How a mortgage adviser could help you secure a buy-to-let mortgage
Investing in property can be an exciting opportunity. It might provide you with a regular income stream now and, if property prices rise, a lump sum in the future. However, securing a buy-to-let mortgage isn’t always straightforward.
The good news is that working with a mortgage adviser means you have the support of a professional every step of the way. Here are six practical ways we could help you secure a buy-to-let mortgage that’s right for you.
1. We can explain the buy-to-let mortgage essentials
If you’ve already taken out a mortgage to purchase your own home, you might be familiar with many of the terms. However, there are some key differences when you take out a mortgage to purchase a rental property.
For example, a buy-to-let mortgage will usually:
- Be interest-only, rather than a repayment mortgage. So, your monthly repayments would be lower, but you’ll still owe the amount you initially borrowed at the end of the mortgage term
- Require a larger deposit. When you’re buying a property to live in, a 10% deposit is standard. However, expect to pay a deposit of 25% or even higher when taking out a buy-to-let mortgage
- Have a higher interest rate when compared to a traditional mortgage.
Having someone on hand to answer your questions could help you make an informed decision.
2. We can assess your affordability
Another key difference with a buy-to-let mortgage is what lenders consider when assessing affordability.
With a traditional mortgage, this usually involves reviewing your income and financial commitments to ensure you can meet repayments.
In contrast, a buy-to-let mortgage focuses on the potential rental yield of the property you want to purchase. As a result, considering the demand for homes in the area and the average rental price is essential.
We can help you calculate how much you’re likely to be able to borrow through a mortgage to increase your chances of submitting a successful application.
3. We can search the market to find the right lender for you
Not all lenders offer buy-to-let mortgages, and those that do often have varying criteria. For example, some might impose property type restrictions, while others are more open to unusual properties.
This can make it difficult to know which lenders are right for your needs and are more likely to approve your application.
Rather than spending hours comparing options, choosing to work with a mortgage adviser means you benefit from expert knowledge. We could quickly identify the lenders that suit your needs.
4. We may be able to secure a more competitive interest rate for you
Paying a higher rate of interest eats into your profits. So, securing a competitive rate is a top priority for many landlords searching for a mortgage.
As a mortgage adviser, we could help you assess the rates of different lenders and potentially access exclusive deals that could reduce your outgoings. When you’re borrowing a large sum, even a seemingly small reduction in the interest rate could provide a boost to your profit margins.
5. We can help you complete your mortgage application paperwork
Applying for a buy-to-let mortgage involves more than filling out a form. Lenders may require:
- ID and proof of address
- Proof or estimates of rental income
- Evidence of personal income and tax returns
- Details of your property portfolio if you already own buy-to-let properties.
Errors on your application can cause frustrating delays. In the worst case, mistakes might even lead to your application being declined. So, having someone who understands what lenders are looking for to advise you could speed up the process and give you peace of mind.
6. We could reduce stress throughout the process
Securing a buy-to-let mortgage can be stressful, especially if you’re becoming a property investor for the first time. As well as the mortgage application, you might be juggling negotiations, legal work, and other steps you need to take to become a landlord.
Knowing you have someone working on your behalf to secure the finance you need to purchase a buy-to-let property can be reassuring and relieve some of the anxiety you might experience.
Contact us to discuss your buy-to-let plans
As mortgage advisers, we’re here to offer you guidance throughout the buy-to-let mortgage application process. Please get in touch to discuss how we could support you with your buy-to-let plans.
Please note: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice, which should be based on your individual circumstances. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate buy-to-let (pure) and commercial mortgages.
Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loans secured on it.
