Landlords are increasing their property portfolios at a faster rate this year, with new figures showing they purchased an average of 2.5 properties each in 2025—up from 2.2 the previous year. This also surpasses the 2.3-property average among those selling during the same period.
The findings come from a new survey by the TDS Charitable Foundation, which polled more than 2,000 private landlords across England. The data suggests a potential shift in the private rental market, with rising supply and signs of easing pressure on tenants.
According to the foundation, 56% of landlords reported raising rents over the past 12 months—a decrease from 61% the previous year. This moderation is mirrored in tenant experiences, with 32% of private renters now saying they are struggling to afford their rent, down from 35% last year.
Among full-time students, the situation appears to have improved more markedly. The proportion of student tenants reporting rent-related financial difficulties dropped from 45% to 32% over the same period.
Figures from the Office for National Statistics support the trend, showing that rental price growth is slowing. Across the UK, rents rose by an average of 6.7% in the year to June 2025, down from a peak of 9.1% recorded in the year to March 2024.
Despite signs of relief, TDS Group chief executive and trustee of the TDS Charitable Foundation warned that many tenants continue to face affordability challenges.
“Whilst cost pressures in the sector might be easing, many tenants are continuing to struggle to afford their rents,” he said. “Measures in the Renters’ Rights Bill to help tenants challenge unreasonable rent increases will count for nothing unless they are equipped with the information and tools they need to exercise these rights effectively.”
He also pointed to the ongoing freeze in housing benefit rates as a key issue, saying that many low-income tenants remain under significant financial strain.
The latest data offers a mixed picture for the private rental sector—suggesting improving conditions for some tenants, but highlighting persistent challenges for others as the market continues to evolve.