Landlords should capitalise on high demand for rental properties as the housing sales market continues to slow, according to a letting and management agency.

If your property is on the market but failing to sell, Bluestone’s Jenny Stone’s advice is to consider letting it.

And if you have spare capital to invest in buy-to-let, purchasing now while prices are lower should generate a good return on a long-term investment.

Ms Stone said: “In the right areas, demand for rental properties is outstripping supply. A one- or two-bedroom city centre apartment can generate a rental figure of about £1,000-£1,600 per month.

“Central Oxford is always popular, particularly the area around the Said Business School, Headington, Marston and Jericho.”

For anyone who plans to let a property and manage it themselves, Ms Stone’s main tip is to join the National Landlord Association and take advantage of the professional advice and expertise it offers.

She added: “It is important to research the requirements and legal implications before you get started. If you still don’t feel confident, find a good agent.

“If you have the funds for buy-to-let, then go ahead. But that is with the proviso that it is location that counts. Be careful where you buy and if you don’t know Oxford really well, take advice.

“Decide what sort of tenants you are aiming at — is it students, professionals or families? Ask yourself ‘How much have I got to spend? Where am I going to spend it? What is the return likely to be?”

She believes that buy-to-let apartments in the city centre with parking are wise investments. Also, tying in with the academic year and offering short lets from July to September can give you an edge over other landlords.

Ms Stone said because of the trend for professional sharers to save money by teaming up with two or three other professionals, properties with double bedrooms are often easier to rent than one with a double and two singles.

“Sharing with other professionals means they can get away with paying only £300 rent each per month, making a good quality apartment or house affordable,” she explained.

“Ultimately, the key for any landlord is the right property at the right price and as the uncertainty in the sales sector goes on, the rental market continues to thrive.”

Bicester-based Bluestone Letting & Management re-launched with new branding in July. For more advice about letting, or to view properties available for rental, visit bluestonelm.co.uk