The lettings department of a central London independent agency is claiming its busiest January in some years.

Russell Simpson, a family-run independent celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, says January 2018 was four times busier than the same month last year. 

The agency covers Chelsea, Belgravia, South Kensington, Mayfair, Marylebone, Bloomsbury and Covent Garden. 

Charlie Woods, head of lettings at the firm, says: “We have been lucky enough to agree more four times more deals in January and December than the previous year and twice more in November and October. We are thrilled to have had such busy start to the year, especially considering the current climate and with Brexit looming.”

He continues: “Our core market of one and two bedroom flats is still steady, but the demand for larger family homes has really taken off. The driver behind this is two-fold. Firstly, many vendors are becoming more accustomed to renting and are happy take a tenancy for one or two years whilst the political dust settles. Said vendors are then carrying out any necessary works on their own properties, meaning the quality of stock available is better than ever.”

“There is also the reality that life changes constantly, so families may suddenly need to move to be near a particular school or university and don’t have the option of waiting until after Brexit.”