“A challenging situation”
Even though the buy-to-let mortgage market is showing signs of improvement, ongoing challenges could prompt existing landlords to leave the market or deter prospective landlords from investing in property altogether.
For example, changes to buy-to-let tax relief in 2020 have particularly affected landlords in higher tax brackets as many are now faced with higher tax bills on their rental profits.
Consequently, many landlords have set up buy-to-let limited companies to manage their properties in a more tax-efficient way, with more than 61,500 landlords creating limited companies in 2024, according to research from Hamptons, 23% more than in 2023.
However, even though a limited company structure could be beneficial for some landlords, this comes with its own challenges around tax, mortgages and administration.
“The cost of finance is a fundamental part of becoming a landlord, as tax changes over the years have led to a more challenging situation for investors to hit desirable profit margins,” Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, explained.
“The speculation on more changes to hit private landlords in the upcoming Budget will also lead to more concerns,” she added.
What next for landlords?
Many landlords will be looking out for any announcements that may affect them in the next Budget, which Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, confirmed would take place on Wednesday 26 November.
For example, Springall points out that landlords “who do not have buy-to-lets held in a limited company could get hit if National Insurance Contributions (NICs) are levied on pre-mortgage profits”.
If this change is confirmed, this could squeeze landlords’ profits even further and make some evaluate whether buy-to-let is still worth it.
Furthermore, the Renters’ Rights Bill, which is expected to come into effect next year, will introduce a range of new laws that landlords need to understand and implement.
One of the most significant changes is the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, which means landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without reason. While this will be a positive step for tenants as it gives them greater protection, it reduces flexibility for landlords and could make the buy-to-let market less appealing.
Also included in the Bill are rules around rent increases and a review of the Decent Homes Standard which requires landlords to ensure their properties meet specific standards.
“The path for landlords remains uncertain, as many will be struggling to keep up with legislation, which can come at a financial cost and time drain to keep up with changes,” Springall commented.
“New or existing landlords would be wise to seek advice to assess how any moves in the sector will impact them,” she suggested.