Number of deals available to first-time landlords has ‘boomed to a record high’

The choice of first-time landlord buy-to-let products has increased to an all-time high, according to the latest research from Moneyfacts.co.uk.

The data reveals that the number of deals available to first-time landlords has risen sharply over the past five years, up from 645 deals in 2014 to its existing rate of 1,405.

In the past year alone, product numbers have increased by 137.

Rachel Springall, finance expert at Moneyfacts.co.uk, commented: “Entering the buy-to-let market hasn’t been without its hurdles, and almost two years since the PRA introduced rules expected to tighten lending, the move doesn’t seem to have shaken up lenders attitudes to attract first-time landlords. In fact, the number of deals available to these individuals has now boomed to a record high.”

Fixed rates for first-time landlords currently start from less than 1.5% on a two-year fixed deal, but Moneyfacts.co.uk advises prospective borrowers to carefully consider the associated upfront product fees.

Buy-to-let market analysis – First-time landlord products

Source: Moneyfacts.co.uk

Springall points out that borrowers must ensure they weigh-up the true cost of any deal before they commit; for example, choosing the lowest two-year rate in the market from Barclays Mortgage at 1.46% would cost £20,901 in repayments after the first two years, which includes its £1,795 product fee, based on £200,000 repayment mortgage over a 25-year term.

However, if they opted for a deal with a lower fee, such as the mortgage from Post Office Money priced at 1.48% with a £1,495 product fee, they would have saved £255, as the repayment would be £20,646 over two years.

She added: “First-time landlords concerned about potential rate rises may instead consider a five-year fixed deal, and thankfully rates have fallen in this sector since 2014. In fact, the average five-year fixed rate for first-time landlords has fallen by 1.16% since July 2014, down from 4.68% to 3.52% today.

“As the market is awash with economic uncertainties and regulatory adjustments, consumers would do well to first seek independent financial advice if they are considering a buy-to-let investment, not just to find the best product, but to also review these impacting influences.”

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