New research from The Mortgage Lender reveals that, in the last 12 months, more than half of buy-to-let landlords focused on expanding their property portfolios. Of the residential investors surveyed, 52% increased their property holdings, with 25% acquiring a single property and 27% adding multiple properties.

Looking forward to the next 12 months, more than half of BTL landlords plan to continue expanding, which speaks volumes about the uplift in affordability in the UK property market in 2024. Specifically, 26% intend to add a single property, while another 26% plan to add multiple properties. This positive outlook may be attributed to renewed confidence in the residential property market, as 74% expressed confidence in its prospects for the following year. Why not read more about some of the best rental yield locations in London with our free guide.

The research also dove into the motivations behind landlords’ portfolio expansions. The top reason cited was increased tenant demand, influencing 31% of landlords. Additionally, 25% of their portfolios grew due to available capital.

Residential landlords also showed a keen interest in diversifying their portfolios by exploring different property types (21%) and regions across the UK (21%) as well as some overseas property investment. Furthermore, 20% expanded their portfolios, intending to acquire a property with a better EPC rating.