Insurance News Archive

Renters 'should be embraced'

Britons opting to rent property without estate agents should be encouraged, it has been suggested.

James Davis, chief executive officer (CEO) and founder of upad, commented those choosing to do so should be "embraced".

He stated he is unsure whether high street agents would be able to cope with the demand if every consumer took the traditional letting route, adding this could also lead to losses for landlords.

Mr Davis went on to say the rental markets of countries such as France and Germany show the steps that need to be taken in the UK, with the industry having a requirement to "attract landlords into the market place rather than push them away".

The CEO concluded if Britain follows the lead of other European nations a sector with increasing levels of choice for both tenants and property owners can be found.

Recently, the Rugg Review stated 60 per cent of private landlords used estate agents in 2006, compared to 47 per cent in 2003.

26 Nov 2008