Regardless of additional tax and regulatory adjustments affecting the sector, new analysis signifies that many buy-to-let buyers intend to take care of their present portfolios, with 14% planning to broaden. Amongst these seeking to purchase, “unintentional landlords” make up 42%, representing the most important single group of potential purchasers.
Carter Jonas, which has printed its 2025 Non-public Landlords Report, says improved coverage readability following the Autumn Price range factors to the potential for cautious stabilisation into 2026, alongside identifiable pockets of development and help for measures aimed toward elevating requirements and decreasing friction.
The UK-wide survey of practically 200 landlords additionally exhibits that 80% of portfolio landlords don’t count on to buy one other property within the close to time period. Regulatory complexity is cited as the most important barrier (37%), adopted by monetary viability (20%), whereas 11% say they intend to promote their whole portfolio.
Landlords are pragmatic about what would make additional funding viable. When requested what would encourage further purchases, respondents mostly pointed to reductions in Capital Good points Tax (63%) and Stamp Responsibility Land Tax (51%), together with tax aid for important upkeep (61%). Against this, 63% mentioned that decreasing the proposed Minimal Vitality Effectivity Requirements (MEES) requirement would haven’t any affect on their buy selections.
There’s additionally broad help for measures that increase requirements and scale back friction, offered they’re proportionate, clearly outlined and financially workable. In relation to the Renters’ Rights Act, the introduction of a Non-public Sector Ombudsman is seen positively by most respondents, suggesting an urge for food for a extra streamlined system that helps each landlords and tenants. Opinions are extra divided on different proposals, together with the abolition of Part 21 and tenants’ rights to request a pet, which magnetize larger ranges of scepticism. General, landlords stay cautious about regulatory change however are open to new measures that ship readability and keep funding viability.
“Unintentional landlords” function prominently amongst these planning to purchase, representing 42% of would-be purchasers. Many didn’t initially intend to grow to be long-term buyers however now see potential in increasing their portfolios. With tenant demand remaining sturdy post-pandemic and households renting for longer, the market continues to offer alternatives for landlords who decide circumstances to be beneficial.
Lisa Simon, Head of Residential at Carter Jonas, mentioned: “Landlords are cautious, however our findings present the place progress is feasible. Clear guidelines, proportionate requirements and sensible reliefs can unlock funding, notably amongst unintentional landlords who’re selecting to remain the course.
“Our survey data a cautious stance, but the route of journey is constructive. Because the Price range, readability has improved, though outcomes rely upon how coverage is utilized in apply. With rental demand sturdy and a cohort of “unintentional landlords” planning to broaden, our outlook is cautiously optimistic, offered measures stay proportionate and financially viable.”
