Homeowners who plan to emigrate and rent out their property have been given some advice by the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA).

Such a move may require Brits to use bank transfers to allow them to exchange their sterling for foreign currency and send money back and forth between countries as required.

According to ARLA, it can be comforting to retain a base in the country you are from, especially if you only plan to move away temporarily.

"Many people who work or retire to another country choose to let their UK property to tenants," said operations manager Ian Potter.

"This is a smart move for many reasons, but as ever it is important to ensure that everything is done correctly."

He advised Brits in such a position to use a professional letting agent and understand the time it may take to get a property rented out.

Homeowners can help themselves by decorating their house to a high standard to attract renters and should also ensure they tell their bank and insurer of their plans.

Meanwhile, the Hampshire & Home Counties Property Networking Club recently noted that the UK lettings market is booming just now, thanks to the difficulties many Brits experience in getting a mortgage.

Posted by Emmanuel Addy