Private sector rents in Perth and Kinross have shot up by nearly 8% since 2010, according to a new study.
Four bedroom properties saw the largest increase, with rents going up by nearly 15%, which equates to an increase of £134 over the five years between 2010 and 2015.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser, believes that increasing rents indicate how attractive the area is to live and work but has warned that overly-expensive rents could become a detractor in the future.
The average one bedroom property in the area rents for £403, with £529 for a two bedroom, £680 for a three bedroom and £992 for a four bedroom.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Perth has always been an attractive place to live and work and increasing private sector rents would appear to indicate that this is still the case.
“Nonetheless a balance needs to be drawn between private sector rents remaining affordable whilst giving landlords enough revenue to provide high quality lets.
“There has been a sharp 8.7% increase in rental values for four bedroom properties between 2014 and 2015 and I am concerned that this could leave many families priced out of the market.
“It is important that private sector renters and landlords get value for money and return on investment.”