Landlord confidence is showing signs of recovery, even as regulatory change continues to reshape the buy-to-let landscape. With the Renters’ Rights Act now in focus and EPC requirements on the horizon, brokers play a key role in helping clients navigate shifting expectations and identify sustainable investment opportunities.
Jodi Spreadbury, Senior Mortgage and Protection Broker at The Mortgage Broker, shares her perspective on how the market is evolving and what this could mean for those advising property investors.
Jodi Spreadbury, Senior Mortgage and Protection Broker, at The Mortgage Broker, said:
“The Renters’ Rights Act (RRA) changes are clear, easy to understand, and aren’t putting off brand-new or more experienced landlords. No one wants a ‘bad’ investment. That’s why securing both quality properties and responsible tenants is crucial. The RRA supports this by protecting tenants’ rights while encouraging landlords to maintain well-cared-for homes.
One of the key features of the RRA is the banning of no-fault evictions. However, if a tenant takes care of the property and pays their rent on time, these evictions should rarely be necessary. Landlords typically choose to sell their properties only when the investment no longer fits their financial plans or objectives, not arbitrarily. The introduction of annual rent reviews brings transparency and certainty for both landlords and tenants.
We experienced a lull in landlord activity in recent years, but over the past 18 months, the buy-to-let market has become a prominent topic of interest again. With a more consistent market and growing confidence, property investment is once again attracting attention. The sector has navigated various tax changes, tenancy reforms, now fully confirmed and implemented, and more stable interest rates. Overall, confidence in the market remains high.
Investing in property is not a decision people take lightly. Typically, investors are professionals with substantial savings looking for a strong, reliable investment. Property remains a straightforward asset: rental yields are transparent, and the investment’s performance is clear.
With stricter Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations on the horizon, some landlords are instead prioritising improving their existing properties to meet the new standards rather than acquiring further stock.
In this evolving landscape, landlords should focus on acquiring and maintaining quality properties with high EPC ratings to comply with regulations and attract reliable, long-term tenants. As confidence grows, now is an excellent time to explore investment opportunities. We are ready to support landlords, new or experienced, with expert mortgage advice tailored to their individual circumstances, helping them navigate the changing market and capitalise on these opportunities.”