The days of authoritarianism and contempt from local authorities towards private landlords might just be coming to an end as councils start seeing the value of private sector partnerships, writes Tony Booth .

This apparent change of attitude could just be a survival strategy to help combat the mounting pressure of public sector accommodation shortages, but either way, it has considerable advantages to those now investing in the buy-to-let market.

Public Sector Leasing

The concept of Public Sector Leasing (PSL) was introduced a few years ago. Borne out of the government's empty properties campaign, it essentially brings redundant accommodation back into use and provides owners with an improved property and source of income. The concept makes everyone a winner ... and expands the volume of available property to local authorities that have a mandate to house the most vulnerable or needy on their waiting lists.

The PSL system has proved very successful and various agencies in the commercial sector are now competing to supply enterprising new schemes targeted at private sector landlords and property investors throughout the UK.