The buy-to-let market has flourished of late, with an increasing number of related mortgages being released by providers.

According to new research from Moneyfacts, the amount of buy-to-let home loans currently available is standing at its highest level since the beginning of the economic crisis.

The study showed there are now 486 such agreements to choose from for landlords - a significant escalation on the 243 deals reported just two years earlier.

Louise Holmes, spokeswoman at Moneyfacts, noted the onset of the recession saw the number of buy-to-let options dwindle, adding: "Many aspiring homeowners have had their property dreams dashed due to strict lending criteria and large deposits, meaning the only option left is to rent."

The industry figure added the latest findings should make pleasant reading for both landlords and property investors.

Last month, the Halifax Buying Versus Renting Review revealed buying a dwelling is more cost-effective than renting in the current climate.