A Buy-To-Let Mortgage for a First-Time UK Landlord

Loan Amount:
£180,000

Property Value:
£277,000

LTV:
65%

Initial Circumstance

A broker with whom we have worked previously contacted their local Business Development Manager at Market Financial Solutions to discuss a case for one of their clients. The client was a foreign national who was currently in the UK looking for their first UK investment property. They wished to purchase a buy-to-let in London through an SPV.

The client needed to move quickly, due to the developer serving notice. To ensure that they did not lose their deposit, we got straight on to the case and started our process.

Our Solutions

Whilst the client was new to being a UK landlord, they did have a proven portfolio abroad, and we were therefore able to take this previous experience into account when assessing their track record. We also know the broker well, which meant that we were able to communicate with them and the client in the way which that they prefer. In this case, this was by phone. Our BDM was in regular contact ensuring they knew exactly where the process was, and how things were progressing at each stage. In return, the broker on this case was as always extremely diligent, making lives easier at Market Financial Solutions and making sure we could all move as quickly as needed.

Benefits

Due to our speed, we were able to complete the application and have funds deployed with bridging speed. We worked to the client’s timeline and got funds to them well before their deadline set by the developer. The BDM on the case said, “It was a pleasure to be able to get this client their first UK property – may it be the first of many”.

Shortly after, the client returned to us for finance for their next BTL property. They are able to take advantage of a lower rate on this case, as they are no longer a first time UK landlord.

FAQ

Why do first-time landlords struggle to secure funding through mainstream lenders?

Many high street lenders have strict criteria when it comes to buy-to-let mortgages, especially for first-time landlords. Without a proven rental track record, these borrowers can be overlooked, despite potentially owning a strong asset. In this case, the borrower needed funds to secure their first buy-to-let property quickly. We stepped in with a bridging loan that looked at the bigger picture, not just a tick-box history.

How did you ensure this deal moved forward without delay?

In a competitive market, timing is crucial, especially for new landlords who need to act quickly to secure a property. We began underwriting from day one and issued indicative terms within 4 hours of the enquiry. We reviewed the asset, the borrower’s wider circumstances, and their plans for generating rental income. This approach meant we could move swiftly and complete in line with the borrower’s deadlines.

What makes Market Financial Solutions the right fit for first-time landlords?

Many lenders take a rigid view when assessing first-time buy-to-let investors, but we pride ourselves on our flexible mindset. We understand that everyone has to start somewhere. So we focus on the strength of the property, the borrower’s background, and their future plans. By structuring a facility to suit this client’s needs, we gave them the confidence and means to get their investment journey underway.

Can you support clients who don’t yet own any UK property?

Yes, absolutely. We designed our BTL mortgage or bridging loans for investors without prior UK footprint. You don’t need to own your main residence or have previous investments. We support individuals, SPVs, offshore borrowers, and those with limited records, assessing each case on its own merit, so long as you meet our key criteria like minimum income and having a sound exit strategy.