Buy to Let Mortgages Done Properly.
Whether you're buying your first investment property or building a portfolio, the lender you choose — and how your application is structured — can make a material difference to your returns.
Buying your first investment property
Buy to let mortgages are assessed differently from residential mortgages. Lenders focus primarily on the projected rental income relative to the mortgage payment — typically requiring rent to cover 125–145% of the interest at a stressed rate.
Your personal income, credit history, and existing property ownership also influence which lenders will consider your application and on what terms. We map all of this before recommending a route.
Growing your portfolio
Once you own four or more mortgaged properties, you're classified as a portfolio landlord — and lenders assess your entire portfolio, not just the individual property. This makes lender selection significantly more complex.
We work with lenders who specialise in portfolio lending, understand SPV and limited company structures, and don't impose blanket restrictions that stop experienced landlords expanding their portfolios.
Discuss your portfolioPersonal name vs. limited company
Since 2017, mortgage interest relief changes have made limited company (SPV) buy to let increasingly popular for higher-rate taxpayers. But the decision isn't straightforward — limited company BTL products typically carry higher rates, and there are tax, legal, and practical considerations to weigh up.
We won't tell you which structure to use — that requires a tax adviser's input — but we can show you the mortgage options available under each structure so you can make an informed decision alongside your accountant.
Real case — anonymised
A landlord with 6 properties was struggling to add a seventh — his existing lender wouldn't extend further and two specialist lenders had declined due to portfolio complexity. We restructured his application narrative, identified a lender comfortable with his portfolio profile, and completed the purchase within his originally planned timeframe.
— Portfolio landlord case, West Yorkshire
Buy to let FAQs
Most buy to let lenders require a minimum 25% deposit, with better rates available at 35–40% LTV. Some lenders will consider 20% in certain circumstances, but the product range narrows considerably. First-time buyers purchasing a buy to let (without owning a residential property) may face additional restrictions.
Yes, though the lender pool is smaller. Some lenders won't lend to first-time buyers on a buy to let basis. Those that do often have stricter income requirements. It's entirely achievable — we know which lenders accept this and what they need to see.
Most lenders require the expected monthly rent to be 125–145% of the monthly mortgage interest payment, calculated at a stressed rate (typically 5–5.5%, regardless of the actual rate). This stress test affects how much you can borrow. If the projected rent doesn't meet this threshold, some lenders will consider your personal income as a top-up.
Most buy to let mortgages are not regulated by the FCA — they are commercial lending products. However, consumer buy to let mortgages (where you're lending on a property you or a close family member have lived in) are regulated. We will make clear which type applies to your situation.
Yes — the same principle applies as with residential remortgaging. When your fixed rate ends, you'll move to an SVR. We start conversations 3–4 months ahead to secure a new rate without any gap. If your property value has increased, a remortgage can also be used to release equity for further investment.
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Important: Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other debt secured on it. There may be a fee for mortgage advice ranging from £100 to £750. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate most buy to let mortgages.