Clear proof that landlords are selling up in increasing numbers has been published by industry data firm TwentyCi.

It has produced analysis for a national newspaper showing that the proportion of buy-to-let property owners listing properties has increased by 50% when compared to 2024.

Just over 25,000 homes have been marketed that were previously rental homes which is 17.4% of all new listings. Last year the number was lower, at 11.7%.

Our analysis reveals that a growing number of landlords are selling up to exit the sector.”

Colin Bradshaw, CEO at TwentyCi, told This is Money: “Our analysis reveals that a growing number of landlords are selling up to exit the sector, resulting in a substantial number of properties disappearing from the rental market.

“This will only worsen the supply crisis and drive rents even higher, and this is before the Renters’ Rights Bill has even been enacted.”

Tax liabilities

Babek Ismayil, CEO and Founder of property buying platform OneDome, told This is Money: “Buy-to-let investors are experiencing diminished returns, and there’s growing concern about impending legal changes.

“The shift is mainly being driven by increased tax liabilities, which have made it less financially viable for some landlords to continue holding properties in their personal names.”

Stay put

But Jeremy Leaf, north London estate agent and a former RICS chairman said: “Rents at near or record levels are also persuading landlords to stay put.

“They can recognise that there are still reasons to do it although perhaps those landlords who have had difficulties with tenants are selling up.”

Clear evidence emerging that landlords exiting says big agency