The situation
New landlords often lead with the property and back into the finance. Better to lead with the finance strategy (Ltd Co vs personal, interest-only vs repayment, hold horizon) and let it shape the property choice.
How we approach it
We start the conversation with your overall strategy — how many properties, over what horizon, what income vs capital growth — then build the first purchase to fit. First deal usually straightforward mortgage; portfolio strategy shapes the second onwards.
What that looks like in practice
- Ltd Co vs personal decision made with tax adviser input
- First-time landlord BTL products across a wide lender panel
- Interest-only vs repayment modelled for your hold horizon
- Product transfer strategy planned before you fix
- Second-and-onwards portfolio-scaling advice from day one
Typical timeline
- Week 1Strategy conversation, structure decision, mortgage in principle.
- Week 2-6Property found, application, valuation, offer.
- Week 6-10Completion.
Common questions
Ltd Co or personal for a first BTL?
Higher-rate taxpayers usually Ltd Co for new purchases now; basic-rate taxpayers often personal. Speak to a tax adviser before deciding — the decision matters.
How much deposit do I need?
Typically 25% — 20% possible with the right lender, 30-35% often gets better rate. Rental cover often the binding constraint.
Interest-only or repayment?
Interest-only for portfolio scaling and yield focus; repayment for gradual equity build. Rare to do both — pick a strategy and stick to it.
Start the portfolio properly
Send an outline of your goals — we'll shape the first mortgage around a portfolio strategy, not just this deal.