Buy to Let applicant criteria
Lenders look closely at the background and experience of the applicant when assessing a Buy to Let mortgage.
Age
The minimum age for a Buy to Let mortgage is typically 18, however many lenders will only accept applicants aged 21 or 25 and above. Maximum age limits also apply, particularly where the mortgage term runs into later life.
Applicant status
Your Buy to Let experience plays a key role in which lenders and products are available.
- First time buyers – most lenders will not approve Buy to Let applications for first time buyers, though a small number may consider exceptions.
- First time landlords – applicants who own their own home but have no Buy to Let properties may have more options.
- Experienced landlords – those with existing Buy to Let portfolios typically have access to the widest range of lenders.
For experienced landlords, some lenders apply limits on the number of properties held with them. In these cases, portfolios may need to be spread across multiple lenders.
Residency and location
Most Buy to Let lenders require applicants to be resident in the UK. Expats living and working abroad may find Buy to Let options limited, although specialist lenders may be available in certain circumstances.
Credit history
Your credit history will always influence Buy to Let mortgage availability.
Applicants with missed payments, defaults, or other adverse credit may still be considered depending on the severity, frequency, and how recent the issue was. However, poor credit will usually reduce the number of available lenders and increase interest rates.
Income requirements
Many Buy to Let lenders impose a minimum personal income requirement, commonly around £25,000 per year.
Some lenders do not apply a formal minimum income requirement, but if you do not meet standard income thresholds the range of available lenders will be reduced.
Deposit requirements
Buy to Let mortgages usually require a minimum deposit of 25% of the property value.
For example, a Buy to Let purchase priced at £100,000 would typically require a minimum deposit of £25,000.
Buy to Let property criteria
Not all properties are treated equally by Buy to Let lenders.
Property type
Most lenders will consider standard residential properties such as detached, semi-detached, terraced homes, townhouses, and bungalows.
Some lenders may restrict lending on studio flats, ex-local authority properties, or non-standard construction if they perceive higher resale risk.
Purchase price
Most Buy to Let lenders in Northern Ireland impose a minimum purchase price, often around £50,000.
Tenant criteria
The intended tenant type can affect Buy to Let mortgage availability.
Some lenders restrict or refuse applications where the property is intended to be let to:
- Students
- Tenants receiving rental support or housing benefits
If you intend to let the property to a close family member, the mortgage may fall under regulated Buy to Let rules, which affects lender choice.
Unsure if you meet Buy to Let criteria?
Buy to Let criteria vary widely between lenders, and small details can make a big difference.
Speak to one of our mortgage brokers today for a free assessment and clear guidance on your Buy to Let options.