The cost of living crisis has significantly strained household finances, making property investment less accessible and more challenging. High borrowing costs and elevated house prices have limited affordability, but with interest rates on a downward path, there are signs of recovery. Improving economic conditions offer a glimmer of hope, potentially encouraging renewed confidence among investors.
The primary threat to the market lies in ongoing regulatory and tax pressures. Stricter rules for landlords, such as the proposed Renters’ Rights Bill, and higher stamp duty and capital gains tax rates, are increasing the financial burden on investors. Combined with lingering affordability issues, these challenges risk deterring potential buyers and constraining market growth.
Amid these challenges, younger generations’ interest in property investment presents an opportunity for growth. By offering indirect investment options or tailored guidance on affordability, providers can bridge the gap for some of these young investors. This approach should enable greater participation, broadening access to property markets.
This report looks at the following areas:
- The short-, medium- and long-term impact of the economic climate on buy-to-let lending.
- Ownership of rental properties and consideration of property investment.
- Reasons for investing in property, alongside concerns about investing in property.
- Consumer attitudes towards investing in property, including perspectives on property prices, rules and regulations, and indirect property investments.
- Examination of buy-to-let providers’ strategies, including competitive approaches and innovative initiatives in the sector.
Affordability and regulations challenge property investment, but falling interest rates and varied group interest show there are still opportunities.
Stefania Apostol, Senior Financial Services Analyst
Market Definitions
The main focus of this Report is on residential buy-to-let. Additionally, the consumer research also considers other types of investment property, such as second homes, holiday lets and commercial property let.
Mintel uses the following definitions:
- Buy-to-let properties are properties bought with the purpose of renting them out. They may be purchased outright or with a mortgage. They may also be inherited or have previously been used as a main residence.
- A buy-to-let mortgage is a special type of mortgage advanced on a property that is, or is intended to be, let to tenants. Viewed as a form of commercial lending, buy-to-let mortgages fall under the remit of the PRA.
- A second/holiday home is defined as a property that is not the ‘sole or main residence’ of an individual. A second home mortgage is a type of residential mortgage for buying such a property. Some homeowners release equity in their ‘main residence’ home to fund or part-fund a second-home purchase.
- Holiday let property is where a property is let for the purpose of a holiday or short stay only. Many owners of such property advertise on a holiday letting platform, such as Airbnb and Booking.com.