Looking ahead at High Wycombe’s lettings market in 2012

The lettings market during 2011 was characterised by exceptionally high demand for accommodation with many tenants having to compete for a limited supply of properties. This led to rising rents, attractive yields and greater confidence in the market for landlords.

Looking ahead into 2012, High Wycombe’s leading letting specialist, Grants, predicts the market will be similar in terms of strong demand, but that property stocks will begin to improve as investors turn to the PRS as a viable alternative to the volatile stock market and low interest rates.

Says Grants’ senior manager, Jim Browning: “We are seeing a small but significant increase in enquiries from buy to let landlords seeking our advice at the initial stage of purchasing which suggests that investment in the PRS will increase. In addition to new investment, we expect more rental properties to come onto the market from people giving up on the sales market, and from people who inherit property choosing to let rather than sell.

“This will be good for renters as it will facilitate more movement for those relying on the PRS over the medium to long-term. Many couples and families need to move up the rental ladder to larger properties which will ensure continued demand across all property types.

“We had a very busy 2011 and the market here remains healthy for investment landlords. We have seen an increase in rental values of one and two bedroom flats and more tenants asking for long term tenancies. We are also seeing more tenants asking to renew their tenancies, giving landlords greater security. The student market has also been extremely busy due to a lack of housing provided by Bucks New University and we are helping many landlords make the best of this flourishing market.”

For advice you can trust on all aspects of renting or letting in High Wycombe please contact Grants Lettings on 01494 472828, email lettings@grants-lettings.co.uk