The UK property market is experiencing a sharp rise in listings, with landlords increasingly offloading properties ahead of the Renters Rights Bill becoming law. New data from Home.co.uk reveals that the number of unsold homes rose by 27,732 in just one month, pushing total sales stock across England and Wales to 503,176—the highest April figure in over a decade.

Regulatory Uncertainty Triggers PRS Sell-Off

According to Doug Shephard, Director at Home.co.uk:

“The impending Renters’ Rights Bill, likely to take effect from October, is causing concern among landlords. With the balance shifting towards tenant rights, many are opting to leave the PRS altogether, adding to an already bloated sales market.”

Landlords are citing changes such as the abolition of Section 21, the end of fixed-term tenancies, and new rules on rent increases as reasons to exit the sector. With capital values still holding strong in many areas, some see now as the right time to cash in.

Rental Growth Cools Nationally — But Not Everywhere

While UK-wide annual rent growth has dipped slightly into negative territory at -0.7%, this masks strong regional variation:

✅ High growth areas:

• East Midlands: +9.3%

• Westminster: +13.5%

• Sutton: +6.5%

• Bromley: +6.2%

❌ Cooling markets:

• Lambeth: -8.6%

• City of London: -10.5%

• West Midlands & Yorkshire: Also showing softening

The figures highlight a reshuffling of value in the PRS, as some areas continue to attract strong rental demand while others level off after post-pandemic highs.

Strategy Over Sell-Off: Landlords Repositioning

Not all landlords are exiting the market. Many are choosing to adapt their portfolios instead:

• Targeting higher-growth regions

• Engaging with more supportive local authorities

• Incorporating via limited companies to maximise tax efficiency

Landlord groups are also calling for greater clarity and support during the transition. As one Midlands landlord put it:

“There’s a difference between protecting tenants and punishing landlords. We just want policy that’s clear and fair.”

What This Means Going Forward

With record levels of stock on the market, short-term sales prices may soften. However, this opens up opportunity for strategic investors. Areas like the East Midlands and outer London boroughs offer a chance to secure assets ahead of regulatory changes—potentially locking in high-yield returns.

As always, landlords and agents should continue to track updates to the Renters’ Rights Bill and seek professional advice to prepare for its implementation.