Buy To Let Solicitors
Helping you unlock the potential of owning a rental property
Our specialist buy-to-let solicitors are here to help
In today’s dynamic market, the demand for rental properties continues to surge, presenting ample opportunities for investors. However, navigating the intricacies of buy-to-let transactions requires expert guidance. That’s where we come in.
How does a buy-to-let mortgage work?
The vast majority of buy-to-let mortgages are provided on an interest-only basis (although some are available as a repayment mortgage). This means you will only pay the interest each month on the loan, not the capital amount, and will therefore have to repay the loan in full at the end of the mortgage term. It’s essential that you have a long-term plan in place for how you will pay off the loan in full, whether this is through charging enough rent to cover the cost, or selling the property for a profit and using the proceeds.
Whether you’re taking your first step into the realm of property investment or expanding your existing portfolio, our seasoned professionals are committed to simplifying the process for you. We understand that each transaction is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and goals.
From the initial stages of property assessment to the finalisation of contracts, we provide comprehensive support every step of the way. Our goal is not only to facilitate a seamless transaction but also to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.
With our unwavering dedication and expertise in buy-to-let conveyancing, you can rest assured that your investment is in capable hands. Let us help you unlock the full potential of your property ventures and embark on a rewarding journey towards financial growth.
Wherever you are on your journey, our legal advisors can help. Call us today on 0330 024 0333 or use the button below to complete our contact form.Our Buy To Let team
How our Buy To Let experts can help
Streamlined communication coordination
When you entrust us with your transaction, we become your dedicated liaison, ensuring seamless communication among all involved parties. Our role encompasses being the primary point of contact for your buyer’s solicitors, mortgage provider, estate agents, HM Land Registry, and any other pertinent stakeholders. By centralising communication, we minimise delays, address queries promptly, and facilitate a smooth progression of your transaction journey. Trust us to manage the intricate web of interactions, so you can focus on what matters most to you.
Legal documentation
Entrust us with the meticulous drafting and thorough review of all legal documentation and contracts essential to the seamless sale or purchase of your buy-to-let property. We ensure every detail is expertly crafted, offering you peace of mind and assurance throughout the transaction process.
Facilitating seamless fund transfers
Our dedicated team specialises in overseeing the smooth and timely transfer of funds between buyers and sellers, ensuring that transactions are completed within the agreed-upon timelines. With our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to efficiency, you can trust us to handle every aspect of the transfer process, leaving you free to focus on your core business objectives.
Streamlined tax advice
Gain peace of mind with our specialised HMRC and Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) services. Our team navigates the complexities of HMRC correspondence and payments, ensuring accuracy and compliance. With expert SDLT advice, we optimise transactions to minimise tax liabilities.
Unlocking the legal landscape of buy-to-let ownership
Discover the intricacies of buy-to-let ownership with our comprehensive service. Our expert team delves into the legal framework, ensuring you grasp both your rights and responsibilities as a landlord. From navigating tenancy agreements to understanding property maintenance obligations, we equip you with the knowledge essential for successful and compliant property management. Gain confidence in your role as a landlord with our tailored guidance and empower yourself to make informed decisions in the dynamic rental market.
Remortgaging
Transitioning your current residence into a rental property? Our remortgaging service streamlines the process by converting your existing mortgage to a buy-to-let mortgage. We handle all communication and paperwork with lenders, ensuring a seamless experience. Trust us to optimize your financial arrangements, allowing you to maximize your property investment potential.
Why choose Shakespeare Martineau?
- As we’re a full service firm, we’re excellently positioned to support and advice on additional matters, such as any disputes that may arise with future tenants.
- Our team of residential conveyancing solicitors is always on hand via phone or email, but we have offices located across the UK if you'd rather have that face-to-face contact.
- You will have a single point of contact so the process flows as seamlessly as possible.
Buy To Let frequently asked questions
Each lender will have its own criteria but generally, to obtain a buy-to-let mortgage, you’ll likely need to already own your own home (either outright or with a mortgage) and have a good credit rating. However, you may still be able to apply for a buy-to-let mortgage even if you don’t already own a property. Lenders may also insist on you meeting a minimum income threshold, as well as being within specific lower and upper age brackets.
While the idea of renting out a property for extra income obviously brings advantages, it also comes with disadvantages too. If you have a period where your property is empty with no tenants, not only will you have to cover the cost of the buy-to-let mortgage payments, you also have the responsibility for the upkeep of the property, such as utilities, maintenance etc. If your buy-to-let property is a second home you’ll also have to pay extra stamp duty – this is currently 3% on top of the standard stamp duty land tax rates.
A lender will want to ensure your rental income will cover the cost of the buy-to-let mortgage; therefore, the amount you can borrow will be linked to the amount of rental income you expect to receive.
A relative cannot live in a property that has been purchased with a standard buy-to-let mortgage – under the conditions of this type of mortgage your property must be rented out to someone you do not know. However, you can apply for a family buy-to-let mortgage if you intend to rent out your property to relatives, such as a son or daughter.
What our clients say about us
How the Buy To Let process works
Not everyone is aware of how the process of engaging Buy To Let solicitors works, so we’ve provided an overview below to give you some peace of mind
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The first stage is to get in touch with us using the button below – you will then be assigned to one of our Buy To Let specialists. Alternatively, you can reach us on 0330 024 0333.
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You’ll then receive a free 15-minute consultation within 24 hours via Zoom or telephone to discuss the issues you’re facing.
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You are then provided with a transparent breakdown of our costs and, if you would like to proceed, we send you a pack of onboarding documents
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Following this, we will guide and support you through the process of achieving a resolution that works for you and your family.
Free Checklist
Key requirements for a buy-to-let mortgage
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Credit rating – you should have a good credit rating, showing that you don’t already have too many liabilities such as other loans or credit cards.
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Existing homeowner - some lenders require that you already own your own home (either with a mortgage or outright). However, this isn’t always the case and first-time buyers may still be able to apply for a buy-to-let mortgage.
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Minimum earnings – some lenders may have a requirement for you to have a minimum income that is separate from the rental income from the proposed buy-to-let property. Although every lender is different, this is usually around £25,000 a year.
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Age requirements – Although some lenders will have a maximum age requirement (this is usually around 75 years of age), some will also have a minimum age requirement
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Deposit – again, every lender will have different requirements, but it’s usual for a lender to require a 25% deposit for a buy-to-let mortgage.
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Projected earnings – the amount a lender is willing to lend you will depend on how much rental income you’re expecting to receive from your buy-to-let property. The lender will want to ensure the rental income can cover the cost of the buy-to-let mortgage repayments, plus a little extra too.
If you’d like to speak to a member of our team, please fill out the enquiry form. We will aim to reply to your query within 2 hours
Need to talk to someone sooner? You can call use at the number below
Call Us: 0330 024 0333
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