I think so many small landlords using b2l are so heavily leveraged thry have no choice but to pass it on, then that dictates the price as almost everyone else just follows the market in high demand areas.
I used to feel the same way around rents when they fairer but the market has gotten out of control, particularly in heavy holiday rental areas i think fuck that. As its resulted in renting becoming out of step with costs to buy in some areas.
I agree that all profit should be taxed but its a massive own goal with kipper fave waiting in the wings to take advantage. Renters seeing price rises won't blame landlords directly for this.