Buy to Let Self-Employed

Buy to Let Mortgages for Self-Employed

Interested in letting out a property? The self-employed sometimes worry that it may be difficult to get a Buy to Let mortgage. Fortunately, if you have a deposit saved and the property will generate a good level of rent, it should be easy to find a competitive Buy to Let mortgage deal.

How does a Buy to Let Mortgage work?

Buy to Let mortgages are much like residential mortgages, although they often have higher interest rates. You will also need a substantial deposit – around 25% of the purchase price is the norm. 

You can choose between repayment or interest-only Buy to Let products, although many landlords opt for interest-only. The lower payments offer you a better profit on your rental income but you will need to plan ahead to repay the loan at the end of the term as you are only repaying the interest and the capital amount is still outstanding.

What do I need to consider when getting a Self-Employed Buy to Let Mortgage?

Self-employed applications for a Buy to Let mortgage are usually more straightforward than a residential loan. Lenders are less interested in your personal income; instead they focus on the rent the property will generate. Lenders usually require the rent to cover 125% of the monthly mortgage payment. 

Some lenders do set minimum income requirements however. The reason behind this requirement is to ensure that you are still able to meet the mortgage payment if you don’t have a tenant in the property for a month or two. 

You may not necessarily be asked for proof of personal income. 

A further factor to consider is that most lenders require you to own your own home.

Is it best to Buy to Let as an individual or through a Limited Company?

As you may know, many landlords set up limited companies as a way of reducing their tax bills. It’s a more common approach if you’re a higher rate taxpayer as it means your rental profits will be taxed at 40%. 

A limited company however, pays corporation tax at just 19%. There are various pros and cons to setting up a company so seek expert advice before making a decision.

What is a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)?

An SPV is a limited company set up purely for Buy to Let. If you buy a property through an SPV you’re treated as a business rather than as an individual, which changes the tax and fees involved.

SPVs can only receive rental income and they are usually the only type of company that Buy to Let providers will lend to.

Take time to weigh up the pros and cons and seek professional advice before deciding whether to purchase your Buy to Let property through an SPV or as an individual. Changing your approach could mean paying additional fees and potentially Capital Gains Tax.