Rents across the UK are expected to rise by 3-4 per cent per year between 2023 and 2026, according to analysis by HousingAnywhere, the UK's home rental and sales website. However, growth will vary between regions, with city centre Edinburgh and Glasgow expected to see rent increases as low as 1 per cent and Manchester as high as 6 per cent.

The return of students and young professionals in the wake of the epidemic has fuelled growing demand for rental properties, with rental enquiries now 46 per cent higher than the five-year average.

In contrast, the supply of rental properties is 38 per cent below the five-year average, according to Zoopla's December 2022 Rental Market Report. There is a stark contrast between the supply of homes and the demand for rentals.

Rising mortgage rates, inflation and changes in tax and regulation are putting pressure on landlords with buy-to-let portfolios.

Stamp duty on second homes has increased, tax reliefs have been reduced, the Renters' Reform Act will end 'no-fault' evictions, and local regulations such as mandatory HMO licensing have increased the burden on buy-to-let tenants.

HousingAnywhere believes that despite the pressures, if you have a solid financial cushion and can afford the mortgage payments, then it is still a wise decision to stay in your property.

This is because in the long run, property values will appreciate over time. And as the demand for rental properties continues to grow, you'll also be able to charge higher rents for your home and earn a sustainable income.

With long-term house price inflation, coupled with continued strong demand for rentals and a chronic oversupply of housing, the outlook for the buy-to-let market in the UK is still very much favoured at the moment.