Future landlords plan to take a hands-on approach to their investments, with the majority saying they would manage their properties themselves, according to Birmingham Midshires.

Around 54% of people who plan to get a buy-to-let property said they would manage it themselves, rather than pay an agent to do it. And 88% admitted that they would frequently drive past their property to check how well the tenants were keeping it. In addition, more than a third of landlords also said they would fix problems and carry out maintenance themselves, rather than pay a professional to do it.

Tim Hague, managing director of mortgages at Birmingham Midshires, said: “With landlords enjoying an average return of 16.3% in 2007, buy-to-let remains a sound long-term investment. We expect firm demand to continue throughout 2008 and beyond.”