Exit Strategy: What Landlords Need to Know Before Selling in 2025
When selling a buy-to-let (BTL) property in 2025, landlords face a number of considerations that go beyond a typical residential sale. Here are key questions to ask yourself, covering financial, legal, tax, and tenant-related issues:
As a Buy To Let Landlord - you need to be asking these type of questions.
Financial & Tax Considerations
What will my Capital Gains Tax (CGT) liability be?
Have I factored in the current CGT rates and private residence relief (if applicable)?
Can I deduct allowable expenses (e.g., agent fees, improvements, legal costs)?
How will the sale impact my overall income for the tax year?
Could the gain push me into a higher tax bracket?
Is it worth deferring or bringing forward the sale for tax efficiency?
Is now the right time to sell from a market perspective?
Am I selling at a peak in property prices or is the market likely to rise further?
What will I do with the proceeds?
Will I reinvest in another property, diversify, or use it for retirement planning?
Tenant & Legal Considerations
Is the property currently tenanted?
Will I sell with tenants in situ or with vacant possession?
If so, what notice periods are required under the current legislation (e.g., Section 21)?
Are there any tenancy issues that could delay or complicate the sale?
Deposit not protected? Outstanding repairs? Disputes?
Have I complied with all legal landlord obligations?
EPC, gas safety, EICR, licensing (especially if HMO)?
Failure to comply could delay the sale or impact valuation.
Do I need to inform the tenant of the sale?
Have I communicated clearly and lawfully to avoid issues?
Valuation & Market Strategy
Will I achieve a higher price with tenants or selling vacant?
Investors may like tenants in situ, but owner-occupiers usually want vacant possession.
Should I refurbish or leave the property as-is?
Will some updates help achieve a higher sale price or attract more interest?
How do I choose the right estate agent for a BTL sale?
Do they have experience with investment properties and tenanted sales?
Can they access both investor and homeowner buyer pools?
Administrative and Timing Concerns
Do I have all the necessary documentation ready for a smooth sale?
Tenancy agreements, compliance certificates, title deeds, leasehold info (if relevant)?
Are there any early redemption penalties on my mortgage?
Does the mortgage product affect when and how I sell?
What is the local demand for BTL properties in 2025?
Are local or national regulations making buy-to-let less attractive to investors?
Should I consider incorporating or restructuring my portfolio instead?
If I’m not exiting the market fully, would a company structure be more tax-efficient?
These questions will become even more important when the Renters Rights Bill comes in towards the end of the year with changes to how you can sell as a Landlord. Our team would happily help and advise you on any of the questions that may be concerning you - do give our Sales or Rental team a call on 0207 113 1066.
Warm Regards
Kate and Rob Hill
Greater London Properties
Founders of GLP and Support Our School Initiative
Specialists in sustainable, personal, and internationally-minded property marketing