Buy-to-Lets

Standard Buy-to-Let

A traditional buy-to-let mortgage for individuals purchasing a single rental property.

Affordability is based on rental income
Personal income is used as a secondary check
Interest-only options are common
Minimum deposit typically 20–25%

Consumer Buy-to-Let

Used when you’re renting out a property due to circumstance rather than running a rental business.

Applies when you’re not acting as a professional landlord
Often used when converting your current home into a rental
Regulated differently from standard buy-to-let
Useful for onward purchases when you want to keep your existing home

Portfolio Landlord Mortgages

For landlords with four or more mortgaged rental properties.

Lenders assess your entire portfolio, not just the property you’re buying
Stress tests apply across all properties
Business-style underwriting
Detailed documentation required: assets & liabilities, business plan, cash-flow overview
Often more flexible for experienced landlords

Limited Company Buy-to-Let

A buy-to-let mortgage taken out through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) limited company.

Popular for tax planning and long-term portfolio growth
Interest coverage ratios are often more favourable
Personal guarantees are usually required
Deposit requirements similar to standard buy-to-let
Suitable for landlords planning to scale

New-Build Buy-to-Let

For investors purchasing new-build houses or flats.

Some lenders restrict loan-to-value
Developer incentives may be available
Rental demand and yield projections are key to approval

Stamp Duty for Buy-to-Let (2026)

Buy-to-let purchases are classed as additional properties, so the standard SDLT rates apply plus a 3% surcharge.

SDLT Rates for Additional Properties (2026)

Up to £125,000 — 3%
£125,001 to £250,000 — 5%
£250,001 to £925,000 — 8%
£925,001 to £1.5m — 13%
Over £1.5m — 15%

Example If you buy at £300,000:

3% on the first £125,000 = £3,750
5% on the next £125,000 = £6,250
8% on the remaining £50,000 = £4,000 Total SDLT = £14,000