Private landlords face the dilemma of whether or not to use an agency when renting out property.

Some opt for a DIY approach to avoid paying finding fees and service charges, but others prefer the security of having an agency to vet tenants, collect rent and deal with repairs.

Dr Caroline Jenkins, 32, owns a two-bedroom apartment on the top floor of a development at St George’s Manor in Littlemore.

She bought it two years ago for £195,000 and as a first-time landlady has chosen to let it through an agency.

She said: “When I decided to move in with my boyfriend, it made financial sense to keep my property and rent it out.

“I will be living about 13 miles away, so won’t be able to pop over if anything needs repairing or sorting out.

“It is about peace of mind and also means you are removed from those slightly embarrassing conversations about rent and deposits at the end of the tenancy.”

Dr Jenkins can also see things from a tenant’s perspective, having rented for ten years before buying the flat in Radcliffe House.

She said: “From the perspective of a young professional, it is very important the property is well maintained.

“I had one experience where there were several things going wrong with a property I was renting and there was total silence from the landlord.

“Life begins at home and if that isn’t right it can impact on everything,” she added.

In common with many first-time buyers, Dr Jenkins, a senior research contract manager in the Medical Sciences Division of Oxford University, struggled to get on the property ladder.

She said: “Most financial institutions want a minimum of 25 per cent as a deposit and it takes a long time to save that amount.

“I managed to gradually amass a chunk of money which was matched by my parents — I couldn’t have bought without their help.”

The Radcliffe House apartment includes a sitting room, kitchen with dishwasher, two double bedrooms and two bathrooms and parking space.

It is available to rent, furnished, immediately for £925 per month. For more information, contact agents Scottfraser on 01865 244666 or visit scottfraser.co.uk