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Argyll & Bute has a relatively large private rented sector. Almost one fifth of all homes in Argyll and Bute are private rented homes. In fact, there are almost as many properties in this sector alone as there are housing association homes.
The size of the private rented sector is much higher than in other areas of Scotland. This means that renting your home privately is an important housing option in Argyll and Bute.
The private rented sector includes companies specialising in owning and leasing properties; large estate owners leasing vacant properties; seasonal lets used as holiday accommodation or second homes; and temporary short-term lets, for example while owners are abroad.
However, access to private rented accommodation varies from local area to area. In particular, there can be seasonal changes. Some properties are rented over the winter periods, but in the summer season can be restricted to short-term lets for tourists.
The island communities, with a high proportion of properties owned by a few large estates, generally have the highest rate of private rentals in the authority. However, a significant number of these consist of “tied” tenancies occupied by people working on the local estates.
Property conditions vary. You may be able to find some high quality rented housing. However, in some areas property condition can be poor, particularly at the lower end of the rental market.