Buy-to-Let Mortgages

Buy-to-Let Mortgages – Finance for Landlords & Property Investors

Whether you’re buying your first rental property or expanding a growing portfolio, you need more than just a good rate—you need a mortgage that’s built around your goals, your tax position, and your long-term strategy.

At Mortgage Knight, we specialise in buy-to-let mortgages for individuals, limited companies (SPVs), expats, and portfolio landlords. We take care of the details so you can focus on growing your investment.

What Is a Buy-to-Let Mortgage?

A buy-to-let (BTL) mortgage is a loan secured against a property you intend to rent out, not live in. Unlike standard residential mortgages, BTL lending is primarily based on the rental income the property will generate, though your personal income, credit score, and property experience may also be considered.

Who Can Get a Buy-to-Let Mortgage?

We help:

  • First-time landlords
  • Experienced portfolio landlords with 4+ properties
  • Limited company (SPV) landlords
  • Higher-rate taxpayers using BTL for tax efficiency
  • Expat and overseas investors buying in the UK
  • Landlords buying HMOs, MUFBs, or holiday lets
  • Self-employed applicants with complex income
Even if you’ve been turned down by a bank—we may still be able to help.

Key BTL Mortgage Features

Feature Details
Loan amount £40,000 to £5 million+
Deposit required Usually 25%, sometimes lower
Affordability Based on expected rental income, not your salary
Interest types Fixed, tracker, or variable
Repayment options Interest-only or capital & interest
Ownership types Personal name or Limited Company (SPV)
Why Use a Limited Company for Buy-to-Let?

Many investors now buy property through Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs)—limited companies set up purely to hold rental properties.

  • Benefits:
  • Potential tax advantages for higher-rate taxpayers
  • Mortgage interest relief treated as a business expense
  • Easier to separate personal and investment finances
  • Growing acceptance from lenders

We’ll guide you on structure, lender options, and tax implications (alongside your accountant).

What Lenders Look At
  • For Individual Applicants:
  • Your credit score and personal income
  • Expected rental income (typically needs to meet 125–145% coverage of mortgage payments at a stress-tested rate)
  • Property type and condition
  • Landlord experience (more flexible for existing landlords)
  • For SPV or Ltd Co:
  • Company SIC code (must be property-related)
  • Director(s)’ creditworthiness
  • Rental yield and location
  • Business structure and projected income

Why Choose Mortgage Knight for BTL Mortgages?

  • Specialist knowledge of landlord and investment lending
  • Access to over 100 BTL lenders, including those not on the high street
  • SPV and portfolio expertise for more complex cases
  • We present your case professionally to get it through fast
  • Honest, experienced advice tailored to your strategy
Case Study 1: First-Time Landlord with Strong Deposit

Status: James had a £75,000 deposit and wanted to buy a 2-bed flat in Nottingham to rent out. He had no landlord experience.

Solution: We secured a 75% LTV buy-to-let mortgage with a high-street lender open to new landlords.

Outcome: James secured his first investment property, generating £850/month in rent with a 5-year fixed rate.

Case Study 2: SPV Ltd Co Landlord Expanding Portfolio

Status: Nina held four properties in her own name but wanted to buy her next through an SPV for tax planning.

Solution: We helped structure the SPV and found a limited company BTL lender offering competitive rates with no experience penalty.

Outcome: She bought a 3-bed terrace using a £210,000 mortgage, interest-only, with future properties planned under the same company.

Case Study 3: Expat Investor Buying in the UK

Status: Faisal lived in Dubai and wanted to invest in a UK BTL for passive income and long-term growth.

Solution: We placed him with an expat-friendly lender accepting foreign income, with full remote processing and local solicitor support.

Outcome: Faisal bought a Manchester flat with a £185,000 BTL mortgage at 65% LTV, with rent fully covering the loan.

Frequently Asked Questions

A: Yes, some lenders accept first-time buyers or first-time landlords—though options may be limited, and you’ll need a strong deposit.

A: Typically 25%, though some lenders offer 20% or less with stricter criteria or higher rates.

A: Yes. Most BTL mortgages are interest-only, keeping monthly payments low and profits higher.

A: No. BTL mortgages are strictly for rental use. If you plan to live there, you’ll need a residential mortgage.

A: Absolutely. Many investors now use SPVs to hold property. We’ll help you structure it correctly and find the best lenders.

A: Usually:

  • ID and proof of deposit
  • Business accounts or property income
  • Lease or tenancy agreements (if applicable)
  • Property details
  • Company documents (if using a Ltd Co)

We’ll walk you through every step.

faqs

The team made everything easy, even with my complicated income. I'd been turned away before, but not here.