Buy-to-Let Mortgages for New and Experienced Landlords
Expert buy-to-let mortgage advice from independent, FCA-regulated brokers. Whether you're a first-time landlord or an experienced portfolio investor, we secure competitive rates from specialist lenders across the market.
We structure cases for straightforward rentals, limited companies, HMOs, and growing portfolios without forcing you through an old generic lead form first.
Why landlords choose us
Whole-of-market BTL access
Portfolio and limited company specialists
First-time landlords welcome
HMOs and specialist property support
Buy-to-Let Mortgage Broker
Your Gateway to Property Investment Success
A buy-to-let mortgage is specifically designed for purchasing or refinancing rental properties. Unlike residential mortgages, buy-to-let affordability is assessed on expected rental income rather than just your personal salary — making them ideal for building a property investment portfolio.
We're specialist buy-to-let brokers serving landlords across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and throughout the UK. With over 20 years of experience and access to the entire mortgage market, we help first-time landlords and experienced investors secure the best rates and terms.
Whole-of-market access
We search the entire BTL market, including exclusive deals not available directly from lenders.
Expert BTL knowledge
Navigate complex criteria — portfolio rules, limited companies, HMOs — with confidence.
We handle everything
Lender negotiations, applications, and paperwork managed from start to completion.
No upfront fees
Free initial consultation and mortgage search. Our £499 fee is only charged on completion.
How It's Calculated
How Much Can You Borrow on a Buy-to-Let?
Unlike residential mortgages, buy-to-let affordability is primarily calculated using expected rental income. Lenders apply a stressed interest rate and require your rent to cover a set percentage of the mortgage payment.
Most lenders require rental income to cover 125–145% of the mortgage payment at a stressed interest rate of typically 5.5–7%. This protects you against rate rises — but choosing the right lender matters enormously, as the specific calculation varies.
Minimum criteria for most lenders: Age 21+, minimum personal income of £25,000–£40,000, minimum 25% deposit, UK resident, property value £40,000–£2,000,000.
Rental Coverage Formula
Annual Rent ÷ (Rate × Coverage) = Max Mortgage
Worked Example
Deposits
How Much Deposit Do You Need?
The size of your deposit has a direct impact on the rates available to you, how many lenders you can access, and how easily you'll meet the rental coverage requirements.
- Lower rates: A 40% deposit typically unlocks rates 0.5–1% lower than a 25% deposit.
- Better rental coverage: Larger deposit = smaller mortgage = easier to pass coverage tests.
- More lenders: Specialist lenders for limited companies and HMOs typically require 30–40% minimum.
- Better resilience: Lower leverage means stronger cash flow through void periods and rate changes.
Deposit sources: savings, equity release, portfolio refinancing, gifted deposits, or business funds (limited company purchases).
| Deposit | LTV | Rates | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25% | 75% LTV | Higher | Limited lenders |
| 30% | 70% LTV | Competitive | Good choice |
| 40% | 60% LTV | Best rates | Excellent choice |
| 50%+ | ≤50% LTV | Lowest rates | Max flexibility |
We help you structure your deposit strategy to maximise tax efficiency and return on investment — including sourcing equity from existing properties.
Repayment Type
Interest-Only vs Repayment Buy-to-Let
The vast majority of buy-to-let investors opt for interest-only mortgages to maximise monthly cash flow and the ability to leverage more properties. But repayment has its place too — particularly if portfolio growth isn't your primary goal.
Interest-Only
Most CommonLower monthly payments, maximum cash flow, and the ability to leverage further properties. Requires an exit strategy — typically selling the property or an alternative repayment vehicle at the end of the term.
Repayment
Higher monthly payments but you build equity over time with no exit strategy required. Limits cash flow available for portfolio expansion, but provides a clear path to outright ownership.
Most buy-to-let investors choose interest-only to maximise cash flow and leverage. We'll help you assess which option suits your investment strategy and long-term goals.
New Investors
First-Time Landlord Buy-to-Let Mortgages
Becoming a landlord for the first time? Despite the myths, many lenders actively welcome first-time landlords. We know which ones offer the best terms for new investors and will guide you through every step.
- You can get a BTL mortgage as a first-time landlord — many lenders welcome new investors
- Most lenders require you to already own your home (though exceptions exist)
- Your property must generate rental income covering 125–145% of mortgage payments
- Budget for the 3% stamp duty surcharge , landlord insurance, letting agent fees, and void periods
- Research local rental demand, yields, and capital growth potential before choosing a property
Advanced Investing
Portfolio Landlords & Limited Company Buy-to-Let
Whether you're scaling a portfolio or restructuring for tax efficiency, we have the specialist knowledge and lender access to make it work.
Portfolio Landlord Mortgages (4+ Properties)
If you own 4 or more mortgaged buy-to-let properties, you're classified as a portfolio landlord under PRA rules. Lenders must assess your entire portfolio, not just the individual property — requiring specialist underwriting, stress testing across all properties, and more detailed financial scrutiny.
We work with lenders who understand complex portfolios, handle mixed property types (residential, HMO, commercial), and offer portfolio mortgages that can consolidate multiple properties under one facility.
Limited Company Buy-to-Let Mortgages
Since changes to mortgage interest relief, many landlords now purchase through limited companies. For higher-rate taxpayers, the tax advantages are significant: full mortgage interest deductible as a business expense, corporation tax at 19% rather than income tax at up to 45%.
We're specialists in limited company BTL — including SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) setup guidance, access to all major limited company lenders, and working alongside your accountant for integrated advice.
Note: Limited company mortgages typically require a 30–40% minimum deposit and a personal guarantee. We advise on whether the structure suits your specific situation.
Specialist Properties
Specialist Buy-to-Let Mortgage Solutions
Not all buy-to-let properties are the same — and not all lenders can handle them. We work across the full spectrum of investment property types.
Houses in Multiple Occupation
Homes with 3+ unrelated tenants sharing facilities. Higher yields (often 8–12%) but require specialist HMO lenders, HMO licensing compliance, and a minimum 25–30% deposit. Rental income is calculated room-by-room.
Multi-Unit Freehold Blocks
Purchasing an entire building with multiple self-contained flats. Specialist underwriting with each unit's rental potential assessed individually. Typically requires 30–40% deposit and a more complex legal process.
Commercial-to-Residential
Converting offices or commercial space into residential flats. Development finance covers the conversion period; standard buy-to-let once complete. Commercial mortgage if retaining commercial space.
Furnished Holiday Let Mortgages
FHL mortgages require the property to be available for short-term letting 210+ days per year. Better tax treatment than standard BTL, but higher rates, seasonal income volatility, and specialist lenders only.
Mixed-Use Properties
Properties with commercial and residential space (e.g. shop with flat above) require a semi-commercial mortgage. More complex assessment, limited lenders, and typically 30%+ deposit required.
Buy-to-Let Remortgage
Switch lender to secure better rates, release equity for further investment, or move from personal name to limited company. Start reviewing options 6 months before your deal ends to avoid your lender's SVR.
BTL remortgage advice →"We came to Home Me with a portfolio of six properties and a messy mix of lenders and rates. They restructured everything, found us a specialist portfolio lender, and released enough equity to fund two more purchases. Exactly what we needed."
David & Claire H. — Portfolio Landlords, Maidenhead
★★★★★
The Process
Our Proven 3-Step Process
01
Investment Strategy Consultation — 30–45 minutes
We assess your full investment position
We review your goals, financial position, experience, existing portfolio (if applicable), preferred property types, tax situation, and long-term exit plan. By the end, you'll have:
- — Expert guidance on BTL viability for your situation
- — Rental yield analysis and affordability assessment
- — Lender matching recommendations
- — Tax efficiency advice (personal vs limited company)
02
Whole-of-Market Search — 1–2 weeks
We search every BTL lender in the market
Including specialist lenders for your specific situation and exclusive broker-only deals unavailable elsewhere. We present:
- — Clear comparison of your best options
- — Detailed cost and fee breakdown
- — Rental coverage calculations
- — Total cost of borrowing analysis
03
Application to Completion — 4–8 weeks
We manage everything through to completion
Full application submission, lender queries, valuation coordination, and legal process management. After completion we provide:
- — Annual mortgage reviews
- — Remortgage reminders before deals end
- — Portfolio refinancing advice
- — Guidance on expanding your portfolio
Why Home Me Mortgages
Why Landlords Choose Us
Specialist BTL expertise
Over 20 years helping landlords build successful property portfolios. We understand the buy-to-let market — the lenders, the criteria, the tax structures, and the specialist situations that catch other brokers out.
Whole-of-market access
We're independent brokers with access to every BTL lender, including exclusive deals and specialist providers who don't appear on comparison sites.
First-time landlords welcome
Expert guidance from choosing your first investment property through to understanding landlord responsibilities, tax implications, and yield calculations.
Portfolio & limited company specialists
Specialist knowledge of PRA portfolio rules, limited company structures, SPV setup, and complex property investments. We work alongside your accountant.
Local knowledge, national reach
Based in Berkshire with deep local market knowledge across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire — and serving landlords throughout the UK.
FCA regulated. No upfront fees.
Fully FCA regulated for your protection. Free initial consultation and mortgage search. Our fee of £499 is only payable on successful completion.
25+
Years' experience
£220M+
In mortgages secured
2,800+
Clients helped
Local Knowledge
Serving Landlords Across Berkshire & Beyond
We're based in Marlow and work with landlords across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire — from individual buy-to-let investors in Reading and Windsor to portfolio landlords managing properties across the commuter belt.
Property prices across the M4 corridor mean that buy-to-let applicants here are often borrowing at a level that benefits from specialist underwriting. We know the lenders who handle this confidently — and we work with clients across the UK by phone and video when needed.
If you want a more local view of the market around our base, visit our Marlow mortgage broker page for the areas we support across SL7 and the surrounding Thames Valley towns.
Common Questions
Buy-to-Let Mortgage FAQs
What is a buy-to-let mortgage?
A buy-to-let mortgage is a loan specifically designed for purchasing or refinancing a property you intend to rent out to tenants. Affordability is based primarily on rental income rather than personal salary, and the criteria differ significantly from standard residential mortgages.
How much deposit do I need for a buy-to-let mortgage?
Most buy-to-let mortgages require a minimum 25% deposit (75% LTV). A 30–40% deposit unlocks significantly better rates and more lender options. For limited company mortgages or specialist properties — HMOs, MUFBs — you typically need at least 30–40%.
Can I get a buy-to-let mortgage as a first-time landlord?
Yes. Many lenders offer buy-to-let mortgages to first-time landlords. You typically need to own your own home first and meet minimum income requirements (usually £25,000–£40,000). We specialise in helping first-time landlords secure competitive rates with the right lender.
How do lenders calculate buy-to-let affordability?
Buy-to-let affordability is based on rental income. Lenders typically require the monthly rent to cover 125–145% of the mortgage payment at a stressed interest rate of 5.5–7%. Your personal income is still considered but is less important than for residential mortgages.
What is a portfolio landlord and what are the implications?
A portfolio landlord owns 4 or more mortgaged buy-to-let properties. Under PRA rules, lenders must assess your entire portfolio — not just individual properties — meaning more detailed financial scrutiny, stress testing across all holdings, and specialist lenders are required. We work with lenders who handle portfolio landlords regularly.
Should I buy in my name or through a limited company?
Limited company structures offer better tax efficiency for higher-rate taxpayers — full mortgage interest deductible as a business expense, corporation tax at 19% rather than income tax at up to 45%. However, limited company mortgages typically require larger deposits and carry slightly higher rates. We provide personalised advice based on your situation and recommend working with a specialist landlord accountant.
What are the tax implications of buy-to-let?
Buy-to-let landlords pay income tax on rental profits (after allowable expenses), capital gains tax when selling (with allowances), and a 3% stamp duty surcharge on additional properties. Limited companies pay corporation tax instead. Tax rules are complex — we strongly recommend consulting a specialist landlord accountant.
Can I let out my residential property?
If you're moving out and want to rent your current home, you must inform your lender and typically switch to a buy-to-let mortgage. A 'Consent to Let' from your existing lender may be available for temporary letting. We handle switches from residential to buy-to-let mortgages.
What rental yield should I aim for?
Gross rental yields typically range from 4–8% for standard buy-to-let, and 8–12% for HMOs. However, net yield after all costs is more important than gross yield. We help you calculate realistic net yields for specific investment properties, including all costs and void period assumptions.
Can I use a buy-to-let mortgage for Airbnb?
Short-term lets including Airbnb require different mortgages. You'll need either a holiday let mortgage or specific lender permission. Standard buy-to-let mortgages typically don't allow Airbnb-style letting. We arrange holiday let mortgages for suitable properties.
How long does a buy-to-let mortgage application take?
Typically 4–8 weeks from application to completion, depending on the lender, valuation, and legal process. Portfolio landlord and limited company applications may take slightly longer due to more detailed underwriting requirements.
Ready to Start Your Property Investment Journey?
Whether you're buying your first rental property or expanding an existing portfolio, our specialist buy-to-let mortgage advisors are here to help.
Or call us on 01628 884 693