Louisa Sedgwick on UK Finance’s Buy-to-let Mortgage Market Update for Q1 2026

15 July 2026

Commenting on UK Finance’s Buy-to-let Mortgage Market Update for Q1 2026, Louisa Sedgwick, Managing Director of Mortgages at Paragon Bank, said:

“Although buy-to-let lending moderated from the stronger levels seen at the end of 2025, activity in the first quarter remained ahead of the same period last year, indicating that the market continues to move in the right direction where conditions are supportive.

“Remortgaging remained a significant driver of lending and was higher than a year earlier. This points to landlords actively refinancing as they respond to broader affordability considerations and manage their portfolios, including supporting longer-term plans such as expansion and investment in existing properties.

“The value of outstanding balances also rose above £313 billion, underlining the resilience of the sector and its continuing role in supporting investment in privately rented homes.”