Whether you currently own or are looking to invest in UK rental property, researching the best buy to let mortgage rates is likely to be high on your agenda.
This is especially true given the challenges landlords have faced in recent years – like changes to mortgage interest tax relief. Where once landlords were able to claim 100% of mortgage interest as tax relief, this has been steadily reduced by 25% each year – and now, in April 2020, we’ll finally see tax relief reduced to 0%, eating into profits for many investors.
Fortunately, a new decade has brought a spate of positive reports about the direction of travel for the UK’s buy to let mortgage rates.
Research shows buy to let mortgage rates have declined
Brokers across the industry report positive sentiment around the market, while others expect that buy to let mortgage rates will become more competitive in 2020, and the team at Articus Finance expect this to ring true at the higher end of the market, too.
In fact, a recent report showed that buy to let mortgage rates have steadily declined in recent years. It revealed that, in 2019, the average two-year fixed rate was 3.07%, rising to 3.56% for five-year rates. Five years ago, in comparison, these figures stood at 3.50% for a two-year deal and 4.39% for a five-year fix.
This is excellent news – especially for those who own high-value property, where monthly repayments can be significant.
What else is happening in the buy to let mortgage market?
There’s more good news that goes beyond just buy to let mortgage rates. At Articus Finance, we’ve seen that many lenders are considering other factors that impact landlords when it comes to their property finance. And much of this seems to be manifesting itself in positive outcomes.
As the new year gets underway, some lenders are revamping their buy to let products and criteria. For example, we’ve seen lenders increase their maximum term up to 40 years – which is perhaps a reflection of a wider market trend, not just in buy to let mortgage finance. This may be handy for buy to let applicants looking to lower their monthly repayments.
We’ve also witnessed some increases in maximum loan to value (LTV) for buy to let property – which should be well received by those put off bigger investments that need a prohibitively large deposit.
What next for the buy to let mortgage market?
All in all, the signs look promising for the buy to let mortgage market in 2020. However, if you have unusual circumstances – such as being an expat or foreign national, or requiring a very large loan – the advice of an expert broker will still be invaluable. To learn more, download our free guide today.