Confidence appears to be returning to the UK's private rented sector with research highlighting a notable shift in landlord sentiment over the past 12 months.
The research from BTL lender Rely shows improving attitudes despite landlords having to navigate increasing costs.
However, there are also growing fears about increasing PRS regulation and issues with tenant affordability.
Rely is the buy to let lender from the OSB Group and its annual Landlord Leaders 2025 study points to a market adjusting to new realities rather than pulling back.
Rising landlord optimism
Adrian Moloney, the organisation’s lending distribution director, said: "We are seeing a clear shift in sentiment in the buy to let space.
"Confidence is returning as landlords adapt to a new operating environment.
"This is a sector that is becoming more professional, more informed and more deliberate in how it responds to change."
He added: "Rising optimism reflects landlords taking control of their businesses, seeking advice, planning for the long term and focusing on sustainability rather than short-term reactions."
Big jump in confidence
Rely says it found that nearly two-thirds of landlords are feeling increasingly optimistic when it comes to the future of the PRS.
That’s a clear rise from the 47% highlighted in last year’s survey and signals a sharp rebound in outlook across the sector.
Also, 24% say they remain concerned and are reviewing their role in the sector, which is down from the 29% recorded in 2024.
The share describing themselves as pessimistic has also dropped, suggesting anxiety is easing even while financial and compliance pressures remain.
The findings are pointing to a strong sense of social contribution with 62% of landlords believing they provide a vital service by providing quality homes for those in need.
Aldermore finds landlord are wary
Meanwhile, separate research from Aldermore highlights a more cautious undercurrent tied to incoming legislation among England's landlords.
Its polling found they are growing increasingly uneasy about the Renters' Rights Act ahead of a phased implementation from 1 May.
Three-quarters of respondents believe the RRA will affect them negatively, while 84% think it will damage the sector overall.
Awareness of the new law is widespread, with only 1% saying they were unfamiliar with the reforms.
Aldermore's director of mortgages, Jon Cooper, said: "Only 1% of landlords surveyed are unaware of the Renters' Rights Act, with the vast majority highly aware of the potential implications.
"It's vital that all landlords assess how the Act will impact their lettings activity, to protect themselves and ensure they're able to continue offering a positive renting experience for their tenants."
Student landlords should prepare
The managing director of Accommodation for Students, Simon Thompson, said: "The research shows the PRS is regaining its confidence, but landlords are bracing for disruption.
"Landlords appear more confident in their long-term role, increasingly professional in approach and clearer about their value within the housing system."
He added: "Yet that renewed optimism sits alongside deep unease about legislative change and rising operating costs.
"With the Renters' Rights Act approaching and landlord legislation in Scotland and Wales means financial pressures may mount, so student landlords particularly need to be prepared."
