According to research by Paragon Mortgages, 89% of landlords in the student lettings market experienced strong levels of demand.

The research found that the stereotypical view of the unreliable student tenant is at odds with what the majority of landlords encountered. Over 80% of landlords classed students as being punctual with their rent, 90% found that their tenants were well behaved throughout their tenancies and 66% said that students kept their properties in a good condition.

Landlords were also asked about what the main factors were for students when they searched for a property. Aside from cost, the top three factors were proximity to the university, followed by the property having an internet connection and finally the distance to a local pub.

John Heron, managing director of Paragon Mortgages, told PIN: “Students have an undeserved reputation for leaving properties in a bad state of repair. With the introduction of tuition fees and the cost of living increasing, the modern student needs to keep a close eye on their finances and they cannot afford to lose a deposit or risk earning a bad reputation as a tenant for future lets. The student market is a popular one for landlords as they deliver good yields and landlords can pick up property relatively cheaply in student areas.”