British landlords have seen many changes to the Buy-to-Let sector in recent years, some of which have driven some landlords to sell up. From the tenant’s fees bill, stamp duty surcharge and stricter affordability testing it’s been enough for some landlords to leave the market and look for alternative investment opportunities. So, how do First-time landlords fare?
Is it all doom and gloom? Is it worth purchasing your first Buy-to-Let property when seasoned landlords are leaving the market?
If you’re thinking about purchasing your first investment property and becoming a landlord for the first time then right now may be a good time to consider your options. The number of deals available for first-time landlords has reached a record high, according to figures from Moneyfacts.
Over the past five years the number of Buy-to-Let mortgage options on offer for potential first-time landlords has more than doubled. In 2014 there were 645 deals on offer – compare that with a massive 1,405 deals that are available today! Providers are continuing to offer a wider selection of products amidst the current uncertainty in the property market.
Falling rates since 2014.
In the past year alone, product numbers have increased by 137 and two-year fixed rates now start below 1.5%, Moneyfacts states. As well as this, for those of you who would be looking to fix your rate for longer, you could benefit from a significant improvement in rates over the past five years. The average five-year deal for first-time landlords has fallen by 1.16% since July 2014, down from 4.68% to 3.52% today.
This is why, when thinking about purchasing your first investment property and becoming a first-time landlord and being faced with so many options and having a host of different products available, seeking professional advice can be invaluable.
*Average deals and rates available correct as of July 1st
If you’re thinking of becoming a first-time landlord and want to discuss your options, contact Guild Mortgage Services today.