Buy-to-Let Remortgages

Remortgaging a buy-to-let (BTL) property is usually quite straightforward, but be aware that if your circumstances have changed, it can be a little more complicated.

The main objective of most buy to let remortgages is to get the best deal you can, so in this article we’ll guide you through the process to make sure that happens, reveal what rates you can expect and explain how the right broker can help you get the best deal.

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Can you remortgage a buy-to-let?

Yes. Most lenders will allow you to remortgage a buy-to-let property after six months. And if you wait longer than six months, you may find a better range of deals to choose from.

The deal you get also depends on the reason you want to remortgage, and may affect how the mortgage provider views your application.

An experienced mortgage broker, one who specialises in remortgaging buy-to-lets can save you both time and money, by finding exactly the right lender to approach.

How to remortgage a buy-to-let property

In most cases, applying for a buy-to-let remortgage is usually no more difficult than refinancing a residential property, but a bit of  preliminary work from your end will help your application.

Here are a couple of things we’d recommend you do before you put in your application.

1. Have essential documents ready: In most cases, you’ll need to have bank statements covering at least the past 3 months. Proof that you’re living at your current address, and make sure you are on the electoral roll (many lenders may reject an application if you are not on the electoral roll). You’ll also need your mortgage paperwork for your buy-to-let property and a record of your rental income.
2. Calculate your loan-to-value ratio: First add the amount of equity you hold in your property to any additional borrowing you need and work out what the property is worth (you can check services like Zoopla or Mouseprice for a rough estimate based on the value of similar homes in the same area). Next, divide the total loan by the value of your property and multiply by 100 to calculate your loan-to-value ratio.
3. Talk with a specialist buy-to-let broker: Next, it’s highly recommended that you speak to a mortgage broker, particularly one who specialises in buy-to-let remortgages. Rather than being an expense, a good broker can save you time and a substantial amount of money over the term of the remortgage by finding the best deals. They’ll guide you through the application, offering the right advice and finding a mortgage provider who specialises in buy-to-let remortgages.

We offer a free, broker-matching service, that will quickly assess your needs and circumstances, and then pair you with a mortgage advisor who’s ideally placed to help you get the best deal when refinancing your investment property – Make an enquiry to get started.

Why remortgage a buy-to-let?

There are a whole range of very good reasons why you may want to refinance your buy-to-let property, the most obvious being to find a more favourable interest rate and, subsequently, lower your monthly repayments.

If you’ve just been moved to a lender’s standard variable rate (SVR), then it makes sense to look for a better deal, either with another mortgage provider, or your existing lender.

Other reasons might include –

• Wanting a deposit for another property. If you want to increase your property portfolio, remortgaging to release equity can be an effective way of generating the cash for a deposit on another buy-to-let
• Property renovations or improvements. Many lenders are happy to help you remortgage to fund home improvements as it could increase the value of the property
• Consolidating debt. This is a less attractive reason for lenders. Some may not consider it at all, as it is seen as increased risk due to the debt being incurred in the first place. Other mortgage providers may limit the amount of equity you can release
• Buying out a partner. Using equity release to buy out a partner by remortgaging is usually acceptable with most lenders. As long as you meet the usual affordability checks and keep within their loan to value (LTV) limits, it should be relatively simple
• To fund life events and purchases. Most lenders will entertain a remortgage for equity release for almost any legal and worthwhile purpose. It could be to finance a wedding, new car, holiday etc.

What are the typical buy-to-let remortgage rates?

At the time of writing, buy-to-let remortgage rates are at an all-time low. This is not to say that this will last forever. But it is a good time to see if you can find a better interest rate.

Below are a few examples –

The above is indicative and for demonstrative purposes only. Rates and fees can change at any time without notice. Contact a buy-to-let mortgage broker for the most up-to-date information.

Why going direct to a lender is not recommended

Approaching a high street mortgage provider directly can leave footprints all over your credit rating, which is something you need to avoid at all costs. Moreover, you’d be limiting yourself to just one set of remortgage deals when there’s a whole market out there.

The lowest interest rate may not be the best deal when you take fees and charges into account, so the best option is to talk to an experienced broker who is an expert in buy-to-let remortgages.

They will know the best lenders to approach (without leaving footprints all over your credit rating) and those offering the most competitive rates, including fees and charges. The brokers we work with also have access to exclusive deals that aren’t available to the general public.

What fees and charges will apply?

Remortgaging a buy-to-let can incur fees and charges from the mortgage provider. Some lenders may also insist on a valuation, with the costs associated with that, and there are solicitor’s fees to consider.

It’s very important that you consult with a fully qualified accountant or tax consultant to fully understand, and plan for, your tax obligations.

Will your rent cover agents’ fees, maintenance and interest? Most lenders require that the rent received is high enough to cover your mortgage payments by 125%, while some may insist on 145% or higher.

What about if you have bad credit?

Yes. Depending on the age, severity and reason for your bad credit, this could be possible. All mortgage providers are different, and have different criteria when dealing with bad credit, so approaching the right mortgage lender is paramount here.

A few lenders may overlook a late payment or two in the last 12 months, but not a bankruptcy or repossession. The likelihood of getting a buy-to-let mortgage with bad credit increases the older the bad credit mark becomes, and some lenders might consider your application if the bad credit was the result of an unexpected life event, rather than general financial mismanagement.

Read our guide to bad credit buy-to-let mortgages for more information.

Get matched with a specialist buy-to-let bad credit mortgage broker

As you can see, there are quite a few things to consider when applying for a buy-to-let remortgage, but with the right advice, it can go smoothly and potentially save you a lot of time and money.

Everyone has unique financial circumstances, which is why it’s important that you are matched with the right buy-to-let mortgages broker, one who fully understands your needs and financial situation, and has the right contacts and experience to help you get the best possible remortgage deal.

We offer a free, broker-matching service that will quickly assess your needs and circumstances to pair you with a mortgage advisor who specialise in buy-to-let remortgages. Call 0808 189 0463 or make an enquiry to get started with them today.