Landbay's latest survey reveals that 44% of landlords intend to purchase property within the next 12 months, a significant increase from the 32% reported at the end of last year.

The survey indicates that over 60% of those planning to buy aim to build their property portfolios. Additionally, 31% cited an increase in tenant numbers as their reason, compared to 26% in the previous survey.

A smaller segment, 12%, based their intentions on a potential decline in house prices.

One landlord stated, "I think we may see an increase in house prices. I am building my property portfolio."

Portfolio landlords form the majority of those looking to buy, with 40% owning 11 or more properties and 42% holding between four and ten properties. However, smaller landlords, those with one to three properties, also plan to purchase, representing 19% of the prospective buyers.

Regionally, 28% of landlords in the South East intend to buy another property in the next 12 months, while only 13% plan to do so in London.

Landlord confidence in the Midlands, the East of England, and the North is similar, with just under a quarter in each area planning to buy. The survey also shows that 16% of landlords are undecided about their future plans, down from 25% in the last survey.

Meanwhile, 40% of landlords are not looking to purchase property, and just under 30% are considering selling some of their properties over the next year. Concerns about mortgage interest rate fluctuations, eviction difficulties, and landlord taxation were common among this group.

Rob Stanton, sales and distribution director at Landbay, commented, "Despite the various pressures faced by landlords, there is still an appetite for further house purchases. The increase demonstrates the continued attractiveness of buy-to-let as a long-term investment strategy, which is supported by the strong demand for rental properties. We are committed to providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of both landlords and brokers. By combining a growing appetite for investment with our expanding product range, Landbay is well-positioned to support the continued growth of the buy-to-let sector."

The survey highlights a resilient buy-to-let sector, driven by landlord optimism and strategic portfolio growth.