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.
Fact sheet: Housing Health and Safety Rating System Regulations 2026
The 2026 Regulations, which came into force on 23 June 2026, amend the prescribed method for assessing the seriousness of hazards in housing and the prescribed hazard descriptions to make them easier to understand and apply. Local authorities can take enforcement action where a Category 1 hazard exists and are given discretion to act where a Category 2 hazard exists.
Rent guarantor: the importance of consumer choice
As the dust settles following the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act, lettings agencies are finding alternative ways to mitigate uncertainty and financial risk for landlords. A range of services are growing in popularity that replace traditional, abolished methods like rent in advance, not least professional rent guarantor provision. This service offers reassurance for good tenants who can afford the rent but don’t quite meet the right criteria on paper, including students, self-employed people or those on benefits, or retirees.
Propertymark calls for tax cuts as Scotland plans new council tax bands
To reduce the tax burden on the housing market rather than introduce further changes in isolation, we warn the Scottish Government that plans for two new council tax bands risk adding complexity while doing little to increase revenue.
Housing enforcement must be fair, clear, and focused on better standards
We have responded to consultations from Bath and North East Somerset Council and Gosport Borough Council on proposed approaches to housing enforcement and financial penalties in the private rented sector. We support robust action where landlords or agents deliberately, seriously or repeatedly fail to meet their legal responsibilities. However, it must be proportionate, transparent and focused on improving compliance rather than simply increasing financial penalties.
Rental property register rollout begins on 15 December 2026
The UK Government has published details of its new ‘Register your rental property’ service, which will be introduced across England in stages starting this winter. Registration will begin in the West Midlands, with the rest of England following on a regional timetable. Propertymark is in continued contact with officials from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to clarify the role of agents in the process and to directly raise questions and concerns from our members.
Issue 64: Autumn 2026
Hot topics we've delved into as the weather starts to cool for autumn include why the human touch is even more valuable now AI exists in all aspects of daily life and how to build a business by building an empowered team. The opportunities in our sector are great; by staying connected and working together we can shape what comes next.
