Buy-To-Let Landlord - Pros And Cons

Firstly

• You’ll need to arrange a buy-to-let mortgage on your property. This can be from your existing residential mortgage provider or another lender.
• You can either manage the property yourself or have a letting agent handle things like finding new tenants and coordinating repairs/maintenance, etc.
• You’ll still be expected to meet mortgage repayments even if your property is empty.

Pros

• Property is still seen as a relatively safe long-term investment.
• By renting, you can generate an income from your property to pay the mortgage and any additional costs.
• You can offset some of your expenses and costs against tax (make sure you consult a tax professional).

Cons

• You’ll have to be able to pay the mortgage even if your property is empty.
• Stamp duty is higher on buy-to-let properties than those for simple residential use.
• You will be responsible for maintaining the property in good condition, as well as ensuring that it meets all the legal requirements for landlords (Gas Safe inspections, electrical PAT testing, etc.

You don’t have to stay with your existing residential mortgage provider when becoming a landlord – don’t be afraid to shop around for the best buy-to-let mortgage deals for your needs.