According to recent research, landlords have earned returns of up 1,400% since 1996 – outstripping returns from investments, shares, bonds and cash. £1,000 invested in a buy-to-let asset in 1996 was worth nearly £15,000 at the end of last year. In spite of a couple of market slumps during this period, levels of capital growth and rising rents have reaped rewards for landlords.