The buy-to-let sector received a boost this week, as two independent surveys said the outlook was positive. The Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA) released findings reviewing the opinions of mortgage intermediaries on the buy-to-let market and Paragon Mortgages reported a swing to return on capital from capital appreciation.
IMLA’s research indicated that, despite adverse publicity surrounding the future of the buy-to-let market, only a third of all mortgage intermediaries said they would try to dissuade potential buyers. It found 44% of mortgage brokers expect to handle more buy-to-let business in a year’s time. Over 71% of intermediaries have clients with two or more properties in their portfolio.
Tony Ward, chairman of IMLA, commented: ‘The research shows that despite media fears of the buy-to-let bubble bursting, mortgage intermediaries are still positive about this market and believe that it provides a viable strategy for the right investor. ‘
l Turn to page 4 for further analysis.
