INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE BROKER

Buy to Let Mortgage Broker London

Expert Buy to Let Mortgage Advice

Whether you’re a first-time landlord or managing an established property portfolio, the buy to let mortgage market is increasingly complex. As a specialist buy to let mortgage broker in London, Lodestone Mortgages can help you navigate rates, lending criteria, and property finance options to secure the right mortgage for your investment goals.

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Buy to Let Expertise You Can Rely On

Navigating the Buy-to-Let Market

The UK’s buy-to-let mortgage market is constantly evolving, influenced by changes in tax legislation, economic conditions, and regulatory updates. For many, property investment can be profitable, but it’s not without its challenges — and we’re here to ensure you navigate them with confidence.

At Lodestone, buy-to-let mortgages are a significant part of what we do, whether you’re purchasing your first investment property or adding to an established portfolio.

Expert Guidance and Market Knowledge

With our in-depth market knowledge, we stay ahead of changes to regulations and lender products, so you don’t have to. We’ll help you think of your buy-to-let property as a business, providing you with the guidance and insight you need to make informed, profitable decisions.

Supporting First-Time & Experienced Landlords

For first-time landlords, we simplify the entire process — from assessing whether a property is a viable investment to explaining the pros and cons of buying in your personal name versus through a limited company. If you’re an experienced landlord, we work with you to streamline and grow your portfolio, leveraging our relationships with specialist lenders to find solutions that match your specific circumstances.

Managing Tax, Lender Requirements, and Application

We understand the complexities of buy-to-let applications, including tax implications, lender requirements, and industry regulations (though remember, we’re mortgage experts, not accountants). If you need a Decision in Principle to show estate agents you’re a serious buyer, we’ll handle that for you. From liaising with agents and solicitors to managing the paperwork, we take care of everything to ensure your transaction runs smoothly.

Specialist Support for Unique Properties

Whether you’re buying a standard investment property, a commercial unit, or something more unusual, we’ve seen it all. Properties above shops, homes with annexes or multiple kitchens, and even unique spaces like those with stables or moats—our network of lenders is prepared to consider it all.

End-to-End Support for Your Investment

We don’t just stop at finding a mortgage. We support you throughout the process, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge to thrive as a landlord. With our guidance, you can make confident decisions, avoid unnecessary pitfalls, and focus on growing your property investment business.

Focus on Building Your Portfolio

Let us handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on what matters most — building a successful buy-to-let portfolio.
We’re perfectly placed to guide you whether it’s your 1st or 50th buy-to-let property.

10 Things you can do as a landlord to make your life easier.

Your tenants will thank you for it. For more tips and other industry news be sure to check out the News section of this site here.

Constantly keep your eye on the industry

There are plenty of specific news sites out there, so take advantage of the free information. You should also keep an eye out for useful newsletters, guides and even social media pages to help keep you up to date.

Many landlords have property in different local authority boroughs to where they live, so ensure that you always keep up to date with local laws and regulations as there may be things that you need to do to keep yourself legal.

Review your letting agent

If you use one, then you should think about the letting agent you are using, the service they provide you, and whether or not they are charging you a reasonable price. If you pay your agent to carry out periodic inspections for you, don't be scared to contact your tenants directly and ask if these happen. It will reassure your tenants that you have their best interests at heart (even though inspections can be a pain), ensuring that you want to be kept up to date on any maintenance issues etc.

It is a legal requirement that letting agents be a member of a government approved letting agency redress scheme. You can find more information on this here Registering with a redress scheme as a property agent - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Before you choose an agent to manage your property for you make sure you check that they are registered

Carry out periodic inspections.

As mentioned in the previous point, if you choose to manage your property yourself, then you should carry out inspections. This is a very important task, and its importance shouldn't be underestimated.

Contact your tenants and schedule a suitable time with them at which you can visit and carry out the inspection. If you can schedule a full year's worth at the end of the previous year, you'll save yourself a job, and start the new year a little more organised!

Take notes

When you do carry out your inspection, ensure that you take notes. You can use pen and paper, but its easier and safer to use a phone or tablet. Ensure that you don't forget or miss anything, you don't want to waste your tenants, or your own, time.

Make sure you deal with or at least agree to, any issues that the tenants are having, and at the same time keep a record of how the tenants are looking after your property.

Update contact details

Landlord responsibilities

Property maintenance

The minute that you are made aware of an issue with or something that needs fixing at the property, make plans to have a professional investigate. It could be something as big as a broken boiler, and it could be as simple as a blown fuse, but whatever it is, if the tenancy agreement holds you responsible, deal with it! Its not going to repair itself, and the problem could get worse. The sooner you deal with it the less money it will cost you in the long run.

Respond to tenants ASAP

Maintenance & Repairs Professionals

You may well be a DIY expert, but it pays to have a professional or team of professionals who you trust, that you can call on in the event of an emergency. Using the same people can get you discounts or better rates, but still make sure that you do your research and shop around to compare prices.

Using professionals isn't just sensible to ensure the job is done to a good standard, its also wise because certain jobs can only be carried out by specifically qualified people, such as Gas Safe registered engineers.

Communicate via email if possible

Quick Buy to Let Quote

Useful Buy to Let Mortgage Calculators

Minimum Rent Required

Mortgage Potential

Your Top Buy to Let Mortgage Questions Answered

I’m a first time buyer can I get a buy to let?

The answer is YES – it’s absolutely possible!
Here’s what you need to know:

How lenders calculate your borrowing power:
Under normal circumstances, buy-to-let lenders consider:

Your personal tax position
The rental income of the property
The specific mortgage product you choose

What’s different for first-time buyers?

Some lenders stick to the standard buy-to-let calculations.
Others treat your application like a residential mortgage, assessing your income and outgoings more closely.

The good news:

There are lenders who specialise in helping first-time buyers enter the buy-to-let market!
With expert advice, you can find the right mortgage tailored to your needs.

How we help:

Personalised advice to match your goals.
Access to lenders who understand first-time buyers.
A clear, tailored plan to get you started!

Can I remortgage my buy to let?

The answer is YES!

You can remortgage a buy-to-let property, just like you would a residential mortgage. Whether it's a fixed or tracker rate, moving from one lender to another is always an option.

Why might you remortgage?

Your fixed or tracker rate is coming to an end soon, and you want to avoid reverting to the expensivestandard variable rate (SVR).
You want to save money by exploring better rates on the market.
Looking to purchase more properties or fund renovations? Remortgaging can release equity.
Need to consolidate debts? That’s also an option!

Landlords, take note!

If your mortgage is due for review, it’s a great time to explore your remortgage options. Working with a broker like us can help you find the best deal and make informed decisions.

Are BTL rates higher?

Let’s break it down:

First-Time Buy-to-Let Landlords

If you’re a first-time buy-to-let investor purchasing in your personal name, rates are quite close to residential mortgage rates, with only slight differences.

Limited Company Buy-to-Lets

For those buying through a limited company, expect rates to be a bit higher due to the specialized nature of these loans. Fewer lenders operate in this niche, so there’s a premium.

Portfolio Size Matters

Own multiple properties? Lenders may adjust rates based on the size of your portfolio, potentially increasing costs as your holdings grow.

Bottom Line: Buy-to-let rates aren’t wildly different from residential rates, but specifics vary by landlord type and structure. We’ve guided hundreds of buy-to-let investors, and we’re here to help you too—whether it’s your first property or your fiftieth!

How much deposit do I need?

Here’s what you need to know:

It’s Not Always 25%!

While many brokers might say you need a 25% deposit, this isn’t always the case. The exact deposit required depends on various factors, including:

Your personal tax position (higher or lower rate taxpayer)
Whether you’re buying in a limited company or personal name
The rental income achievable from the property
The mortgage product you choose (e.g. 2-year vs. 5-year fixed rate)

Calculations Matter

For example, if you’re a lower-rate taxpayer and opt for a 5-year fixed rate, you may borrow more than a higher-rate taxpayer choosing a 2-year fixed rate. Each lender’s calculations will vary based on your unique circumstances.

Deposit Requirements

Some lenders will accept a minimum deposit of 20%, while others require at least 25%. But remember, the deposit percentage is determined by affordability calculations, not a fixed percentage.

Tip: Don’t assume a 25% deposit is enough for any property.

The best approach is to get expert advice from a broker who can run the numbers and tailor the solution to your specific needs.

Do I need to be earning a minimum amount?

One of the common questions I hear is:
"Can I get a buy-to-let mortgage if I don't earn a personal income?"

The short answer: YES!

Here’s what you need to know:

Some lenders do require a minimum personal income, usually in the region of £15,000 to £20,000. This is to ensure you can cover mortgage payments during void periods (times when your property is vacant, and there's no rental income).
However, many buy-to-let lenders have no personal income requirement at all! They’re happy to lend as long as the rental income covers the mortgage payments.

With the right lender, your rental income alone could be enough to secure the deal!

Am I too old to start in buy to let?

Here’s the good news: age doesn’t have to stop you!

No maximum age? Yes, really!

Many buy-to-let lenders don’t have age limits at all. This means you can apply, regardless of your age.

Some lenders have age limits.

A few lenders set maximum age limits at the start of the mortgage.
Others set limits for the end of the mortgage term.

very lender is different.

Terms and conditions vary widely, so finding the right lender requires expertise. That’s where a mortgage broker comes in.

What we can do for you:

Tailored advice: We’ll explore your unique circumstances.
Lender matching: Using advanced tools, we’ll pinpoint the lender that suits your needs.
Achieve your goals: We’ll provide a bespoke solution to help you succeed.

No matter your age, opportunities abound to step into the world of property investment.

How to get started in buy to let?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:

Step 1: Educate Yourself

Property investment is rewarding but requires hard work and preparation.
Taxation changes and reduced monetary benefits mean understanding the process is key.

Step 2: Speak to the Right Professionals

Mortgage Broker: Learn about your financing options and what’s possible for your circumstances.
Property Tax Accountant: Decide whether to buy in your personal name or through a limited company. Each has pros and cons based on your situation.
Estate Agents: Research local markets, property demand, and the best property types for your investment goals.

Step 3: Research Your Tenant Type

Decide whether you’ll let to professionals, families, or students.
Understand demand in your target area to maximise rental income.

We’re Here to Help
Over the years, we’ve guided countless clients to successful property investments.
Let’s look at your circumstances and create a tailored plan to help you start your journey.

Can I get a buy to let with a new ltd company?

The short answer? Yes, you can!
But here’s what you need to know:

SIC Codes: Most lenders accept companies with specific 4 SIC codes, giving you more mortgage product options.
Some lenders don't have strict SIC code requirements, but this limits your product choice and could mean paying higher rates.
New Limited Company? No problem! Lenders don’t mind if your company is brand new. You can still access the market.

Top tip: Speak to an accountant first! There are pros and cons to buying in your personal name versus a limited company—it’s crucial to get the right advice for your situation.

Our expertise: We’ve helped many clients—both seasoned portfolio landlords and newcomers—navigate buy-to-let purchases through limited companies.

Should I review my buy to let portfolio?

Are You Maximising Your Profits?

As a professional buy-to-let landlord, it’s crucial to regularly review your property portfolio. Why? Because without consistent checks, you could be losing out on both profit and growth opportunities! Let’s break it down:

Why conduct a portfolio review?

• Many landlords have properties that have slipped onto expensive Standard Variable Rates (SVR) – this can significantly impact your profits.

• We’ve seen smaller portfolio landlords exit the market due to rising taxes and regulations . However, larger landlords are seizing opportunities to refinance and grow .

Key considerations for landlords:

• With interest rates improving, now is the time to explore better mortgage rates and potentially release equity to purchase more properties .

• Professional landlords are increasingly purchasing through limited companies to take advantage of tax efficiencies, though always seek advice from a tax professional before making decisions.

What’s next?

• With the current market favouring buyers, landlords are strategically positioning themselves to acquire more properties before the market shifts into a seller's market.

If you haven’t reviewed your portfolio recently, now’s the time!

Can I buy a buy to let with a trading company?

Yes, It’s Possible!

Specialist SPVs vs. Trading Companies: Most lenders lean towards specialist SPVs (Single Purpose Vehicles) for buy-to-let investments. These are companies formed specifically for property buying and renting.
Breaking the Mold: We have unique connections with lenders who are open to using your existing trading company for buy-to-let purposes.
Personalized Mortgage Solutions: Our expert brokers specialize in guiding clients like you through this process. We offer bespoke advice, assessing your situation to find the most fitting mortgage option.
Transform Your Business: Ready to turn your trading company into a property investment powerhouse? Contact us to strategize and realize your property aspirations!

Our Reviews

As first-time buyers, we were very impressed with the professionalism and guidance provided by Craig. He explained every step clearly, kept us informed throughout, and...

2 months ago

David Auriault

We've used Craig for our past two mortgage renewals and have always found his services personable, simple and pro-active in finding the best deals. Although...

4 months ago

Pete Dungey

Lodestone always go above and beyond to provide both a professional, and value for money service. We started using Lodestone over 10 years ago for our...

5 months ago

Team Thomas

I can’t praise Craig enough for the outstanding service he’s provided. As we near exchange and completion, Craig has truly stood out—of all the interactions...

5 months ago

Charlie Claydon

I’ve been working with Craig for over a decade, and he has consistently provided outstanding service and advice across multiple mortgage applications. His guidance is...

5 months ago

Ian

Buy to Let Mortgage Broker London

Expert Buy to Let Mortgage Advice

Buy to Let Expertise You Can Rely On

Navigating the Buy-to-Let Market

Expert Guidance and Market Knowledge

Supporting First-Time & Experienced Landlords

Managing Tax, Lender Requirements, and Application

Specialist Support for Unique Properties

End-to-End Support for Your Investment

Focus on Building Your Portfolio

10 Things you can do as a landlord to make your life easier.

Quick Buy to Let Quote

Useful Buy to Let Mortgage Calculators

Minimum Rent Required

Mortgage Potential

Your Top Buy to Let Mortgage Questions Answered

The answer is YES – it’s absolutely possible!
Here’s what you need to know:

The answer is YES!

Let’s break it down:

Here’s what you need to know:

One of the common questions I hear is:
"Can I get a buy-to-let mortgage if I don't earn a personal income?"

The short answer: YES!

Here’s the good news: age doesn’t have to stop you!

No maximum age? Yes, really!

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:

The short answer? Yes, you can!
But here’s what you need to know:

Are You Maximising Your Profits?

Yes, It’s Possible!

Our Reviews

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