That feminine touch gives women property investors confidence

Female property investors are confident about the real estate market and when it comes to letting are using their feminine intuition to offer more, according to a new survey.

Some 62% of women investors questioned by the National Landlords Association are planning to expand their property portfolio in the next 12 months and a further 32% admitting that the credit crunch has had no impact on their portfolio plans.

They are confident that investing in bricks and mortar is better than leaving their cash in the bank and 87% said property brings a better return than interest in savings.

The survey also revealed that women are radically re-vamping the sector with increased professionalism, attention to detail and superior customer service as the credit crunch demands a new approach.

Over half, 58%, said they are upping their game with the current economic climate and introducing incentives and better deals. Some 63% said they are providing a rent freeze for long term tenants, 10% have reduced rent while 27% are introducing added extras.

Incentives include a free life coach, debt counselling or after care service, language lessons for non-English speaking tenants, flowers and wine for tenants, free monthly window cleaning, flexible payment schemes, flat screen televisions, free broadband, accepting pets and considering DSS tenants.

'We are delighted by the optimism shown by our female members. Female landlords demonstrate that with professionalism, creativity and a flexible approach, property can be a solid investment during the recession,' said David Salusbury, Chairman, NLA.

The research marks the launch of the NLA Property Women Awards 2009 which recognise the success of women who own and manage their own property.

'Amidst the adversity in the market place, it's both empowering and reassuring to be involved with a team of people who are creating opportunities and taking control,' said property consultant Melissa Porter who launched the awards.

'I consider myself a business woman who bases all my work and property decisions on solid business foundations, which is why I think it's so important to celebrate these women who are not only transforming the property market with their business savvy approach, but also their lives, and in many cases the lives of their tenants,' she added.