Despite the abrupt decline of investors buying properties after the credit crunch, Ashford is seeing record demand for houses to let, according to Hobbs Parker.

The area is also being signalled as ripe for investors after The Times put it in the top 10 areas for investment purposes, claiming a good train service could add 20 to 30 per cent to the value of houses.

Moya Bowerman, head of residential lettings at Hobbs Parker, said: "Ashford is being acknowledged by many as an excellent place to live.

"Not only are there great plans for the town's regeneration and future, but the arrival of the high-speed bullet train to London means we're seeing an influx of new people - particularly professional couples and young families - all looking for accommodation. Many people are renting as a way of getting to know the area before they buy. At the moment demand is completely out-stripping supply for rental properties, particularly smaller family homes with two to three bedrooms."

Moya added: "Although finance is harder to secure, if you have funds available for a proportionally larger deposit, it's certainly possible to find suitable buy-to-let properties in Ashford and the local villages.

"Rental figures are holding up well and if the current trend continues, they could well rise. I'd also add that if anyone has property lying empty, now is a fantastic time to consider letting it out."

For more information about properties available, visit www.KentHomes.co.uk