Private rental sector still dominated by small-scale investors
A Propertymark analysis of the latest English Private Landlord Survey has offered a snapshot of what the private rental sector looks like.
Some 45% of landlords own just one rental property, while a further 38% own two, three or four.
Only 17% own five or more properties – although these account for approaching half of all tenancies.
The existing BTL investor is ageing, too.
The median age of individual landlords is 59 with almost two-thirds aged 55 or over.
Propertymark warns that this suggests existing landlords are less likely to absorb higher taxes and may be less able to keep across fast-changing regulations.
Although most landlords were aware of high-profile reforms contained in the Renters Rights Act, only just over half were aware of tax-related changes.
Awareness of future developments – for example the Decent Homes Standard – was relatively low.
Propertymark chief executive Nathan Emerson says: “These figures show a private rented sector that’s stable in profile but still navigating uncertainty on tax and standards.
“Many landlords are committed to their properties and tenants, yet awareness gaps around legislative change signal a need for clearer guidance and engagement, and the use of regulated and professional agents.
“As debates on rental standards and tax policy continue, it’s vital to ensure that reforms recognise the diversity and motivations of landlords, particularly smaller investors who make up the backbone of the private rented sector.”
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