With the right tools, advice and support from professionals, the experience of being a landlord can be transformed and is likely to remain a sound investment.
Propertymark Protected
Anyone thinking of selling their buy-to-let properties should make sure that they have considered all the alternatives before taking that big step. A Propertymark agent can help explore the options and find ways to overcome the barriers a landlord is facing that are driving them to this radical choice, which in turn impacts those looking for quality property to rent.
Almost everything can be overwhelming when trying to tackle it alone. Just as nobody would think twice about consulting a solicitor for legal advice, the first port of call for advice on landlord issues should be a highly trained Propertymark expert. Whatever the problem faced, there will be options to explore, and solutions to be found.
Economic difficulties
As the world emerges from an unprecedented global pandemic into an economic readjustment, many landlords are re-evaluating their position. Coupled with ever-changing regulatory requirements, increasing numbers of landlords are deciding that enough is enough. A survey by the District Councils Network in late 2021 found that 76 per cent of councils responding had seen an increase in landlords selling up and a corresponding rise in demand for rented property.
However, a decision to exit the buy-to-let market is likely to be premature and ill-advised. Propertymark’s monthly PRS Reports show rents increasing over the last three months, void periods at their shortest for many years and high numbers of tenants seeking properties. By taking advantage of the help and support available, it can still make good sense to be a landlord.
Navigating the requirements of being a landlord is not easy, particularly for someone new to the experience or who lacks the time or expertise to keep on top of evolving demands. Propertymark agents are professionals who are required to be trained to a higher standard than the law demands and can offer advice and support to make the experience of being a landlord simpler. They understand the pressures that landlords are under and can cut through the jargon and confusion to provide the answers and solutions needed, whatever the situation.
Landlord guides
There are a number of important factors to consider for anyone thinking about letting their property. From practical advice to legal responsibilities, our guides are here to help.
We have a range of free guides to help with the most common issues, and other resources are available to simplify the process of keeping on top of all the requirements. When dealing with a Propertymark agent, landlords can be assured that they are up to date on current and forthcoming regulation and undergo regular professional training and checks.
Are you Propertymark Protected?
Letting agents can value the potential rental yield for your property, undertake referencing, tenancy agreements, deposit protection, maintenance, inventories and ensure you're compliant with the law. By using one of our members you are guaranteed to be consulting with a professional agent who will give you up-to-date advice and guidance.
Ombudsman’s casework highlights practical lessons for property professionals
Prioritising clear, proactive communication, ensuring transparent agreements and fees, and keeping robust records of actions and transactions are the top ways agents can reduce the likelihood of complaints escalating to formal disputes in an increasingly regulated housing market. The findings from The Property Ombudsman (TPO) reinforce the value of strong training, clear processes, and high service standards in maintaining trust with consumers and protecting the reputation of the sector.
Clear evidence of local demand must drive planning decisions
Consultation on proposed updates to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) aims to ensure planning decisions better reflect Local Plans across England. Propertymark’s response emphasises that policy must focus on delivering the homes people actually need, supported by infrastructure, clear guidance, and stronger safeguards to ensure developers fulfil their commitments.
Senedd 2026: Our priorities for Wales’ housing future
With elections to the Senedd approaching, we have set out clear priorities for the next Welsh Government to support a stable, professional and sustainable housing sector. Our new manifesto, published in Welsh and English, outlines practical steps to increase supply, raise standards and support property professionals, while ensuring consumers are protected.
Scottish Elections 2026: Our priorities for tackling the housing emergency
With Holyrood elections set for 7 May 2026 and a national housing emergency declared in 2024, we have set out what the next Scottish Government must do to support a stable, affordable and functioning property market. Our manifesto focuses on practical reforms that increase supply, improve affordability and strengthen professional standards — shaped directly by member insight.
HM Land Registry free Property Alert Service – key information for agents
Recent headlines may have made fraud sound like a fast-growing threat across the whole market; however, HM Land Registry’s own figures show that in 2024–25 it received 4,429,092 applications to create or update the register and identified only 86 as fraudulent, or just over 0.0019 per cent. Even so, the sums involved can be significant. In the same year, HM Land Registry says it prevented the registration of fraudulent applications against more than £59 million worth of property.
Propertymark urges action on costs, safety, and standards in commonhold reform
The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee is examining whether the Draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill will strengthen the rights of leaseholders and effectively pave the way for commonhold in practice. We’ve provided written evidence, based on feedback from members, which focuses on the areas where change is most urgently needed to support agents and consumers and create a housing market that functions more effectively.
