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How Let to Buy Works

Let to buy involves two transactions: converting your existing residential mortgage into a buy-to-let, and taking out a new residential mortgage on your next home. Both happen at the same time, or in close sequence. The result is that you own two properties, one rented out and one you live in.

There are two ways to handle the existing property. The first is consent to let, where your current lender gives permission for you to rent the property without changing the mortgage. The second, and usually more suitable route, is to remortgage the existing property onto a buy-to-let product at the same time as taking out your new residential mortgage. This gives you a proper long-term structure.

Helping You Buy Sooner

Affordability and the Financial Picture

The key challenge with let to buy is affordability. You need to demonstrate to mortgage lenders that you can service both mortgages. Most lenders assess the new residential mortgage based on your personal income minus any committed expenditure, which includes the buy-to-let mortgage payment. Where the rental income fully covers the BTL mortgage, lenders are often more relaxed about the second transaction.

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In practice this means two separate affordability calculations running simultaneously. We coordinate both to ensure the right lender is used for each property, that the applications are submitted in the right order, and that neither transaction puts the other at risk.

Let to buy works particularly well for homeowners who have built up good equity in their current home, whose property is in a strong rental market, and who are ready to move into something larger or in a different area. It also appeals to those who do not want to sell in a slow market, preferring to hold the property until conditions improve.

Before deciding on let to buy, it is worth modelling out the full financial picture. This includes what your new residential mortgage will cost, what your buy-to-let mortgage will cost, what rent the existing property is likely to achieve, and what your net position looks like after tax. Section 24 changes mean rental income is taxed differently for higher rate taxpayers than it used to be, which affects the calculation.

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We work through all of this with you at the start of the process so there are no surprises. If let to buy works for your numbers, we will tell you. If it does not, we will tell you that too and discuss the alternatives.

Some clients in this position also consider whether a limited company structure for the rental property makes sense from a tax perspective. This adds complexity to the transaction but can improve long-term profitability. We can advise on the buy-to-let mortgage products available and refer you to a specialist accountant for the tax side.

Let to buy is a more complex transaction than either a standard remortgage or a straightforward house purchase. We handle both sides of the transaction together, which keeps everything coordinated and reduces the risk of one side falling through because the other hit a problem.

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We are whole-of-market, fee free, and experienced in coordinating let to buy transactions. Get in touch to talk through whether it makes sense for your situation.

If you are considering portfolio landlord mortgages or letting more than one property, we can help with that too.

Buying a second property triggers the 3 percent SDLT surcharge on the new residential purchase, even though you intend to live in it. This is because you temporarily own two properties at the point of completion. Factor this cost into your calculations before committing.

Step by Step

Is Let to Buy Right for You?

Let to buy tends to suit you if:

1
Initial Consultation

You have equity in your current property and want to keep it rather than sell

2
Agreement in Principle

Your property is in a strong rental area and is likely to generate a solid monthly income

3
Property Search & Offer

You can demonstrate income sufficient to support a new residential mortgage alongside the BTL

4
Full Mortgage Application

You are ready to take on the responsibilities of being a landlord

5
Mortgage Offer Issued

You have considered the stamp duty and tax implications and the numbers still work

6
Exchange & Completion

You want to hold the existing property as a long-term investment rather than take whatever the market gives you on a quick sale

Get in touch for a free conversation. We will look at both sides of the transaction together and tell you honestly whether let to buy is the right move for your circumstances.