A specialist lender claims landlords are actually much more optimistic than previously thought about the future – and not many are exiting the market.

Market Financial Solutions, in a small survey of 300 landlords, says 36% are planning on expanding their portfolios in the near future and just 9% are likely to sell some or all of their investment properties. 

In addition some 43% apparently believe rental yields will improve in the coming year and another 54% expect house prices to rise. Around 39% believe prices will remain largely the same.

Surprisingly, the biggest concern for landlords is the cost of living, the Labour government and international political upheavals – the Renters Reform Bill, apparently, was only the fourth biggest worry.

A spokesperson for the lender says: “It is encouraging to see landlords expressing such confidence in the UK buy-to-let market, with many actively looking to expand their portfolios. This reflects the resilience of the sector and the continued demand for rental properties despite much speculation around landlords selling up.

“However, the risks identified in our research demonstrate the need for landlords to avoid complacency when managing their portfolios. New regulations, economic fluctuations, and affordability concerns for renters will likely all play a role in shaping landlords’ investment strategies in the months ahead.”