What to look for in a buy-to-let mortgage

Successfully getting a buy-to-let mortgage depends largely on the lenders, who scrutinise many applications to ensure their money is safe. However, it is also imperative that borrowers strongly scrutinise the lenders in return, to ensure they get the best deal possible.

The key to a successful buy-to-let investment is securing a good mortgage deal. If you are able to minimise your mortgage payments while maximising your return, you will be able to benefit from a much higher yield than savings accounts offer.

Interest and repayments

Two of the most important points to consider when applying for a mortgage are how much money you have to pay back, and how much interest is charged on that amount.

The lower the interest you have to pay, the less you have to pay during the term. However, unfortunately it isn’t purely a case of finding the mortgage with the lowest interest rate, because there can be many “hidden” fees which make it rise quite highly.

The main reason of going in for a buy-to-let investment is to make more money than you would with a pension scheme, or with a savings account. However, you need to remember that while the potential rewards are much greater, there is also much more risk and greater complications. Failing to secure the best mortgage deal, or not paying close attention to all the details, could see you lose a lot of money.

Property potential

Without tenants, you won’t receive the income required to pay the buy-to-let mortgage off. Therefore, it is crucial that you think carefully about the property you are going to purchase and let, to make it in high-demand amongst prospective tenants.

If you pick a property with good transport links, it may be best for singles and young professionals. If it’s near schools, it may be best for families. Identifying the right property and the most suitable tenant is really important for boosting your chances of finding a tenant.

Certain property types will be in much greater demand in certain areas. Your goal with buy-to-let is to receive a rental income that works out at 125 per cent of the mortgage repayment, and you won’t be able to succeed with a run-down property in an area where there’s many alternative options.

A suitable deposit

The size of your deposit can play a big role too. If you can afford a bigger deposit, you might benefit from a better mortgage deal, as you don’t need to borrow as much money from the lenders.

Although with buy-to-let mortgages you generally need a deposit of at least 25 per cent of the property’s value, don’t go overboard and go for a deposit that’s too big, and actually leaves you struggling financially. Be realistic with your deposit.