BTL mortgages —
structured to work.
Whether you’re a new landlord with a single rental, or a portfolio investor adding to a limited company structure, the right BTL mortgage can make or break the numbers. We compare the whole market and structure deals that work — both today and after the next round of tax changes.
The buy-to-let market today
Buy-to-let has changed substantially over the last decade. The Section 24 tax changes, tighter stress-testing, and the rise of limited-company structures have all reshaped the market.
Today, the lender choice — and the legal structure you hold the property in — matters more than ever. We work with new landlords, with portfolio landlords expanding existing holdings, and with limited-company structures that have become the dominant way of buying new BTL stock.
Step by step
Owned in your personal name. Simpler structure.
Property owned by a Special Purpose Vehicle. Mortgage interest fully deductible.
More than 4 mortgaged BTL properties triggers stricter lender criteria.
Higher rental yields, more management, narrower lender pool.
Seasonal income, specialist lender market.
Keeping your existing home as a rental while moving to a new home.
What you’ll need
- Deposit — typically 25% minimum on BTL, 30%+ on holiday let or HMO
- Personal income evidence (most lenders require minimum £25k+)
- Estimated rental income
- Limited company documents — if relevant
- Existing portfolio details — if more than 4 mortgaged properties
What it costs
A single broker fee, payable only when your mortgage completes. Free for NHS staff, Blue Light Card holders, teachers, social workers and the armed forces. Always confirmed in writing before any work begins.
Common questions
Should I buy in my own name or in a limited company?
It depends on your personal tax situation. Higher-rate taxpayers usually benefit from a limited company structure due to Section 24. We’ll always recommend you take accountancy advice alongside our mortgage advice.
How does the lender assess rental income?
They apply a ‘rental stress test’ — typically requiring rent to cover 125–145% of the mortgage interest at a stressed rate. We calculate this upfront so there are no surprises.
Are HMO mortgages much more expensive?
Slightly — typically 0.5–1% above standard BTL rates, with a narrower lender pool. We know which lenders are active in this space.
Can I get a mortgage with no personal income?
Most lenders require minimum personal income, typically £25k. A small number don’t. We’ll identify who’s open to your specific situation upfront.
I’m new to letting — can I still get a BTL mortgage?
Yes, but the lender pool is narrower than for existing landlords. We’ll identify who’s open to first-time landlords and structure the application properly.