London’s buy-to-let market is facing mounting pressure as yields continue to tighten, driven by a combination of rising operational costs and stagnant rental growth in some areas.
Landlords are contending with higher mortgage rates, increasing maintenance expenses, and an evolving regulatory landscape – all of which are making it harder to turn a profit.
While demand for rental properties in the capital remains strong, many investors are now questioning whether the returns justify the risk.
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) is calling on London landlords to consider investing in the housing market in north of England where rental yields are typically higher.
The industry body is taking its national conference to the Exhibition Centre Liverpool on 5 November 2025 to highlight potential profitable properties for landlords.
The conference will feature expert-led sessions designed to equip landlords with the insights they need to identify high yield markets and tap into strategies to maximise returns and adapt to an evolving rental landscape.
Ben Beadle, chief executive of the NRLA, said: “London’s rental market remains as dynamic and demanding as ever, but high property values and low yields make it difficult to grow and succeed. Despite high tenant demand, landlords from all around the Capital are looking further afield to expand their businesses.
“This conference is about broadening horizons and giving landlords new and old the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in emerging markets.
“It’s also an opportunity to connect with sector leaders, learn best practice, and explore where the future lies for private renting.”
Attendees will hear from leading speakers including Steph McGovern, the Greater Manchester Good Landlord Charter, and Housing Ombudsman Richard Blakeway, alongside exploring a wide range of products and services from exhibitors.
Event Details:
- What: UK Housing Conference 2025
- When: November 5, 2025, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Where: Exhibition Centre Liverpool, Kings Dock, Liverpool, L3 4FP
Landlords and agents can register to attend the conference by accessing the NRLA’s sign-up page here.
I became an accidental landlord in London in 2003 when I let my 2-bed flat when I moved for work. It was a 70s purpose-built block of 14. When I moved back, I bought a 4-bed house in the same area and continued letting. I then bought 2 flats ‘up North’ to top-up my pension, thinking letting would be the same and just as profitable. The worst financial mistake I’ve ever made! Nothing but trouble. Rent voids, feckless tenants, massive losses, repairs, freeholder scams, high service charges, agents fees because it was 200 miles away in a place I didn’t know. You name it and I experienced it… and all bad. Whereas, my London flat never had a problem tenant and my rent when I sold in 2016 was £1750pm with low service charges and zero ground rent. I nearly doubled my return ony London flat, and more than doubled my return on my house, while I will never make a profit on my remaining Northern flat.
My advice to Londoners wanting to get into BTL, for what it’s worth, is don’t invest up North unless you know the area well and intend to live nearby… and do buy flats.
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