers now seen as basics.

Meanwhile, demand for dedicated parking spaces, larger, more spacious property and good security is also rising, the firm said.

Managing director of Belvoir Lettings Mike Goddard said that the number of new builds coming onto the rental market in the past couple of years had really had an impact on overall standards and meant that tenants' expectations were rising all the time.

"Better standards also mean the rental market is increasingly accommodating a higher number of young professionals, older couples and families who now choose to rent rather than buy," he added.

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors figures show that tenant demand rose to its highest level for nine years in the final quarter of 2006.

Landlord Mortgages comments “Our experienced landlords certainly know that the location of the Buy To Let property is very important to obtaining good rental returns.”

LettingAgent.com comments “Tenants will always ask about nearby bus stops, train stations, shops and Schools. The better located properties tend to achieve the highest rents but on the other hand they do cost more to buy.”

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