Landbay says 46% of landlords remain positive on business prospects Mortgage Finance Gazette

Img

Despite the challenges facing the sector, 46% of landlords remain positive about the future prospects of their buy-to-let (BTL) business and investments, Landbay reveals.

Of those who were positive the strongest sentiment was found among landlords with 11 to 20 properties, with 41% feeling optimistic.

Meanwhile, 26% of landlords with a portfolio between four to 10 properties shared the same feeling.

Respondents highlighted high occupancy rates with continued demand and strong rental yields as the main reason.

Others argued that sound management and good service will continue to separate landlords, with new regulations and tax changes impacting new entrants more than the established landlords.

While only 19% of landlords feel negative about their business, 35% remain neutral, stating general uncertainty in the market, government interference and negativity towards landlords as key concerns.

The survey also asked landlords for their thoughts on the UK economy.

Focusing on the UK economy, 44% of landlords felt positive about its future and expected it to bounce back.

Landbay managing director of intermediaries Paul Brett says: “It’s certainly encouraging to see a strong proportion of landlords remaining positive about the future prospects of both their business and the UK economy.”

“After all, landlords play a critical role in the wider housing mix in the UK, with one-in-five households in England and Wales relying on rented housing.”

“As a lender to the BTL market, we’re incredibly positive about the sector’s future and remain driven to support our customers through a diverse product range. Whilst some may still feel unsure based on the current uncertainty and government policy, there are still plenty of reasons to be optimistic.”