UK landlords remain intent on growing their portfolios in the face of ongoing market uncertainty, according to new research from property management and finance platform Lendlord.

The company’s 2025 Landlord Sentiment Survey, based on responses from a broad cross-section of landlords, found that 70% plan to acquire, refinance or refurbish properties over the next year. The findings suggest that while landlords are taking a more measured approach, they are not stepping back from investment altogether.

Indeed, 41.9% of respondents said they had adopted a more cautious strategy over the past six months, reflecting the influence of higher mortgage costs and impending legislative changes. Yet more than half (51.8%) rated their market optimism at 4 or 5 out of 5, pointing to a prevailing mood of resilience and long-term confidence.

Expectations on house prices were similarly optimistic, with nearly 60% predicting a slight increase over the next 12 months. Many landlords are pursuing strategies aimed at adding value and releasing equity, with 29% identifying BRRR – buy, refurbish, refinance, rent – as their primary investment approach.

Concern over regulation remains widespread. Two-thirds (67%) of landlords expressed unease about the Renters Reform Bill, which is expected to bring significant changes to tenancy agreements and eviction rules. Even so, just over 42% said they felt confident in being able to access appropriate mortgage finance, highlighting a relatively stable lending environment compared to the volatility seen in late 2022 and early 2023.

The survey also revealed a growing appetite for digital transformation within the sector. More than half of respondents (56%) reported using digital tools or AI at least occasionally to manage their portfolios. Landlords are increasingly turning to platforms like Lendlord for help with portfolio oversight, yield analysis and access to digital lending options.

Aviram Shahar, co-founder and chief executive of Lendlord, said the results reflect a pragmatic and adaptable landlord base.

“Despite the headlines, landlords are not retreating from the market – they’re adapting,” he said. “The sentiment is cautious, yes, but it’s also clear-eyed and pragmatic.

“Landlords are still finding ways to invest, recycle capital and manage their portfolios efficiently. What they need is support in making confident decisions, whether that’s running the numbers on a refurbishment or understanding how regulation might affect them.

“Our aim at Lendlord is to provide that clarity, through better insights, better tools and better finance options.”

The full Lendlord Landlord Sentiment Survey 2025 is available at: https://lendlord.io/uk-landlord-sentiment-survey-2025.