The month of February saw a continued upward shift in stock levels and increased confidence from Landlords and Applicants in the lettings market, said Hamptons International .

Whist Hamptons are still behind February 2004 figures, many of the offices are experiencing renewed vigour compared to previous months. As ever, the trend is being set within London and they expect this to follow into the Country region.

As predicted in recent reports, stock levels have continued to increase, especially in London with many branches close to 100 rental properties on their books.

There has been a 20% increase of stock in the City office since February 2004. Other notable offices include Clapham who have had a 133% increase in new properties available to let on last year. Paddington rose by 47%, Pimlico by 46% and Wimbledon saw a 64% rise.

Dayle Hodgson, Senior Manager for Central and South London cluster said, "With the Sales market slowing down in past months, investors have been bringing their properties back to the Lettings market."

This is yet to be mirrored in areas outside London, however Hamptons predict that this will filter through to the country offices within the next few months.

With increasing levels of stock in some areas, it is still one and two bedroom apartments which remain the popular investment for ‘buy to let’ landlords, with the well-presented properties letting quickly.