Part 2: Why the next generation of landlords could be the sector’s most professional yet

Adrian Moloney, Group Lending Distribution Director, Rely

Not all landlords enter the market with the same ambitions. Some are focused on building a business, others on creating financial security, and some on preserving assets for future generations. What Rely’s Next Gen Landlords research suggests is that many future landlords will share a more purposeful and professional approach to ownership.

The research points towards a generation that is likely to approach property investment in a more deliberate, strategic and professional way than many of their predecessors. While financial returns remain important, ownership is often linked to wider objectives, from creating financial security and building a business to preserving assets that can eventually be passed on to future generations.

Importantly, future landlords are far from a uniform group. Some are motivated by entrepreneurship, others by long-term wealth creation, while certain landlord groups place considerable emphasis on providing high-quality homes and delivering positive outcomes for tenants. What many appear to have in common is a clear sense of purpose and a more considered approach to decision-making.

Evidence of this can already be seen across today’s market. Pegasus Insight’s Q2 2026 research found that four in five limited company landlords describe themselves as intentional landlords. Around three-quarters of buy to let purchases were made through limited companies in 2025, pointing to a sector where ownership structures and long-term planning are receiving closer attention.

A more demanding operating environment is also encouraging greater professionalism. Regulation, compliance requirements and rising costs mean landlords are taking a closer look at portfolio performance, business plans and long-term sustainability. As a result, many are placing greater value on specialist expertise and informed advice.

This presents an opportunity for brokers to build deeper relationships with clients whose objectives may be more varied than previous generations. Understanding what a landlord wants to achieve is likely to become just as important as understanding the property they want to finance.

The next generation of landlords may not look exactly like those who came before them, but the research suggests they could be among the most strategic, informed and professional the sector has seen.

Key takeaways for brokers on the professionalisation of the private rented sector

• Future landlords are likely to approach property investment with a stronger focus on purpose, planning and long-term objectives.

• Four in five limited company landlords describe themselves as intentional landlords, highlighting the growing importance of strategic decision-making.

• Understanding a client’s wider ambitions may become just as important as understanding the property they want to finance.

Download the full Next Gen Landlords playbook.