HTB comments on ONS Private Rent and House Price data

18 June 2025

Alex Upton, Managing Director - Specialist Mortgages & Bridging, Hampshire Trust Bank

“Rents continue to rise, and it is no surprise. Supply is still struggling to meet demand, and competition for well-located rental properties remains high. That pressure is unlikely to ease in the near term. New housing delivery may help, but even if government targets are met, it will take time for that stock to reach and influence the rental market.

“In the meantime, rental supply could contract further. Some landlords are reconsidering their position in light of the Renters’ Rights Bill and the likely cost of future retrofit requirements. It would not be surprising to see rental records continue to be broken this year.

“But where there is pressure, there is also change. Many professional landlords are already adjusting their strategy. We are seeing greater focus on resilient assets such as semi-commercial properties, HMOs and refurbishment projects aimed at delivering long-term value. The most effective landlords are positioning their portfolios with the future in mind.

“This is where brokers and lenders need to play their part. Landlords will require flexible, pragmatic funding to deliver those strategies. The market is shifting, and the brokers who understand those shifts and help clients act on them will be key to maintaining momentum.”