Fewer UK landlords are selling properties than last autumn, yet one in four remains ready to exit the market.
The pace of landlords leaving the UK rental market appears to be slowing, but a significant number still plan to sell, according to new research from lettings technology platform Goodlord.
A survey of more than 1,200 landlords found 72% are in a ‘holding pattern’ – neither selling properties nor buying new ones.
In September 2025, 35% of landlords reported having sold or tried to sell part of their portfolio in the previous 12 months. The latest figures show that number has dropped to 24%.
The slowdown is reflected in broader market data. The Goodlord Rental Index recorded year-on-year rental inflation of 2% in February 2026, down from 4% the previous year.
Separate figures from TwentyCi also highlight fewer former rental properties being listed for sale this year.
Despite the easing, the market remains far from balance. Just 4% of landlords said they are actively buying new properties, meaning exists are still likely to outpace new entries.
Long-term confidence among landlords is also weak as 44% of landlords said they expect to remain in the market five years from now. More than a third (35%) do not anticipate being landlords by 2031, while 21% are still undecided.
Among those staying, 13% expect to reduce their housing stock, in contrast to the 4% who plan to expand.
The findings come as landlords prepare for the Renters’ Rights Act, which is due to come into effect from 1st May 2026.
Emily Popple, Director of Landlord Experience at Goodlord said: ‘These numbers provide initial indications that the pace of the so-called ‘landlord exodus’ has started to ease, with the majority of landlords appearing to be in a holding pattern.
‘Whilst fewer landlords leaving the sector is definitely good news, the wider signals are still concerning. Far too many don’t see a future for themselves in the PRS and there’s only a very small cohort investing in portfolio expansion. We only have a short window to try and turn the tide.’
Image: Iza Gawrych/UnSplash
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