WITH continuing demand for rented accommodation in and around Chatham and the Medway area, especially amongst young professionals commuting into London, we need more two and three bedroom properties for couples and sharers, says Debbie Pennell, branch manager of ARLA-registered, Ashton Burkinshaw.

"All the statistics point to an expanding rental sector for all sorts of reasons," said Debbie. "In particular, young people like the flexibility of renting, which allows them to move around for jobs, and the freedom to spend their money how they want.

"Ten years ago, there was little alternative to buying a property. Nowadays, they can afford to rent better quality properties, in better locations, than they could afford to buy."

As founder members of the Government approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme, landlords and their tenants are automatically protected under the new Tenant Deposit Protection legislation.

The Chatham office also offers a consultancy service where advice and project management is available for landlords. Properties can be prepared for letting so as to maximise their rental yield. Recently, major refurbishments were undertaken on behalf of a landlord for a property in Romney Road that has now been let at £625 per month.

The Chatham office covers most of the Medway area. Properties range from one-bedroom flats to six-bedroom period houses, including many country properties on farms and in rural areas.

For an informal conversation on maximising your rental income, contact Debbie Pennell on 01634 842878.