A new survey, which polled more than 200 landlords, found that, while 42% plan to concentrate their efforts on renting out their existing properties, 38% of respondents would like to expand their property portfolio in the next 12 months.
When it comes to investment goals, landlords prioritise improving the value of the properties in their portfolio (45%) over the coming year, closely followed by increasing rental income (38%).
Meanwhile, 17% of those surveyed are looking to diversify their portfolios over the next 12 months.
Turning to how investors plan to fund their endeavours, 40% intend to leverage existing equity in their portfolio, while just over a third (35%) would consider taking out a new mortgage or loan. While one quarter (25%) of investors are open to partnering with others to achieve their property ambitions.
Aviram Shahar, chief executive at Lendlord, which carried out the research, said: “Despite the wide range of challenges investors are currently facing, there remains a strong appetite among landlords to grow and invest in their portfolios over the next twelve months.”
Looking beyond 2024, the over-whelming majority of respondents (82%) expressed a desire to continue growing and expanding their property portfolios. Meanwhile, just over one in ten (13%) aimed to focus on managing and building on their existing portfolio, with only 5% prioritising achieving a steady passive income.
Shahar continued: “Investors are renowned for their entrepreneurial spirit, and the results of Lendlord’s UK Landlord Survey illustrate their determination to capitalise on available opportunities and achieve their investment goals.
“There is currently high demand for rental property, which alongside the potential for both capital appreciation and steady income growth, continues to make buy-to-let (BTL) investments appealing in the long run.”