Buy to Let Mortgages for Property Investors

Thinking of investing in property? The buy-to-let market has well and truly got back on its feet after a challenging couple of years. At dwello, we're seeing a new influx of first-time landlords alongside experienced portfolio builders, and there are more than enough products available for any type of application you need.

Whether you're looking to convert your current home when you move, add to an existing portfolio, or take your first step into property investment, we'll guide you through the process and help you make the right decisions for your long-term goals.
Book my free call back

Introduction to Buy to Let

Buy-to-let mortgages are designed for properties you plan to rent out rather than live in. Unlike residential mortgages, these are assessed on the property's ability to pay for itself through rental income, not just your personal earnings.

The market today is much more optimistic than 2-3 years ago when rising rates squeezed landlord affordability. We're seeing renewed confidence and genuine opportunities for smart investors.

Book my free call back
Who is Buy to Let for?
We're seeing a fascinating mix of clients in the modern market:
Book my free call back
Let to buy or home movers
Looking to keep their first property as an investment when they move to their forever home, rather than selling up.
Young investors
who view property as an investment vehicle first. Instead of buying their first residential property, they're using gifts from family to get that crucial 25% deposit and start building a portfolio early.
Existing homeowners
Ready to expand into investment property as a second income stream or pension planning strategy.
Experienced portfolio
Landlords looking to remortgage existing properties or add to their collection.

The key is understanding your long-term goals -- whether this is a one-off investment, the start of a portfolio, or part of your retirement planning.

Deposit Requirements & Lending Criteria

The minimum deposit for most buy-to-let mortgages is 25% of the property value. For landlords who are slightly cash-strapped, we can access specialist lenders offering 20% deposit options, but we'd always recommend aiming for that 25% if possible.

Here's the crucial bit that many people misunderstand: buy-to-let mortgages aren't based on your income alone. They're assessed on the property's ability to pay for itself through rental income.

The magic number? 125% rental coverage. This means if your mortgage payment is £1,000 per month, the rental income needs to be at least £1,250. This rental coverage ratio ensures the property generates enough income to cover the mortgage with a buffer for void periods and maintenance.

Lenders will typically arrange a desktop valuation to assess both the property value and realistic rental income. If your projected rental seems high for the area, they might require supporting evidence from local estate agents.

Tax Implications and Considerations

This is where things get interesting, and honestly, we always recommend speaking to a qualified tax adviser for your specific situation. But here's the landscape:

Personal ownership tends to work better if you're looking at this as a next step or retirement investment. The mortgage rates and fees are typically lower than limited company routes.

Limited company ownership makes more sense for portfolio building or if you want to remove properties from your personal estate. The big advantage? Mortgage interest is fully deductible for corporation tax purposes, whereas personal landlords have seen this relief restricted in recent years.

However, remember that even with a limited company structure, lenders will require you to sign a personal indemnity. This means you're still personally liable for the mortgage repayments if the company fails -- it's a regulatory requirement for what's called "special purpose vehicles."

The decision comes down to your long-term goals, expected income levels, and overall tax position.

Book my free call back
How dwello Supports Landlords
We're seeing a fascinating mix of clients in the modern market:
Book my free call back
We understand the whole market.
From first-time landlord-friendly lenders to those specialising in large portfolio applications, we know who's lending what and to whom.
We make the process streamlined.
Buy-to-let underwriting is actually more straightforward than residential mortgages because underwriters are assessing the property's affordability, not complex personal circumstances. When the rental income and property value stack up, these applications tend to be quite stress-free.
We think about your bigger picture.
Whether you're looking at HMOs for maximum rental yields, considering company vs personal structures, or planning a multi-property strategy, we'll help you make decisions that work long-term.
We handle complex cases.
From remortgaging large portfolios to structuring first-time investments with family gifts, we've seen it all and know how to get deals done efficiently.
Limited Company vs Personal Ownership
This choice affects everything from mortgage rates to tax bills, so it's worth getting right from the start.
Personal
Consider personal ownership if:
This is likely to be a single investment or small portfolio
You want the lowest mortgage rates and fees
You're not concerned about inheritance tax implications
You're not concerned about inheritance tax implications
Limited
Consider limited company if:
You're planning to build a substantial portfolio
You're a higher-rate taxpayer
You don't mind slightly higher borrowing costs for better tax efficiency
You don't mind slightly higher borrowing costs for better tax efficiency
Remember, you'll still sign personal guarantees either way, so the "limited liability" aspect is somewhat theoretical when it comes to mortgage lending.
Buy to Let FAQs
All your questions answered...
What rental yield should I be targeting?
How long does a buy-to-let mortgage application take?
Can I get consent to let when I move?
What if I've never been a landlord before?

Enquire Now

Ready to explore buy-to-let investment? Whether you're taking your first steps into property investment or expanding an existing portfolio, we'll assess your situation and explain your options clearly.

We don't just arrange mortgages -- we help you understand the tax implications, structure decisions, and long-term strategy that'll make your investment work harder for you.

Call us today for expert buy-to-let mortgage advice tailored to your investment goals.

Book my free call back
The information contained in this article does not constitute financial or mortgage advice from Dwello Mortgages. It is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. No information contained constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement or offer by Dwello.

Dwello is not making any representations or warranties, and assumes no liability, for the content provided in this article, including any third party information. Consumers should always consult their own financial advisors before making any mortgage or remortgage decisions based on this type of general market commentary and analysis.

All mortgage pricing, rate scenarios and cost comparisons used are hypothetical examples. Actual rates, fees and mortgage costs may vary based on the specific lender and the individual borrower's personal financial circumstances.

Dwello Mortgages, a trading style of Dwello Mortgages Limited is an appointed representative of HL Partnership Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Dwello Mortgages Limited is registered in England and Wales with company number 14432864. Registered Office: St James House, Hollinswood Road, Telford TF2 9TW

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend upon your circumstances but will be agreed with you before proceeding.

Dwello Mortgages, a trading style of Dwello Mortgages Limited is an appointed representative of HL Partnership Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Dwello Mortgages Limited is registered in England and Wales with company number 14432864. Registered Office: St James House, Hollinswood Road, Telford TF2 9TWThe guidance and/ or information contained within this website is subject to the UK regulatory regime and is therefore targeted at consumers based in the UK