Landlords foresee a brighter tomorrow

18 January 2010

There have been few good things to report over the past couple of years in the mortgage market so it is reassuring to see a raft of positivity emanating from our landlord customers from our first landlord survey.

With more than 350 responses, there is an overwhelming feeling that the worst is behind the sector and activity is primed to rise in the next 12 months.

In fact, some 81% of respondents predict a positive outlook for the buy-to-let sector.

This has much to do with the fact that most of our customers are professional landlords rather than those who saw the chance of earning a quick buck a few years ago and have been subsequently caught out by the credit crisis.

It is apparent from our survey that those who see buy-to-let as a long-term investment have been best placed to ride out any difficulties, with 38% intending to add to their portfolios soon.

Further proof that buy-to-let lending is on the up came with Council of Mortgage Lenders figures that showed a quarterly rise of 10% in Q3 2009 to £2.1bn.

The number of buy-to-let products available has also increased recently and, given that most deals now require at least a 20% deposit this will remain a market for professionals.

Buy-to-let is still a good investment opportunity but clients must take a long-term view, carry out meticulous research and have the money to access the mortgage deals that are available.

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