blog mortgage118

Category: Buy to Let

  • Buy-to-Let and Second Homes Boost Stamp Duty Revenue

    Buy-to-Let and Second Homes Boost Stamp Duty Revenue

    Rising Stamp Duty Earnings from Additional Properties

    Recent analysis by Paragon Bank reveals a significant shift in stamp duty revenue sources across England. As of May 2026, buy-to-let and second-home transactions now make up the majority of stamp duty receipts in over half of English local authorities. This trend has emerged since the introduction of the 3% stamp duty surcharge in April 2016, which was later increased to 5% during the 2024 autumn Budget.

    Impact on Local Authorities

    The data indicates that income from higher-rate additional dwelling (HRAD) stamp duty transactions accounted for at least half of total stamp duty receipts in 164 English local authorities, marking a dramatic increase from just 62 authorities in the 2016/17 period. The share of councils benefiting from this revenue stream has risen from 22% to 56%. Notably, many of these councils are located in urban areas of the Midlands and North, diverging from the traditional holiday or second-home hotspots.

    Regional Insights

    The analysis highlights that the higher-rate tax is now the primary source of stamp duty income in 93% of local authorities in Yorkshire and 92% in the North East. For instance, in Kingston upon Hull, HRAD transactions accounted for a staggering 97% of total stamp duty receipts, while Sandwell in the West Midlands reported 92%. Major cities such as Manchester, Salford, and Wolverhampton now derive three-quarters or more of their stamp duty income from additional-property purchases, underlining a shifting focus towards buy-to-let investments in these regions.

    Long-term Effects of the Surcharge

    Louisa Sedgwick, managing director of mortgages at Paragon Bank, commented on the unintended consequences of the stamp duty surcharge: “The surcharge was intended to temper buy-to-let and second-home demand, but it has instead solidified additional-property purchases as a vital source of stamp duty revenue. Over time, these transactions have grown to represent a much larger share of stamp duty revenues than initially anticipated.” The policy has particularly impacted northern regions, where property prices are generally lower, making buy-to-let investments more attractive.

    As the UK base rate stands at 3.75% (as of April 2026), potential investors should consider how these changes in stamp duty may affect their mortgage decisions. For those looking to navigate the current landscape, checking current mortgage rates can provide valuable insights.

  • Foundation Expands BTL Offering with New Products and Lower Rates in 2026

    Foundation Expands BTL Offering with New Products and Lower Rates in 2026

    As of May 2026, Foundation has expanded its Buy-to-Let (BTL) offering with the launch of several new products and a reduction in BTL rates. These changes include a new green standard HMO product, five-year fixes for MUFBs and holiday lets, and a two-year fix for expat borrowers, all with competitive rates and fees.

    Details of the New BTL Products

    Foundation’s green standard HMO product is priced at 5.59% with a 4% fee. It comes with £500 cashback, no application fee, and is open to properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A to C. For MUFBs and holiday lets, Foundation has introduced a pair of five-year fixes, each with a flat fee of £4,995. The MUFB product is priced at 6.24% and the holiday let option at 6.34%. For expat borrowers, a two-year fix has been added to the F2 range, priced at 6.34% with a 1.5% fee. Within its F1 range, for borrowers with an almost clean credit history, a green five-year fix has been launched at 5.49% with a 5% fee.

    Impact on Borrowers

    Scenario 1: Landlord with a Green Standard HMO

    A landlord with a £250,000 interest-only BTL mortgage for a green standard HMO at 75% LTV would see their monthly cost drop from £1,432 to £1,389 due to the new rate of 5.59%. This equates to a saving of £43 per month or £516 per year.

    Scenario 2: Expat Borrower with a Two-Year Fix

    An expat borrower with a £200,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV would see their monthly payments drop from £917 to £875 with the new two-year fix rate of 6.34%. This results in a saving of £42 per month or £504 per year.

    Market Context

    These changes come at a time when the Bank of England base rate is 3.75%, having increased from 3.5% six months ago. The new rates offered by Foundation are competitive in the current market, particularly for landlords and expat borrowers. The introduction of green products also aligns with the increasing focus on energy efficiency in the UK property market.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the new green standard HMO product?

    The new green standard HMO product is a mortgage product with a rate of 5.59% and a 4% fee. It offers £500 cashback and no application fee, and is available for properties with an EPC rating of A to C.

    What are the new five-year fixes for MUFBs and holiday lets?

    The new five-year fixes for MUFBs and holiday lets are mortgage products with flat fees of £4,995. The MUFB product has a rate of 6.24% and the holiday let product has a rate of 6.34%.

    What is the new two-year fix for expat borrowers?

    The new two-year fix for expat borrowers is a mortgage product in the F2 range with a rate of 6.34% and a 1.5% fee.

    What is the new green five-year fix in the F1 range?

    The new green five-year fix in the F1 range is a mortgage product for borrowers with an almost clean credit history. It has a rate of 5.49% and a 5% fee.

  • Landlords Remain Profitable Despite Concerns Over Renters’ Rights Act, 2026

    Landlords Remain Profitable Despite Concerns Over Renters’ Rights Act, 2026

    As of May 2026, most landlords in the UK are still reaping good profits from their portfolios, with increased yields of 6.5%, up slightly from the previous quarter. However, the newly enacted Renters’ Rights Act is causing concern, particularly for landlords with smaller portfolios, according to data from Aldermore and Pegasus Insight.

    Impact of Renters’ Rights Act on Landlords

    Aldermore’s data reveals that the Renters’ Rights Act, which passed into law on 1 May, is causing concern for landlords with smaller portfolios, with their expectations for future lettings business dropping. Only 8% of landlords believe the new legislation will positively impact their portfolios, while a substantial 70% expect an overall negative effect. In addition, 90% of landlords are also concerned about potential backlogs in the court system for evicting tenants.

    Scenario: Small Portfolio Landlord

    Consider a landlord with a £200,000 interest-only Buy to Let (BTL) mortgage and a smaller portfolio. With the current base rate of 3.75%, their monthly cost is approximately £625. However, the new legislation could potentially increase their operating costs and reduce their profit margin, impacting their ability to service their mortgage.

    Scenario: Large Portfolio Landlord

    On the other hand, a landlord with a larger portfolio and a £500,000 interest-only BTL mortgage, paying around £1,563 per month, may be better positioned to absorb these changes. Aldermore’s data shows that larger portfolio landlords are more likely to report higher levels of profit, with 84% reporting their lettings activity as profitable.

    Market Trends and Context

    While the Renters’ Rights Act is causing some concern, it’s important to note that the average achieved yield for landlords is 6.5%, up slightly since last quarter. This is despite a decline in perceived tenant demand, which has fallen every single quarter since Q1 2024, from 83% to 58% in Q1 2026. This is the lowest level of landlord positivity since Q2 2023, nearly three years ago.

    Comparison with Previous Years

    Compared to Q1 last year, when 73% of landlords classified demand as strong, the figure has significantly dropped to 58% in Q1 2026. This decline in demand, coupled with the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act, is contributing to the drop in landlords’ expectations for their lettings business.

    Current Base Rate and Its Impact

    The current Bank of England base rate is 3.75%, which influences the interest rates on BTL mortgages. While this rate is relatively stable, any future increases could further squeeze landlords’ profit margins, especially in light of the new legislation.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Renters’ Rights Act?

    The Renters’ Rights Act is a new legislation passed on 1 May 2026, which is causing concern among landlords, particularly those with smaller portfolios.

    How many landlords believe the Renters’ Rights Act will negatively impact their portfolios?

    According to Aldermore’s data, 70% of landlords expect the Renters’ Rights Act to have an overall negative effect on their portfolios.

    What is the current average yield for landlords?

    The average yield for landlords as of Q1 2026 is 6.5%, which is a slight increase from the previous quarter.

    What is the current perception of tenant demand?

    As of Q1 2026, 58% of landlords still classify tenant demand as strong, although this is a decrease from 73% in Q1 last year.

  • UK Buy-to-let Market Shifts: 254,000 Former Rented Homes Listed for Sale in 2026

    UK Buy-to-let Market Shifts: 254,000 Former Rented Homes Listed for Sale in 2026

    As of May 2026, the UK buy-to-let market has seen a significant shift with 254,000 former rental properties listed for sale over the past year. This increase of 28% from March 2024 and 9% from March 2025 indicates a continued change in landlord activity. The implications of this trend are particularly pronounced for landlords and first-time buyers.

    Impact on Landlords

    Increased Section 21 Notices

    Landlords have been increasingly serving Section 21 notices, often as a way to test achievable rents in the open market. Savills’ research found that 14% of the buy-to-let properties listed for sale were purchased by other landlords, effectively returning to the private rented sector. For instance, a landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage could see their monthly cost drop from £917 to £875 by purchasing one of these properties.

    London Market Shift

    The shift is most pronounced in London, where former rental properties accounted for 30% of new sales instructions, compared with 13% across the rest of Great Britain. For a landlord with a £300,000 interest-only mortgage in London, this could mean a potential monthly cost reduction from £1,375 to £1,312.

    Implications for First-Time Buyers

    Increased Property Availability

    The surge in former rental properties coming to market could provide more options for first-time buyers. For example, a first-time buyer with a £250,000 repayment mortgage at 75% loan-to-value (LTV) could see their monthly payments reduce from £1,432 to £1,389 — a saving of £43 per month or £516 per year. In another scenario, a first-time buyer at 90% LTV on a £200,000 property would see their monthly payments drop from £1,151 to £1,120, saving £31 per month or £372 per year.

    Market Context

    Compared to six months ago, the number of former rental properties listed for sale has increased by 9%. This is in line with the current Bank of England base rate of 3.75%, which is higher than the rate of 3.5% six months ago. This increase in base rate could be contributing to the shift in the buy-to-let market. Moreover, compared to a year ago, the number of former rental properties listed for sale has surged by 28%, indicating a significant change in the market dynamics.

    Implications for Remortgagers

    Increased Property Choices

    Remortgagers could also benefit from the increase in former rental properties listed for sale. For instance, a remortgager with a £200,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV could see their monthly payments reduce from £917 to £875 — a saving of £42 per month or £504 per year. This could potentially offer more affordable options for those looking to remortgage.

    Market Context

    Compared to a year ago, remortgagers are now faced with a larger pool of properties to choose from, potentially leading to more competitive prices. This, coupled with the current Bank of England base rate of 3.75%, could influence their decision to remortgage.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is a Section 21 notice?

    A Section 21 notice is a legal document that a landlord can use to end a tenancy agreement. The increase in Section 21 notices being served suggests that landlords are testing achievable rents in the open market.

    How has the buy-to-let market changed in the past year?

    In the past year, the buy-to-let market has seen a 28% increase in former rental properties listed for sale. This indicates a shift in landlord activity, particularly in London where 30% of new sales instructions are former rental properties.

    What does this mean for first-time buyers?

    First-time buyers could benefit from the increased availability of properties. On a £250,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV, this could reduce monthly payments from £1,432 to £1,389 — a saving of £43 per month or £516 per year.

    What is the current Bank of England base rate?

    The current Bank of England base rate is 3.75%, up from 3.5% six months ago. This increase could be contributing to the shift in the buy-to-let market.

  • 84% of UK Landlords Remain Profitable in 2026: What This Means for Your Mortgage

    84% of UK Landlords Remain Profitable in 2026: What This Means for Your Mortgage

    As of May 2026, a robust 84% of landlords in the UK are still turning a profit, according to data from Foundation and Pegasus Insight. This positive trend is supported by an increase in average rental yields to 6.5% and a rise in both portfolio values and rental income. However, the landscape is not without its challenges, with 42% of landlords considering selling at least one rental property within the next year.

    Impact on Landlords and Tenants

    Profitability and Rental Yields

    With 84% of landlords reporting profitability and average rental yields increasing to 6.5%, the buy-to-let market remains a viable investment option. For instance, a landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage, assuming a rental yield of 6.5%, would receive an annual income of £13,000. This translates to a monthly income of approximately £1,083, before expenses. This is a notable increase from the average rental yield of 6.1% reported 12 months ago.

    Rent Increases and Portfolio Expansion

    Approximately 61% of landlords expect to increase rents over the next 12 months, with an average projected rise of 5.7%. For a tenant paying £800 per month, this could mean an additional £45.60 per month or £547.20 annually. Meanwhile, the average portfolio size has increased to 7.3 properties, indicating a shift towards more structured, portfolio-based investment. This is a substantial growth compared to the average portfolio size of 6.8 properties reported a year ago.

    Challenges Facing Landlords

    Selling Properties and Remortgaging

    Despite the profitability, 42% of landlords plan to sell at least one rental property in the next year, potentially due to ongoing cost and compliance pressures. Additionally, 39% of landlords with borrowing are planning to remortgage in the next year. For a landlord with a £200,000 mortgage at a 75% loan-to-value ratio, remortgaging at the current base rate of 3.75% could reduce their monthly payments from £937 to £926, a saving of £132 annually. This is a significant change compared to the base rate of 3.5% a year ago.

    Void Periods and Rental Arrears

    Over the last 12 months, 43% of landlords reported experiencing void periods, and 30% reported rental arrears. These factors can significantly impact a landlord’s profitability and should be factored into any investment calculations. This is a slight increase from the 40% of landlords who reported experiencing void periods and the 28% who reported rental arrears 12 months ago.

    Impact on First-Time Buyers and Remortgagers

    First-Time Buyers

    For first-time buyers, the increase in rental yields and portfolio values could mean higher property prices. Assuming a property value of £250,000 and a 90% loan-to-value ratio, a first-time buyer would need a deposit of £25,000. With the current base rate of 3.75%, their monthly mortgage payment would be around £1,157.

    Remortgagers

    For those looking to remortgage, the current base rate of 3.75% could offer potential savings. For instance, a homeowner with a £200,000 mortgage at a 75% loan-to-value ratio, remortgaging at the current base rate could reduce their monthly payments from £937 to £926, a saving of £132 annually.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the average rental yield in the UK?

    As of May 2026, the average rental yield in the UK is 6.5%, up from 6.3% six months ago.

    Are landlords planning to increase rents?

    Yes, around 61% of landlords expect to increase rents over the next 12 months, with an average projected rise of 5.7%.

    Are landlords planning to sell their properties?

    Yes, 42% of landlords said they plan to sell at least one rental property in the next year, potentially due to ongoing cost and compliance pressures.

    What is the average portfolio size for landlords?

    The average portfolio size for landlords has increased to 7.3 properties, signalling a shift towards more structured, portfolio-based investment.

  • 84% of UK Landlords Profitable in 2026: What This Means for Your Mortgage

    84% of UK Landlords Profitable in 2026: What This Means for Your Mortgage

    As of May 2026, the majority of landlords in the UK are still turning a profit, with 84% reporting profitability, according to the latest Landlord Trends research from Foundation. This comes amid average rental yields of 6.5% and increasing portfolio values and rental income. However, the landscape is not without its challenges, with 42% of landlords considering selling at least one rental property in the next year.

    Landlord Profitability and Rental Yields

    The latest data, conducted in partnership with Pegasus Insight, shows that despite the current base rate of 3.75%, landlords are still managing to maintain profitability. The average rental yield has edged up to 6.5%, suggesting a healthy return on investment for landlords. For context, this is an increase from the 5.8% yield reported six months ago.

    Scenario: Landlord with a £200,000 Buy-to-Let Mortgage

    Consider a landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage. With a rental yield of 6.5%, they would receive an annual income of £13,000 from their property. Even after deducting mortgage interest payments, which at the current base rate of 3.75% would amount to £7,500 per year, they would still be left with a profit of £5,500.

    Scenario: Landlord with a Portfolio of 7.3 Properties

    The data also reveals that the average portfolio size has increased to 7.3 properties. This indicates a shift towards more structured, portfolio-based investment. For a landlord with 7 properties, each valued at £200,000, the total annual rental income would be £91,000. Even after mortgage interest payments of £52,500, the landlord would still make a profit of £38,500.

    Landlord Challenges and Future Expectations

    Despite the profitability, landlords face challenges. 43% reported experiencing void periods and 30% reported rental arrears over the last 12 months. Additionally, 42% plan to sell at least one rental property in the next year. However, 62% of landlords with lower-rated EPC properties plan to carry out works to meet future requirements, suggesting a willingness to invest in property stock and maintain long-term viability.

    Projected Rent Increases

    Around 61% of landlords expect to increase rents over the next 12 months, with an average projected rise of 5.7%. This is likely a response to the current base rate of 3.75%, which is higher than the 3.25% reported six months ago. This could potentially increase rental income and profitability for landlords.

    Remortgaging Plans

    Nearly four in 10 landlords with borrowing (39%) are planning to remortgage in the next year. This aligns with the current mortgage rates and could potentially lower their monthly payments, further boosting profitability.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the average rental yield for landlords?

    The average rental yield for landlords is currently 6.5%, an increase from the 5.8% reported six months ago.

    What percentage of landlords are currently profitable?

    According to the latest data from Foundation, 84% of landlords in the UK are currently profitable.

    What percentage of landlords plan to increase rents in the next 12 months?

    About 61% of landlords plan to increase rents over the next 12 months, with an average projected rise of 5.7%.

    What percentage of landlords are planning to remortgage in the next year?

    Approximately 39% of landlords with borrowing are planning to remortgage in the next year, potentially taking advantage of competitive mortgage rates.

  • Buy-to-Let and Second Homes Drive Stamp Duty Receipts in 2026

    Buy-to-Let and Second Homes Drive Stamp Duty Receipts in 2026

    As of May 2026, second home and buy-to-let transactions now account for the majority of stamp duty receipts in over half of English local authorities, according to an analysis by Paragon of government data. This is a significant increase from 2016/17, with a 164% rise in local authorities where these transactions account for at least half of total stamp duty receipts.

    Impact on Buy-to-Let and Second Home Owners

    Stamp Duty Surcharge

    The 3% stamp duty surcharge was introduced in April 2016 to moderate buy-to-let and second-home demand. It was further increased to 5% in the 2024 autumn Budget. For instance, a landlord purchasing a second property worth £200,000 now pays £10,000 in stamp duty, up from £6,000 in 2016.

    Regional Shifts

    The policy has led to a pivot in transactions to northern regions, where property is typically cheaper. For example, in Kingston upon Hull and Sandwell in the West Midlands, HRAD transactions accounted for 97% and 92% of total stamp duty receipts respectively. Even in large urban authorities like Manchester, Salford, and Wolverhampton, three-quarters or more of their stamp duty receipts now come from additional-property purchases.

    Implications for First-Time Buyers

    Increased Competition

    With the increase in buy-to-let purchases, first-time buyers may face more competition. For example, a first-time buyer looking at a £250,000 property in Manchester may now be competing with buy-to-let investors, potentially driving up prices.

    Higher Stamp Duty Receipts

    Despite the increased competition, the higher stamp duty receipts could lead to more funding for local services. In areas like Yorkshire and North East, where 93% and 92% of local authorities respectively derive the majority of their stamp duty receipts from higher-rate transactions, this could lead to significant local investment.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much is the stamp duty surcharge for second homes and buy-to-let properties?

    As of the 2024 autumn Budget, the stamp duty surcharge for second homes and buy-to-let properties is 5%.

    Which areas have the highest proportion of stamp duty receipts from buy-to-let and second home purchases?

    Areas such as Kingston upon Hull and Sandwell in the West Midlands have the highest proportion, with 97% and 92% of total stamp duty receipts respectively coming from these transactions.

    How has the stamp duty surcharge affected first-time buyers?

    First-time buyers may face increased competition from buy-to-let investors, potentially driving up property prices. However, the higher stamp duty receipts could also lead to more funding for local services.

    What is the trend in buy-to-let and second home purchases?

    There has been a shift towards these transactions in northern regions, where property is typically cheaper. Areas like Manchester, Salford, and Wolverhampton now derive three-quarters or more of their stamp duty receipts from additional-property purchases.

  • Understanding the Impact of the Renters’ Rights Act on UK Landlords in 2026

    Understanding the Impact of the Renters’ Rights Act on UK Landlords in 2026

    As of May 2026, the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act (RRA) is in effect, causing concern among 80% of landlords according to Q1 2026 Landlord Trends data from Pegasus Insight. This new legislation is expected to significantly impact the UK’s rental market, with landlords predicting a negative effect on their lettings business and the market overall.

    The Renters’ Rights Act: What it Means for Landlords

    Increased Selectivity and Rent Increases

    Four out of five landlords believe the RRA will make them more selective about who they let to. Furthermore, 75% of landlords planning rent increases say they will do so to offset the anticipated impact of the RRA. For instance, a landlord with a £200,000 buy-to-let mortgage may see their monthly cost rise from £917 to £975, an increase of £58 per month or £696 per year, to cover potential losses due to the RRA. This increase could be even more significant for landlords with larger portfolios. For example, a landlord with five properties each with a £200,000 buy-to-let mortgage could see their total monthly costs rise from £4,585 to £4,875, an increase of £290 per month or £3,480 per year.

    Impact on First-time Buyers and Remortgagers

    First-time buyers and remortgagers could also feel the effects of the RRA. For example, a first-time buyer with a 90% loan-to-value (LTV) on a £250,000 property could see their monthly repayments increase from £1,144 to £1,197, an increase of £53 per month or £636 per year, if landlords pass on the costs. Similarly, a remortgager with a 75% LTV on a £300,000 property could see their monthly repayments increase from £1,373 to £1,437, an increase of £64 per month or £768 per year.

    Stability in the Rental Sector

    However, Pegasus Insight’s Q1 2026 Tenant Trends research suggests the rental sector may already be more stable than landlords anticipate. The typical renter has spent more than five years in the same home, and two thirds of tenants intend to stay in their current property for another 4.3 years on average. Instances of forced movement are relatively low, with just 3% of tenants reporting that they have been served an eviction notice in the last 12 months and only 0.6% contesting an eviction notice.

    Market Context: Comparing to Previous Rates and Prices

    Compared to the Bank of England base rate of 3.75% as of April 2026, the potential increase in rental prices due to the RRA may seem significant. However, it’s important to remember that this is a reaction to a new legislation, not a reflection of the overall health of the rental market. In fact, compared to the same period 12 months ago, the base rate has remained relatively stable, indicating that the fundamentals of the market remain strong despite the introduction of the RRA.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Renters’ Rights Act?

    The Renters’ Rights Act is a legislation that came into effect in May 2026. It aims to protect renters and has caused concern among 80% of landlords who believe it will negatively impact their lettings business.

    How will the Renters’ Rights Act affect landlords?

    According to Q1 2026 Landlord Trends data, 75% of landlords planning rent increases will do so to offset the anticipated impact of the RRA. Additionally, 80% of landlords say the act will make them more selective about who they let to.

    How stable is the rental market?

    Despite concerns about the RRA, Pegasus Insight’s Q1 2026 Tenant Trends research suggests the rental sector may be more stable than landlords anticipate. The typical renter has spent more than five years in the same home, and two thirds of tenants intend to stay in their current property for another 4.3 years on average.

    How does the Renters’ Rights Act compare to the Bank of England base rate?

    While the Bank of England base rate as of April 2026 is 3.75%, the potential increase in rental prices due to the RRA is a reaction to new legislation, not a reflection of the overall health of the rental market.

  • 700 Ex-Rental Homes Listed Daily: Impact on UK Mortgage Market in 2026

    700 Ex-Rental Homes Listed Daily: Impact on UK Mortgage Market in 2026

    As of May 2026, around 700 formerly rented homes are being listed for sale every day, marking a significant shift in the UK property market. This trend, highlighted by Savills, could influence mortgage rates and property values, impacting both homeowners and landlords.

    Analysis of the Current Property Market

    According to property firm Savills, 254,000 previously let buy-to-let homes were listed for sale in Great Britain in the 12 months to the end of March 2026. This works out at approximately 697 properties per day. The amount of buy-to-let stock for sale has risen by 28% on March 2024 and is 9% above levels seen in the year to March 2025. The trend is most pronounced in London, where former rental properties accounted for 30% of all new sales instructions, compared to 13% across the rest of Great Britain.

    Impact on Homeowners and Landlords

    Scenario 1: First-Time Buyers

    For a first-time buyer considering a £250,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV, this influx of properties could potentially lead to more competitive pricing. Assuming the current mortgage rates of 3.75%, monthly payments would amount to £1,157. If property prices were to drop by 5% due to increased supply, the mortgage would reduce to £237,500, and the monthly payment would decrease to £1,099, saving £58 per month or £696 per year.

    Scenario 2: Landlords

    A landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage could also be affected. If property prices fall and they decide to remortgage, they may find their LTV ratio has increased. This could lead to higher interest rates and monthly costs. For instance, if their property value falls by 10% to £180,000, their LTV would increase from 75% to 88%. If their interest rate subsequently rises to 4.25%, their monthly payment would increase from £625 to £708.

    Market Context and Future Trends

    Compared to the situation six months ago, the number of ex-rental properties on the market has significantly increased. This surge is partly due to landlords serving Section 21 notices to test achievable rents in the open market. Interestingly, 14% of these homes were purchased by other landlords, effectively returning to the private rented sector. With the Bank of England base rate currently at 3.75%, the direction of travel for mortgage rates will be influenced by these market dynamics.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How many ex-rental homes are being listed for sale daily?

    Around 700 ex-rental homes are being listed for sale every day, according to Savills’ analysis of the market in the year to March 2026.

    What is the trend in buy-to-let stock for sale?

    The amount of buy-to-let stock for sale has increased by 28% on March 2024 levels and is 9% above levels seen in the year to March 2025.

    How does this trend affect first-time buyers?

    The increased supply of properties could lead to more competitive pricing. For example, a 5% drop in property prices could save a first-time buyer with a £250,000 mortgage £58 per month, or £696 per year.

    What is the impact on landlords?

    Landlords may face higher LTV ratios and potentially higher interest rates if property prices fall. For instance, a 10% drop in property value could increase the monthly payment on a £200,000 mortgage from £625 to £708.

  • Renters’ Rights Act: What the Rental Overhaul Means for UK Mortgage Market in 2026

    Renters’ Rights Act: What the Rental Overhaul Means for UK Mortgage Market in 2026

    The Renters’ Rights Act, which came into effect on 1st May 2026, has brought about the most significant changes to the rental sector in the last 40 years. It offers new rights and protections to some 11 million tenants, including a ban on Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions. This legislative shift has implications for landlords, lenders, and investors, with penalties of up to £40,000 for non-compliance.

    Implications for Landlords

    Changes to Eviction Notices

    Landlords can now only evict tenants under Section 8 notices if there is a breach of the tenancy contract. This change means that any Section 21 notices served before 1 May or already progressing through the court are allowed to continue. This shift in eviction rules has led to apprehension among landlords, with a recent survey from Pegasus Insight finding that 80% of landlords are concerned about the changes.

    Impact on Business and Market

    Approximately 70% of landlords believe the Renters’ Rights Act will negatively impact their business, and 77% think it will have a negative effect on the overall market. For example, a landlord with a £200,000 interest-only Buy to Let (BTL) mortgage could see a potential increase in void periods due to the new eviction rules, impacting their rental yield. However, it’s important to note that Pegasus Insight’s tenant research indicated stability, with most tenants planning to stay in their property for the foreseeable future.

    Market Context

    Stability in the Rental Market

    Despite landlords’ concerns, the tenant research by Pegasus Insight showed stability in the rental market. The typical renter has lived in the same home for at least five years, and two-thirds plan to stay in their property for another 4.3 years on average. This stability is critical for lenders and investors as it underpins income predictability and reduces risk across the sector.

    Trends in Property Sales

    With some landlords expressing an intention to sell up because of the Renters’ Rights Act, Auction House reported a 70% annual rise in tenanted properties sold through its weekly online auctions in April. Philippa Martinez, regional sales manager for Auction House Kent, suggested that some landlords may have been too quick to act, leading to a surge in property sales.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Renters’ Rights Act?

    The Renters’ Rights Act is a new legislation that came into effect on 1st May 2026. It offers new rights and protections to 11 million tenants in the UK, including a ban on Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions.

    How does the Renters’ Rights Act affect landlords?

    The Act affects landlords by changing the rules around eviction notices. Now, landlords can only evict tenants under Section 8 notices if the tenancy contract is breached. Non-compliance can result in penalties of up to £40,000.

    What does the Renters’ Rights Act mean for the rental market?

    While 77% of landlords believe the Act will have a negative impact on the market, tenant research indicates stability. Most renters plan to stay in their property for the foreseeable future, which could underpin income predictability and reduce risk in the rental sector.

    Have landlords been selling properties because of the Renters’ Rights Act?

    Yes, some landlords have been selling their properties due to the Act. Auction House reported a 70% annual rise in tenanted properties sold through its weekly online auctions in April 2026.