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HMO Landlords Commit Despite Rising Improvement Costs

HMO landlords are committed to their portfolios despite rising costs, with many planning improvements to enhance rental yields.

By David Sampson
26 August 2026
2 min read
UK hmo mortgage article image for HMO Landlords Commit Despite Rising Improvement Costs

TL;DR

  • Despite facing improvement costs averaging £10,000, 80% of HMO landlords plan to maintain or grow their portfolios.
  • 82% believe HMOs yield better rental returns than other residential properties.

Written by David Sampson for Mortgage118. Last updated 26 August 2026. Reviewed against our editorial standards. Editorial standards. Mortgage118 is a directory — not FCA-authorised and not a mortgage adviser.

Landlords operating Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are showing resilience amid rising property improvement costs, with many planning to enhance their portfolios. Recent findings indicate that a significant portion of HMO landlords are committed to their investment strategies, with 80% intending to either maintain or expand their property holdings over the next year.

How Much Are Landlords Investing?

A substantial 62% of HMO landlords have undertaken property improvements in the last six months, with an additional 24% having done so within the past year. Furthermore, 15% of landlords expect to spend between £5,001 and £10,000 on enhancements, demonstrating a strong commitment to maintaining property standards and rental appeal.

What Are the Expected Returns for HMO Landlords?

HMOs are perceived as lucrative investments, with 82% of landlords reporting better rental yields compared to traditional residential lettings. Furthermore, 79% of landlords noted stronger returns from their HMO properties. Paragon Bank’s data supports this, indicating that HMOs generated an average yield of 8.9% in Q2 2026, outpacing other property types.

What This Means for Landlords

For landlords, the current trend indicates a robust confidence in the HMO sector. With 54% of landlords expressing a strong likelihood of further improvements in the next year, it’s clear that many are taking a long-term view of their investments. This commitment not only enhances property value but also ensures continued competitiveness in the rental market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of investing in HMOs?

Investing in HMOs can provide higher rental yields compared to traditional buy-to-let properties, making them an attractive option for landlords looking to maximise returns.

How can landlords finance property improvements?

Landlords can explore various financing options, including remortgaging to access equity, personal loans, or specialist buy-to-let mortgages designed for property enhancements.

About David Sampson

David Sampson writes about the UK mortgage market for Mortgage118, covering specialist lending, market trends, and practical advice for borrowers. All content is reviewed for accuracy against FCA guidelines and current market data.

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