Our Expertise
Buy to Let
A buy to let mortgage is used to purchase or refinance a property that will be let to tenants rather than lived in by the owner.
Overview
What is buy to let?
Buy to let lending is assessed differently from residential lending. Alongside your personal circumstances, the lender considers the property's expected rental income and whether it comfortably covers the mortgage payment under their stress assumptions.
Deposits are typically larger than on a residential purchase, and many landlords use interest only structures where only the interest is paid each month and the capital remains outstanding at the end of the term. That has long-term implications which should be planned for.
Who might this be suitable for?
- First time landlords purchasing an investment property
- Experienced landlords expanding or refinancing a portfolio
- Owners converting a residential property to a let
- Investors purchasing through a limited company structure
How Help to Lend can help
- 01We explain how rental cover calculations work and what they mean for the amount available.
- 02We compare personal and limited company routes so you can discuss the structure with your tax adviser.
- 03We handle applications on portfolio cases where lenders require additional schedules and background information.
- 04We review the exit strategy on interest only borrowing as part of the conversation.
Assessment
What may lenders and providers consider?
Rental income
Lenders assess expected rent against the mortgage payment using their own stress rate.
Deposit
Buy to let deposits are usually higher than residential deposits, and requirements vary by lender.
Personal income
Some lenders require a minimum personal income in addition to rental cover.
Property type and tenancy
Flats above commercial premises, HMOs and unusual tenancies are treated differently by lenders.
Criteria vary between providers and can change at any time. Nothing here confirms that a particular lender or insurer will accept an application.
The Process
How we work through it together.
- 01
Understand
We start with a conversation about your circumstances, plans and objectives.
- 02
Assess
We review your position, affordability and mortgage requirements in detail.
- 03
Recommend
We identify suitable mortgage and protection options and explain the reasoning.
- 04
Apply
We prepare and manage the application, liaising with the lender on your behalf.
- 05
Progress
We keep the case moving and keep you informed at every stage.
- 06
Complete
We support you through to completion and remain available afterwards.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Related
Related expertise
Speak to an adviser about your circumstances.
We'll explain the options clearly and tell you what to prepare, with no obligation.
- 20+ Years of Advice
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- Support to Completion