Now that the dust’s settled on the Autumn Budget, I’ve been taking some time to reflect on what it all means for the buy-to-let market.

After months of uncertainty and despite some hysterical predictions in the media that made you feel as though the end of the world was nigh, I think it’s fair to say that things weren’t quite as bad as feared, particularly as far as our industry is concerned. The outcome was far more balanced than expected and, in many respects, was reassuring for those operating in the buy-to-let sector.

Yes, there’ll be a 2% increase to the basic, higher and additional rates of tax for privately owned rental properties, and the dividend tax rate for landlords operating through limited companies will also rise by 2%, But in terms of headlines for the rental sector, these were the only points of concern. While increasing taxes slightly, the Chancellor decided against any major structural changes.

There were no changes to Stamp Duty, no new restrictions on interest relief and no additional regulation directly targeting landlords. In short, there were no nasty surprises and nothing we didn’t already know before Rachel Reeves delivered her statement.

With the Renters’ Rights Bill receiving Royal Assent and due to come into effect next spring, what the Autumn Budget did give us was certainty. We finally know the direction we’re heading, and the sector now has a clear framework for the coming years.

I believe this combination of clarity and stability will encourage investment rather than deter it.  For those considering expanding their portfolios, the environment will be more settled than it has been for some time. Strong demand and limited supply mean that the fundamentals of the sector remain robust, and I think next year will be the ‘year of purchase’ for investors. As a landlord myself, I recently experienced more than 30 applications for a single property when it became available and for the first time in a few years, I’m looking to add new houses to my portfolio.

Overall, I believe the Budget provides certainty, maintains key incentives and reinforces the long-term value of property as an investment. For landlords who take their responsibilities seriously, follow the rules and focus on delivering safe, well-managed homes, the outlook for 2026 is increasingly positive.

Before I sign off for the year, I’d like to thank you for all your support during 2025. It’s been great getting out on the road and meeting so many of you. I’ve really enjoyed delivering the educational workshops and online webinars that show how CHL Mortgages for Intermediaries can support your specialist lending cases. I’m already looking forward to helping you again over the next 12 months!

Season’s greetings and best wishes for 2026.