Agency group Lomond’s recent analysis reveals that the number of tenanted properties being listed for sale has dropped by almost 20% since June 2024, indicating that Labour’s Renters’ Rights Bill has not yet triggered a significant exit of landlords from the market. This suggests that, contrary to concerns, landlords may be cautiously holding onto their properties for now.

Key regional data shows stark declines in the number of properties with tenants in situ being listed for sale. For instance, the West Midlands experienced a 54.7% drop, while the East of England saw a 50.8% decline since June. Nationally, 10,041 properties were listed with tenants in situ in September, down from 12,423 in June.

Lomond’s spokesperson highlighted that the upcoming Autumn Budget could be pivotal, with potential changes to Capital Gains Tax possibly influencing landlord behaviour. While the data doesn’t show an immediate mass exodus of landlords, regulatory pressure and financial factors, such as lower returns and tighter regulation from both past Conservative and current Labour administrations, have been cited by firms like Hamptons as reasons for landlords leaving the sector over recent years.

The housing market may still face future shifts, particularly in response to further governmental tax or legislative changes.