It’s unclear whether the CML figure of £16.4bn includes lending on more complex residential investments. If they don’t the real figure could indeed be higher.

It will be interesting to see what the CML forecasts for 2013.

I believe we’ll see buy-to-let lending increase 10-15% year-on-year, possibly even up to £20 billion if the more complex transactions that attract bespoke pricing are included in the figures.

Here at Mortgages for Business 2012 was also a strong year. In particular, we launched Keystone Buy to Let Mortgages, our joint venture with Aldermore Bank, which focuses on the more complex end of the market – a sub-sector currently underserved by the market.

For 2013 we’ve certainly planned for sustained sector growth expanding the team and improving technology. We also have some new initiatives up our sleeves to meet the continued demand.

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Rates are definitely on the way down which is good news for investors and I suspect we’ll see more lenders enter the market this year. Unfortunately I think the majority will position themselves in the mainstream where competition is tough. The housing needs of the population are changing.

Times are hard and there are more individuals looking for cheaper accommodation options. What the market really needs are more lenders in the complex space, catering for investors with larger portfolios and those looking to finance HMOs and multi-units.

I do see the private rented sector taking an increasing market share in the coming years but I don’t see it becoming the dominant housing provider. People still aspire to own their own home, so more needs to be done to help first-time buyers get a foothold onto the property ladder.

David Whittaker is managing director at Mortgages for Business