In a recent survey by Landbay, 44% of landlords expressed plans to acquire new property within the next year, marking a notable increase from the 32% recorded in the previous year’s survey. This shift highlights a growing confidence among property investors.
The survey found that the primary motivation for more than 60% of these landlords is to expand their property portfolios. Additionally, 31% cited the rising number of tenants as a key factor, up from 26% in the last survey. A smaller group, 12%, indicated their decision was influenced by anticipated declines in house prices.
One landlord, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared their perspective: “I think we may see an increase in house prices. I am building my property portfolio.”
The majority of prospective buyers are portfolio landlords, with 40% owning 11 or more properties and 42% holding between four and ten. However, smaller landlords are also active in the market, with 19% owning one to three properties.
Regionally, landlord interest varies. In the South East, 28% intend to buy, compared to just 13% in London. Confidence levels in the Midlands, East of England, and the North are similar, with nearly a quarter of landlords in each region planning purchases.
Undecided landlords have decreased to 16%, down from a quarter in the previous survey. Meanwhile, 40% are not looking to buy, and just under 30% are considering selling properties over the next year, citing concerns over mortgage interest rate fluctuations, tenant eviction challenges, and landlord taxation.
Rob Stanton, Landbay’s sales and distribution director, commented: “Despite the various pressures faced by landlords, there is still an appetite for further house purchases. The increase demonstrates the continued attractiveness of buy-to-let as a long-term investment strategy, supported by the strong demand for rental properties. We are committed to providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of both landlords and brokers. By combining a growing appetite for investment with our expanding product range, Landbay is well-positioned to support the continued growth of the buy-to-let sector.”