We are currently on Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 12 | In Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 11, we shifted our focus to the growing number of expat investors returning to the UK market, building on the insights from Episode 10, which explored the long-term potential of short-term lets. In this latest episode, we continue that momentum by examining the escalating interest from overseas landlords and what this trend means for advisers supporting clients in the evolving UK buy-to-let sector.
Understanding today’s buy-to-let landscape is essential for advisers who want to deliver meaningful value to professional landlords. Market conditions are shifting quickly, shaped by higher interest rates, evolving regulation and changing tenant behaviour. As the private rented sector becomes more complex, informed advice is crucial.
At Connect for Intermediaries, we see these dynamics across our broker network every day. As CEO, Liz Syms explains:
“This is a period of significant change. Advisers who understand market movement can help landlords navigate challenges and stay resilient.”
Opportunities in a Challenging Market
Recent data from the National Residential Landlords Association shows around 21 applicants per available rental property, highlighting continued pressure on supply. Planned updates to the National Planning Policy Framework, along with local authority construction targets, will take time to ease this imbalance.
Liz adds:
“Demand for rental homes remains exceptionally high. With supply constrained, rental values should hold firm and help landlords manage increasing costs.”
The new stamp duty surcharge announced in the Budget is another factor landlords must plan for. Liz notes:
“We are seeing a shift toward more professional landlords. They anticipate costs such as the surcharge, and the government’s direction suggests it wants to steady the pace of growth.”
A More Professional and Stable Sector
Regulatory updates such as EPC improvements and the Renters’ Rights Bill are encouraging landlords to adopt a more business-focused approach. These measures are likely to support a more stable market, create longer tenancy periods and reduce voids.
“Brokers should help landlords stay ahead of regulatory requirements,” says Liz. “That means reviewing portfolios, checking compliance and assessing long-term profitability.”
For advisers seeking structured support while managing regulatory change, our mortgage network for brokers offers comprehensive compliance and business development assistance.
Shifting Lending Criteria and Growing Specialist Demand
Lenders are adjusting to demand in the specialist sector. HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) remain a popular strategy, and specialist lenders continue to expand their offering. While many cap HMOs at six bedrooms, lenders such as Hampshire Trust Bank, Interbay, Market Financial Solutions and Together provide broader flexibility for professional investors.
Assisted-living properties are also gaining traction. These homes typically attract higher rents and longer-term tenants. Although mainstream lenders remain cautious, lenders including Keystone, TML and TMW are open to Housing Association tenants. For full assisted-living properties, specialist lenders such as Market Financial Solutions and Together continue to support this niche.
Liz emphasises:
“Advisers must understand which lenders operate in these specialist areas. The right knowledge can help landlords access opportunities they may not otherwise consider.”
If you support specialist or portfolio landlords, you can access guidance through our buy-to-let mortgage support for brokers.
Landlord Trends: What Advisers Should Watch
Knowledge Bank data shows lending to limited companies remains the most-searched criterion, reflecting landlords’ appetite for tax-efficient structures. Equally important is the surge in searches for first-time landlords, highlighting ongoing interest in the sector despite rising costs.
As Liz explains:
“New landlords are still entering the market. They’re realistic about current conditions and want advice that helps them invest confidently today—not based on the past.”
For additional guidance on limited company structures and strategy, see our limited company buy-to-let insights.
Why Staying Informed Matters for Advisers
With constant shifts in legislation, lending policy and landlord behaviour, advisers who stay informed can offer a deeper level of support.
Liz concludes:
“If advisers truly understand areas such as EPC rules, HMO licensing requirements and limited company structures, they will become trusted partners to their landlord clients.”
At Connect for Intermediaries, we remain committed to helping brokers stay ahead of change so they can continue providing expert guidance in a rapidly evolving buy-to-let market.
Thank you for reading our publication on “Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 12 | Your Knowledge is Crucial.” Stay “Connect“-ed for more updates soon!
FAQ | Buy-to-let
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the main focus of Buy to Let Watch Episode 12? | Buy to Let Watch Episode 12 looks at how market change, regulation and lender criteria affect professional landlords and the advisers who support them. |
| Why is the buy-to-let market changing so quickly? | Higher interest rates influence the buy-to-let market, changing government policy and shifts in tenant demand, which together are reshaping the private rented sector. |
| Why is specialist advice important for professional landlords? | Specialist mortgage advice helps landlords understand new rules, manage rising costs, choose suitable products, and structure portfolios to support long-term profitability. |
| How does high tenant demand affect landlords? | Strong tenant demand and limited rental supply support rental values, helping landlords offset higher operating costs and sustain yields in a changing market. |
| What role do new regulations play in buy-to-let? | New regulations, such as EPC standards and tenant-focused legislation, encourage landlords to run portfolios more like businesses and to plan for long-term compliance. |
| How are lenders responding to buy-to-let trends? | Lenders are updating criteria for HMOs, limited company borrowing and specialist sectors such as assisted living, giving advisers more targeted options for professional landlords. |
| Why are limited company buy-to-let mortgages so popular? | Many landlords now use limited companies to hold property, as this structure can offer tax and planning advantages, which is why limited company lending remains a top search. |
| Why should advisers keep up with buy-to-let news and criteria changes? | Advisers who stay informed about regulation, lender appetite and sector trends can give clearer guidance, build trust with landlords and identify opportunities ahead of the market. |