Female property professionals confident of market recovery

Wednesday, 29 April 2009 4:53 PM

The National Landlords Association (NLA) has found women in property are positive about the future of the market.

The findings, released today, discovered 62 per cent of female property professionals were looking to expand their portfolios over the next year, with 87 per cent believing property brings a better return than savings.

The research has coincided with the launch of the NLA Property Women Awards 2009, which recognises the success of women who manage their own property. Over half of those 500 women surveyed by the NLA said they would be upping their game in the current economic climate, with 63 per cent providing a rent freeze for their tenants, as well as many providing better perks and incentives for tenants.

Property consultant Melissa Porter, launched the awards. She said: "Amidst the adversity in the market place, it's both empowering and reassuring to be involved with a team of people who are creating opportunities and taking control.

"I consider myself a business woman who bases all my work and property decisions on solid business foundations, which is why I think it's so important to celebrate these women who are not only transforming the property market with their business savvy approach, but also their lives, and in many cases the lives of their tenants."

According to the NLA, "business savvy female landlords lead the way in customer service", which was found to be much more important than the price of rent.

David Salusbury, chairman of the NLA said: "We are delighted by the optimism shown by our female members. Female landlords demonstrate that with professionalism, creativity and a flexible approach, property can be a solid investment during the recession.

"The NLA Property Women Awards is our way of recognising their successes, the challenges they've overcome and, ultimately, act as an inspiration for more women to become landlords themselves."

National chairman of the Association of Women in Property, Joanna Embling, added: "These results are very encouraging and we are delighted that things appear to be looking up for these inspiring women.

"Within our own organisation we are getting positive feedback and hearing success stories which, although anecdotal rather than research-based, is also gratifying. With a strong, professional approach and a supportive network - something that both our associations offer - our members are rising to today's unprecedented challenges."

By Sarah Garrod

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• uk property news