But the last decade seen dramatic upheavals in the property markets and some strange new phenomena have arisen. One unusual twist is the rise of the high-end letting. Outside London these used to be rare anomalies, but have become increasingly common. Many of these are properties for sale that are put on the rental market in the absence of a buyer, or because the owner wants to wait for a higher price. Here are 15 of the most expensive homes for sale in Harrogate according to Zoopla Of course, not all high-end lettings belong to so-called “reluctant landlords”. Large properties are also let out when the owners are absent for prolonged stints, often to work abroad. So, the supply side is expanding, but who are the tenants providing the demand? In the Harrogate area, the obvious candidates would be members of the United States armed forces stationed at RAF Menwith Hill – after all, they have been supporting the local rental market for decades. But estate agents say they tend to rent properties for between £1,000 and £2,000 per calendar month (pcm). Most tenants of more expensive properties – in Harrogate and elsewhere – actually tend to be people in the process of relocating to the area. 31 High Street, Spofforth - £340,000 They might be waiting for house prices to dip, or they may just not want to rush into buying a property in an area they don’t know very well. Their cautious approach has the added benefit that they will be “chain-free” and ready to act quickly once they eventually find a dream home in their new locale. The following three homes – all comfortably at the upper end of the market – are currently for rent in our area. Time House is one for a larger family. A semi-detached Victorian property with two-storey annexe, it stands on high ground above the village of Huby and is within walking distance of Weeton railway station. It has seven bedrooms, three bathrooms, a study, reception hall, kitchen, utility room, four reception rooms and extensive cellars. Outside, there is ample off-street parking, gardens and a seating area in the central courtyard between the main house and annexe. Here is the average cost of a house in every Harrogate neighbourhood On the southern edge of Harrogate, 17 Leadhall Road is a modern detached house with loads of extras, including energy-efficient under-floor heating system, air-source heat-pump, rainwater harvester and security alarm system. It has five bedrooms, three bathrooms, large open-plan living kitchen, utility room, pantry, study, sitting room, integral double garage and gardens. Finally, Richmond Hill in Markington is a detached period home with paddocks and stabling available by separate negotiation. It has four bedrooms – one of them with a large sun terrace leading off the en suite bathroom – house bathroom, study, breakfast kitchen utility room, laundry room and three reception rooms. Outside, there are gardens, patio, heated outdoor swimming pool and a substantial detached office building is also available by separate negotiation.