The housing sales market improved in the last quarter of 2009 from a very low base in 2008. This year there is an immediate shortage of properties for sale locally, keeping asking prices high; mortgages remain difficult for most people to access, and we face a very uncertain economic and political future.

The demand for rental property is always high, but this year in particular letting agents are experiencing an urgent need for more landlords and properties.

Landlords can be professional, usually owning flats or small houses tending to attract the best returns and regard their property as a long-term investment or a revenue stream. Then there are accidental landlords who need to move but can't sell at an acceptable price, so let their home and rent another property elsewhere.

These landlords are less concerned perhaps about the percentage return but require mobility. This saves stress in the sales process with no stamp duty and costly legal fees. This option also allows an escape route if required.

In either of these cases the landlord can choose to find his own tenant and manage their property himself, but with more risks attached. Alternatively they may employ a letting agent - with more costs, but safer, particularly for a first time landlord.

Graham Hathaway works at Martin & Co, Caterham & Reigate. For further information contact them on 01883 332933.

Martin & Co is a well established local family-run lettings business which is part of a 160-strong network of franchises.