Buy to Let Mortgages FAQ's
How much can I borrow on a buy-to-let mortgage?
Buy-to-let borrowing is usually based on the property's expected rental income rather than your personal salary alone, with most lenders requiring rental cover of around 125% to 145% of the mortgage payment.
Do I need to be a homeowner to get a buy-to-let mortgage?
Most lenders require you to already own your own home, either outright or with a mortgage, though a small number of specialist lenders will consider first-time landlords who are not homeowners.
What deposit is needed for a buy-to-let mortgage?
Deposits typically start from 20% to 25% of the property value, though rates and product choice generally improve with a larger deposit.
How is affordability assessed on buy-to-let mortgages?
Affordability is primarily based on projected rental income using an interest cover ratio test, with some lenders also considering personal income as a secondary factor, particularly for portfolio landlords.
Can I get a buy-to-let mortgage through a limited company?
Yes, limited company buy-to-let mortgages are widely available and can offer tax advantages for some landlords, particularly higher-rate taxpayers with multiple properties.
What is the difference between a personal and limited company buy-to-let mortgage?
A personal buy-to-let mortgage is held in your own name with income taxed as personal income, while a limited company (SPV) mortgage is held by the company, with profits subject to corporation tax and different mortgage interest relief rules.
Can first-time landlords get a buy-to-let mortgage?
Yes, though the range of available lenders is narrower than for experienced landlords, and some lenders apply stricter income or homeownership requirements to first-time landlord applications.
Are interest-only buy-to-let mortgages available?
Yes, the majority of buy-to-let mortgages are arranged on an interest-only basis, with the capital repaid on sale or refinance of the property at the end of the term.
Can I let a buy-to-let property to family members?
Letting to family members, known as a 'regulated tenancy' in lending terms, requires a specific family let mortgage product, as standard buy-to-let mortgages typically exclude this arrangement.
What tax considerations apply to buy-to-let property?
Rental income is subject to income tax (or corporation tax if held in a company), and mortgage interest relief rules differ between personal and company ownership; we always recommend confirming your position with a tax adviser or accountant.
Do you arrange buy-to-let mortgages across England?
Yes. Giles Finance arranges buy-to-let mortgages throughout England and Wales, from our London base to Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Nottingham, Sheffield, Bristol and Cardiff. Individual landlords, limited companies and portfolio investors are all covered.
Can you help landlords outside London buy rental property?
Yes. Whether the property is in Greater London, the Home Counties or a regional city, we compare whole-of-market lenders on rates, stress tests and rental cover so landlords anywhere in England and Wales get suitable terms. Call 020 8088 2211 to discuss a purchase or remortgage.