The research claims that 46 per cent of landlords have been in the market between one and five years, and assessed the reasons why they first became involved.
36 per cent were focussed on additional income that rent could generate in the future and into retirement, 21 per cent made their decision to invest based on expected capital growth in the property for their retirement, seven per cent are letting out a property that was previously their main residence while four per cent had entered the market because of the additional income it could provide at present.
For the 32 per cent of investors aged between 55 and 64, the intended benefits from their investment are imminent as they head towards retirement. However, with 15 per cent under the age of 34, others are planning well ahead.
Commenting on the findings, Iain Williamson, head of key accounts at BM Solutions, said: "The buy-to-let sector has fast become a solid and established market in recent years, and these figures show that people investing are taking a long term approach. This is great news for brokers. Given the confidence that landlords have in the future market, there's a really good opportunity to apply their expert market knowledge to the decisions of these savvy investors."
