Void periods for rental property remain high but have stabilised, according to new figures from the National Landlords Association.

In March, 52 per cent of landlords had experienced voids in the previous 12 months. Although still posing a threat to landlord portfolios, this figure is a reduction from 55 per cent during the last three months of 2009. The data also showed that the average duration of voids dropp

ed from 19 days to 17 days. Despite a marked increase in tenant demand and a reduction in supply, there is still only a slight improvement in rental voids.

More good news is that the figures also reveal that the continuing lack of available mortgage finance for first-time buyers, as well as the requirement for higher deposits, means that would-be buyers are renting for longer.