Buy to Let Experts

Are you considering purchasing a buy to let property?

As a landlord, it is also important to consider how you would meet the mortgage if your income stopped. We can discuss life insurance and income protection alongside your buy to let mortgage.

Quanstrom Financial is here to ensure that your investment works hard for you, by ensuring you are on the most competitive mortgage scheme available. Whether you are buying a standard buy to let, limited company buy to let, holiday let or HMO, we can help!

Buy-to-let mortgages, explained

Deposit: buy-to-let mortgages typically require a minimum deposit of 25%, with the most competitive rates usually available from around 35-40% deposit.

Rental income: lenders assess affordability using a rental cover (ICR) test - rent typically needs to cover the stressed mortgage payment by at least 125% for basic-rate taxpayers and limited companies, rising to around 145% for higher-rate taxpayers borrowing personally.

Interest-only options: many buy-to-let mortgages are arranged on an interest-only basis to improve monthly cash flow, though you'll need a credible plan to repay the capital at the end of the term.

Additional Stamp Duty: buy-to-let and second home purchases currently attract a 5% Stamp Duty surcharge on top of standard rates, payable from the first pound of the purchase price above £40,000 (figures correct as of August 2026).

Frequently asked questions

How much deposit do I need for a buy-to-let mortgage?

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Most lenders ask for a minimum deposit of 25%, though you'll usually access the best rates with a deposit of 35-40% or more.

How much rental income do I need?

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Lenders stress-test the rent against the mortgage payment, typically wanting rental income to cover at least 125% (basic-rate taxpayers and limited companies) to 145% (higher-rate taxpayers) of the stressed monthly payment. We'll help you work out what rent you'd need for a given loan.

Should I choose interest-only or capital repayment?

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Many landlords choose interest-only to keep monthly costs lower, provided they have a clear plan to repay the loan at the end of the term - such as selling the property or using other savings. Use the calculator above to compare both options.

Do I pay extra Stamp Duty on a buy-to-let?

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Yes, buy-to-let and second home purchases currently attract a 5% Stamp Duty surcharge on top of the standard rates. We'd always recommend checking the current rates with your solicitor before exchanging.

Should I buy through a limited company?

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This depends on your individual tax position, portfolio size, and future plans. We'll talk you through the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision, alongside your accountant.

Read our guide to mortgages for limited company directors