London tenants demanding more from rental accommodation

01 2007
Tenants renting accommodation in the capital are getting "choosier" and demanding better quality furniture and fittings, landlords are reporting.

According to the capital's property experts, the highest growth in popularity is currently being seen in the top end of the rental market, with flats aimed at young professionals rather than chief executives or students.

While those new to the city may have previously rented the first flat they viewed, now they are becoming more aware of what they can get for their money and asking more of their landlords, a leading estate agent has stated.

Tim Hyatt of the London estate agent Knight Frank advises those looking for a rental property: "Don't go for the flat at the back of the block, make sure the property is an easy walk to public transport, and ensure there is a nice restaurant and community amenities in the area."

The good news for renters is that, as property prices begin to wobble, average rents have also started to decline after years of steady growth.

Figures published by the Times show that prime rents in London have fallen by an average of 0.8 per cent over the past month, with the biggest reverses seen in the southwest, Islington and Docklands, all popular areas with young professionals. ADNFCR-1219-ID-18339521-ADNFCR

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