Apprentices, expansions show it's not grim up north

A series of agency expansions across the north of England combine to show the strength of the lettings sector in the region.

Yorkshire agency Linley & Simpson is opening recruitment for five new apprentices who will spend a year with the company while studying for a NVQ Level 2 in letting or estate agency. It is open to under-23 year olds who do not have a degree.

Promoting the value of apprenticeships in this way adds an extra dimension to our recruitment programme and if this pilot is successful, we will repeat it promises Paula Ingham, Linley & Simpson training manager.

Meanwhile letting and management company GFW Letting, part of the George F. White Group, is merging with Newcastle-based letting agent Davis Keep Ltd. has merged with the company.

The Davis Keep office in Gosforth will be rebreanded with the GFW Letting name and will see the GFW patch extend across the whole of the North East from Northumberland through to Tyne and Wear and County Durham.

Recent surveys show that although rents themselves are staying roughly static across northern England the proportion of households in the private rented sector is rising, with most estate agents reporting a rise in would-be landlords seeking buy-to-let properties.