Buy-to-let
Property as an investment or income source
Most buy-to-let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, although some may be regulated depending on who the property is let to.
Our trusted advisors are experienced in the buy-to-let market and are here to help you find the optimum mortgage to suit your circumstances.
Fast, easy & reliable
It is always a pleasurable experience to deal with VA Mortgages.
Their staff are highly skilled, experienced and competent, which is reassuring when dealing with financial services and mortgages.
I would personally recommend them to anyone wishing a fast, easy and reliable company to trade with.
Vincenzo Zuccarello
Recommended advice
Many thanks Les for all your advice which I found extremely useful, especially the Rent-a-Room scheme which I had not known about.
The products you offered me were competitive and you obviously know the market in great detail.
I would have no hesitation in offering your services to my friends and family.
Alasdair Barnett
First buy-to-let
I bought my first house in 2014, I used VA Mortgages and they were wonderful.
I have just bought my second house and decided to purchase a buy-to-let property at the same time.
VA Mortgages have been totally amazing and supported me through the whole process. I can not thank them enough. 10 out of 10 from me!
Sophie Houldsworth
What is a buy-to-let mortgage?
A buy-to-let mortgage is used when you intend to rent out a property rather than live in it yourself.
Buy-to-let mortgages are assessed differently from residential mortgages and are usually based on:
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Expected rental income
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Loan-to-value
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Your personal financial position
You should always seek independent accountancy advice to understand the tax consequences and options of buying a Buy to Let property.
Are buy-to-let mortgages regulated?
Most buy-to-let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
However, a buy-to-let mortgage may be regulated if:
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The property is, or will be, let to a close family member
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The arrangement meets the definition of a “consumer buy-to-let”
We will confirm whether your mortgage is regulated or unregulated before you proceed.
Can I live in a buy-to-let property?
You should not live in a property financed by a buy-to-let mortgage unless your lender has explicitly agreed.
Living in a buy-to-let property without lender consent:
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May breach your mortgage terms
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Could lead to serious consequences with your lender
If your circumstances change, you should always speak to your lender or advisor before taking any action.
How much deposit do I need for a buy-to-let mortgage?
Most buy-to-let mortgages require a minimum deposit of around 25%, although this can vary depending on:
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Rental income
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Property type
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Lender criteria
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Your overall financial position
Higher deposits can sometimes provide access to more competitive rates.
How is affordability assessed?
Buy-to-let affordability is usually based on:
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Expected rental income
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A lender’s required interest coverage ratio (ICR)
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Stress testing at a higher interest rate
Some lenders also consider your personal income, especially for first-time landlords.
Do I pay Stamp Duty on buy-to-let properties?
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) rules for buy-to-let properties differ from standard residential purchases.
In England and Northern Ireland, additional residential properties are normally subject to a higher rate of SDLT.
Stamp duty rules:
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Vary by country (England, Scotland, and Wales use different systems)
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Change over time
We recommend checking the latest rules on GOV.UK or discussing this with your advisor.
Is buy-to-let suitable for everyone?
Buy-to-let involves risks, including:
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Periods without tenants
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Changes in interest rates
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Property maintenance costs
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Tax and regulatory changes
It is important to understand both the benefits and the risks before proceeding.
Why use a mortgage broker for buy-to-let?
A mortgage broker can:
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Identify suitable buy-to-let lenders
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Explain whether your mortgage is regulated
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Assess rental affordability correctly
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Help structure borrowing for portfolio landlords
A whole-of-market approach allows access to a wide range of buy-to-let lenders.