blog mortgage118

Tag: Property Investment

  • Somo Bridge Offers Below-Market Buy-to-Let Opportunities

    Somo Bridge Offers Below-Market Buy-to-Let Opportunities

    Landlords and investors can now explore a unique buy-to-let opportunity thanks to Somo’s innovative bridging finance solution. By structuring the loan against the borrower’s main residence, Somo enabled the purchase of a property that had been listed for a significantly reduced price, allowing for immediate equity creation.

    TL;DR: Somo’s bridging finance facilitated a buy-to-let purchase at a discounted price; this approach benefits landlords seeking equity and quick acquisitions.

    How Did Somo Achieve This Buy-to-Let Opportunity?

    Somo structured its financing against the borrower’s main residence, which allowed them to acquire a property that had been listed for a higher value but was purchased for a lower amount. The seller’s urgent need to relocate overseas prompted a quick sale, and an independent valuation confirmed the property’s market value. Somo was confident that the reduced purchase price was due to the seller’s circumstances rather than any issues with the property itself.

    What Does This Mean for Landlords?

    This financing approach is significant for landlords looking to expand their portfolios without the burden of high upfront costs. By using Somo’s second charge product, the borrower was able to clear existing mortgage arrears and unlock sufficient capital to fund the property purchase. This strategy not only creates substantial equity from day one but also sets the stage for refinancing onto a long-term buy-to-let mortgage.

    What Should Investors Watch Next?

    Investors should keep an eye on similar financing options that may arise in the market. The ability to purchase below market value can lead to lucrative opportunities, especially in a climate where quick sales are becoming more common. Understanding the implications of bridging finance can enhance investment strategies, particularly in the buy-to-let sector.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is bridging finance?

    Bridging finance is a short-term loan used to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one, often used in property transactions.

    How can I benefit from below-market buy-to-let deals?

    Acquiring properties below market value allows landlords to create immediate equity, which can be leveraged for refinancing or further investments in their property portfolio.

  • TAB Urges Planning Reform to Enhance Bridging Finance Sector

    TAB Urges Planning Reform to Enhance Bridging Finance Sector

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is calling for urgent planning reforms and support for landlords from the next Prime Minister. TAB, a specialist finance lender, argues that current planning delays and restrictive tax policies are hindering investment in commercial and mixed-use properties, ultimately affecting housing supply.

    TL;DR: TAB highlights the need for planning reform to expedite development approvals; this impacts landlords, investors, and the housing market by limiting regeneration efforts.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed for Bridging Finance?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, stresses the importance of a refreshed planning system with statutory deadlines and enhanced local authority resources. She advocates for a presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces into residential units, which would streamline the approval process for change-of-use applications. Rodrigues points out that while TAB is ready to provide commercial mortgages quickly, the sluggish planning system hampers timely project execution.

    How Do Current Tax Policies Affect Landlords and Bridging Finance?

    According to TAB, the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in addressing housing demand, especially as social housing supply remains insufficient. Rodrigues criticises successive governments for treating private landlords primarily as a source of tax revenue, rather than as partners in addressing housing shortages. She calls for the reinstatement of mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, the removal of the stamp duty surcharge, and the reintroduction of the Wear and Tear Allowance. These changes would alleviate financial pressures on landlords and encourage further investment in the housing market.

    What This Means for Landlords and Property Investors in Bridging Finance

    For landlords and property investors, the proposed reforms could significantly alter the investment market. By streamlining the planning process and reducing tax burdens, the government could incentivise more investment in both residential and mixed-use properties. This would not only facilitate faster project approvals but also potentially lead to a more vibrant rental market, as landlords would be better positioned to meet demand. Additionally, reforms in business rates could lower costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses, further supporting high streets and mixed-use developments.

    What Changes Are Being Suggested for Business Rates?

    Rodrigues also highlights the need for reforming business rates, which she claims are a significant obstacle for high streets and mixed-use investments. Lowering rates for independent retailers and hospitality businesses could help rejuvenate local economies and support tenants in semi-commercial properties. By creating a more favourable business environment, the next Prime Minister could support conditions that allow local businesses to thrive, ultimately benefiting the property market.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is bridging finance?

    Bridging finance is a short-term loan used to bridge the gap between immediate funding needs and longer-term financing solutions. It is often used in property transactions.

    How can planning reforms impact the property market?

    Planning reforms can expedite the approval process for development projects, making it easier for investors to convert properties and increasing the overall housing supply.

  • Planning Reform and Landlord Support: Key Issues for Bridging Finance

    Planning Reform and Landlord Support: Key Issues for Bridging Finance

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is calling for significant planning reforms and support for landlords from the next UK Prime Minister. As the housing supply crisis continues, industry leaders argue that practical changes are essential to stimulate development and support property investors.

    TL;DR: The next Prime Minister must implement planning reforms to expedite housing development; landlords are urged to receive support to meet growing housing demand.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed?

    Industry experts highlight that the current planning system is a major barrier to development. Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, emphasises the need for a refreshed planning framework that includes statutory deadlines and enhanced local authority resources. These changes would facilitate quicker approvals for change-of-use applications, enabling the conversion of vacant commercial properties into mixed-use developments. This is particularly important as the demand for housing continues to rise, and the existing planning processes are seen as cumbersome and slow.

    How Will This Impact Landlords?

    Landlords are facing increasing pressure to meet housing demand, especially as social housing supply remains insufficient. Rodrigues argues that the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in bridging this gap. However, she points out that successive governments have often viewed landlords primarily as a source of tax revenue rather than as essential contributors to housing supply. The proposed reforms include reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, scrapping the stamp duty surcharge, and bringing back the Wear and Tear Allowance. These measures would alleviate some of the financial burdens on landlords and encourage further investment in rental properties.

    What Are the Proposed Changes to Business Rates?

    In addition to planning reforms, there are calls for changes to business rates, which are seen as a significant obstacle for independent retailers and hospitality businesses. Lowering business rates could support high streets and tenants occupying semi-commercial properties. Rodrigues suggests that reducing rates for local service providers would help rejuvenate struggling high streets and stimulate economic activity in these areas.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance

    For those involved in bridging finance, the proposed reforms could lead to increased lending opportunities as the market responds to a more streamlined planning process. With quicker approvals for developments, investors may find it easier to secure funding for projects that contribute to housing supply. The current friction in the property market, exacerbated by high stamp duty rates, could also be alleviated, making transactions more viable for property investors and landlords alike. This shift could ultimately enhance the overall health of the property market and encourage more active participation from investors.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What specific reforms are being requested for planning?

    Experts are calling for a refreshed planning system with statutory deadlines, more resources for local authorities, and a presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces into residential units.

    How will changes to business rates affect landlords?

    Lower business rates could reduce costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses, supporting tenants in semi-commercial properties and potentially boosting foot traffic and economic activity in high streets.

  • Accord and ModaMortgages Cut Rates on Buy-to-Let Mortgages

    Accord and ModaMortgages Cut Rates on Buy-to-Let Mortgages

    Accord Mortgages and ModaMortgages have announced significant rate cuts in their buy-to-let mortgage offerings, impacting landlords and brokers across the UK. These adjustments come as lenders seek to enhance their competitive edge in a dynamic market, providing more attractive options for property investors.

    TL;DR: ModaMortgages has reduced rates on its buy-to-let products; Accord Mortgages is also cutting rates and minimum loan sizes, benefiting landlords and brokers alike.

    What Changes Have Accord and ModaMortgages Made to Buy-to-Let Mortgages?

    ModaMortgages has revised its limited-edition buy-to-let mortgage range, implementing rate reductions on both two- and five-year fixed-rate products. For five-year fixed rates at 75% loan-to-value (LTV), rates have been lowered, now starting for standard properties. Similarly, five-year rates for 80% LTV standard products have seen a reduction, starting for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and Multi-Unit Freehold Blocks (MUFBs).

    In the two-year fixed-rate range, rates at 75% LTV have also decreased, with starting rates for standard properties and small HMOs and MUFBs. Notably, ModaMortgages continues to offer free valuations and no application fees on its limited-edition buy-to-let products, catering to both individual and limited company landlords.

    How Are Accord Mortgages Adjusting Their Buy-to-Let Offerings?

    Effective from a specified time, Accord Mortgages will implement rate cuts on its residential new business product range. The two-year fixed rates will see reductions, while three-year fixed rates will also be cut. For those seeking long-term stability, five-year fixed-rate options will have reductions.

    Additionally, Accord is lowering the minimum loan size for selected products up to 75% LTV, making it more accessible for borrowers. The lender has also relaunched products at different LTVs starting from various rates.

    What This Means for Landlords and Brokers in Buy-to-Let Mortgages

    The recent rate cuts by ModaMortgages and Accord Mortgages present new opportunities for landlords and brokers. With more competitive rates and lower minimum loan sizes, brokers can offer clients a wider range of options tailored to their financial situations. Landlords looking to invest in buy-to-let properties will find these adjustments particularly beneficial, as they enhance affordability and potential returns on investment.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the new rates for buy-to-let mortgages?

    ModaMortgages has reduced rates for five-year fixed products for standard properties and small HMOs and MUFBs. Accord Mortgages has also cut rates on its residential range, with two-year fixes reduced.

    How do these changes affect minimum loan sizes?

    Accord Mortgages has lowered the minimum loan size for selected products, making it easier for borrowers to access finance for their buy-to-let investments.

  • Accord and ModaMortgages Cut Buy-to-Let Mortgage Rates

    Accord and ModaMortgages Cut Buy-to-Let Mortgage Rates

    Accord Mortgages and ModaMortgages have announced significant reductions in their buy-to-let mortgage rates, enhancing options for landlords and brokers. These changes come as part of a broader effort to provide more competitive products in a challenging market.

    TL;DR: ModaMortgages has cut rates on its buy-to-let range; Accord Mortgages will also reduce rates on residential products, effective July 6, 2026.

    What Changes Did ModaMortgages Make to Buy-to-Let Mortgages?

    ModaMortgages has adjusted its limited-edition buy-to-let mortgage range, implementing rate cuts across both two- and five-year fixed-rate products. For five-year fixed mortgages at 75% loan-to-value (LTV), rates have been reduced, now starting for standard properties. Similarly, five-year products at 80% LTV have seen a reduction, with rates beginning for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and Multi-Unit Freehold Blocks (MUFBs).

    In the two-year fixed-rate category, rates at 75% LTV have also decreased, starting for standard properties and for small HMOs and MUFBs. Notably, ModaMortgages continues to offer free valuations and no application fees on these products, catering to both individual and limited company landlords.

    How Is Accord Mortgages Responding to Buy-to-Let Market Changes?

    Accord Mortgages is set to refresh its residential new business product range, effective from July 6, 2026. This update includes reductions on two-year fixed rates and three-year rates. For borrowers seeking longer-term stability, five-year fixed options will feature reductions.

    Additionally, Accord is lowering the minimum loan size for selected products at 75% LTV, making it easier for more borrowers to access financing. The lender has also relaunched products at 65% LTV and at 80% LTV.

    What This Means for Landlords and Brokers in Buy-to-Let Mortgages

    The recent rate cuts from both lenders are likely to enhance the attractiveness of buy-to-let mortgages, providing landlords with more competitive financing options. For brokers, these changes offer increased flexibility in placing cases for clients, particularly with the reduced rates and continued absence of application fees from ModaMortgages.

    These adjustments may encourage more landlords to consider expanding their portfolios or refinancing existing properties, especially as the market adapts to evolving economic conditions. Brokers should stay informed about these changes to better assist their clients in navigating the mortgage market.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the new rates for buy-to-let mortgages?

    ModaMortgages now offers five-year fixed rates starting for standard properties and for small HMOs and MUFBs, while Accord Mortgages is reducing rates on various products effective July 6, 2026.

    How do these changes affect landlords?

    The rate cuts provide landlords with more affordable financing options, making it easier to invest in or refinance properties, which could lead to increased activity in the buy-to-let market.

  • Keystone Launches Streamlined BTL Products in Mortgage Market

    Keystone Launches Streamlined BTL Products in Mortgage Market

    Keystone Property Finance has announced the launch of its new special-edition House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and Multi-Unit Freehold Block (MUFB) products, aimed at simplifying the buy-to-let (BTL) mortgage market for landlords. This new range offers a competitive pricing structure, making it an attractive option for both new and existing property investors.

    TL;DR: Keystone’s new HMO and MUFB products are priced lower than their core offerings; this change benefits landlords and property investors looking for cost-effective financing options.

    What are the key features of the new products?

    The newly introduced HMO and MUFB products come with a reduction compared to Keystone’s core range. This reduction is significant for landlords managing small and large HMOs. Additionally, Keystone has streamlined its fee structure, offering clear options across its various mortgage ranges, including standard, specialist, expat, and holiday let categories.

    How does this impact the mortgage market for landlords?

    The introduction of these competitively priced products is expected to enhance competition within the buy-to-let mortgage market. Landlords can benefit from lower borrowing costs, which can improve their overall investment returns. This move may also encourage more landlords to consider expanding their portfolios, particularly in the HMO and MUFB sectors, which have seen increased demand due to the ongoing housing shortage.

    What this means for property investors

    For property investors, the launch of Keystone’s special-edition products represents an opportunity to access more affordable financing options. With rates starting lower than previous offerings, investors can potentially increase their cash flow and profitability. As the market adapts to these changes, it will be essential for investors to stay informed about evolving mortgage options and market trends. For more information, check out our current mortgage rates.

    Frequently asked questions

    What types of properties are eligible for Keystone’s new products?

    The new special-edition products are designed for House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and Multi-Unit Freehold Block (MUFB) properties, accommodating both small and large HMOs.

    How do the fees compare across Keystone’s mortgage ranges?

    Keystone’s simplified fee structure includes options applicable across its standard, specialist, expat, and holiday let mortgage ranges, providing clarity for borrowers.

  • Accord and ModaMortgages Cut Buy-to-Let Rates

    Accord and ModaMortgages Cut Buy-to-Let Rates

    Accord Mortgages and ModaMortgages have announced significant reductions in their buy-to-let mortgage rates, impacting landlords and brokers alike. These adjustments come as part of a broader strategy to enhance product offerings and provide more competitive options for investors in the property market.

    TL;DR: ModaMortgages has cut rates on its buy-to-let products; Accord will reduce rates on residential mortgages and lower minimum loan sizes, effective July 6.

    What Changes Have Been Made to Buy-to-Let Mortgages?

    ModaMortgages has repriced its limited-edition buy-to-let range, implementing reductions on both two- and five-year fixed-rate mortgages. For five-year fixed rates at 75% loan-to-value (LTV), rates have decreased, now starting for standard properties and small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and Multi-Unit Freehold Blocks (MUFBs). Similarly, the two-year fixed rates at 75% LTV have seen a reduction, with rates beginning for standard properties and small HMOs and MUFBs.

    How Will Accord Mortgages’ Changes Affect Borrowers?

    Starting July 6, 2026, Accord Mortgages will refresh its residential product range, cutting rates on two-year fixed mortgages and three-year rates. For those seeking longer-term stability, five-year fixed options will see reductions. Additionally, Accord is lowering the minimum loan size for selected products up to 75% LTV, making it easier for borrowers to access financing.

    What This Means for Landlords and Brokers

    These rate cuts provide landlords with more affordable financing options, particularly for those investing in buy-to-let properties. The reductions at 75% LTV by ModaMortgages enhance flexibility for brokers, allowing them to better serve their clients. The changes by Accord also open doors for new borrowers, especially those with smaller deposits, thanks to the relaunch of products at 65% and 80% LTV. Overall, these adjustments signal a more competitive lending environment, which could lead to increased activity in the buy-to-let market.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the new rates for ModaMortgages’ buy-to-let products?

    ModaMortgages now offers five-year fixed rates for standard properties and small HMOs and MUFBs, with two-year fixed rates available as well.

    How do Accord’s changes impact minimum loan sizes?

    Accord Mortgages has reduced the minimum loan size for selected products, making it more accessible for borrowers looking to secure financing.

  • TAB Advocates for Planning Reform and Bridging Finance Support

    TAB Advocates for Planning Reform and Bridging Finance Support

    The commercial mortgage and bridging lender TAB has called for significant reforms in planning and support for landlords from the next Prime Minister. This comes as the specialist finance sector seeks to enhance its role in funding regeneration projects and increasing housing supply, while also addressing the challenges posed by planning delays and tax policies that hinder investment.

    TL;DR: TAB urges the next Prime Minister to implement planning reforms and support landlords; these changes are essential for revitalising housing supply and economic growth.

    What Planning Reforms Does TAB Propose?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, emphasised the need for a refreshed planning system. She advocates for the introduction of statutory deadlines and increased resources for local authorities. A critical aspect of this reform is the presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces, which would streamline the approval process for change-of-use applications. This would facilitate the transformation of vacant retail and office units into mixed-use developments, enabling quicker responses to market demands.

    How Do Planning Delays Affect Investors and Landlords?

    Rodrigues pointed out that while TAB is capable of delivering commercial mortgages rapidly, the planning system is currently sluggish, impacting businesses and investors. The delays in planning approvals can stall projects that are vital for community regeneration and economic growth. By reforming the planning process, the government could unlock numerous projects and support a more dynamic property market.

    What Should the Next Government Do for Landlords?

    According to TAB, reforming the private rented sector is paramount. Landlords are still important in addressing housing demand, especially in the face of insufficient social housing. Rodrigues argues that the government has historically viewed private landlords primarily as a tax revenue source, which has led to detrimental policies. She advocates for reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, abolishing the stamp duty surcharge, and reintroducing the Wear and Tear Allowance. These measures would alleviate financial pressures on landlords and encourage investment in rental properties.

    How Does Bridging Finance Fit Into This Picture?

    Bridging finance plays a vital role in enabling quick access to capital for property investors and landlords, especially in a market affected by planning delays. With the proposed reforms, bridging finance could become an essential tool for investors looking to seize opportunities in the evolving property market. By providing fast funding solutions, bridging finance can help facilitate the conversion of properties and support the growth of the private rented sector.

    What This Means for Property Investors and Landlords

    The proposed reforms could significantly impact property investors and landlords by creating a more conducive environment for investment. By addressing planning delays and revising tax policies, the government could stimulate activity in the property market. Investors would benefit from a more straightforward process for acquiring and converting properties, while landlords would find relief from burdensome tax obligations. This shift could lead to an increase in housing supply, benefiting tenants and the wider economy.

    Frequently asked questions

    What are the main challenges facing landlords in the UK?

    Landlords in the UK face challenges such as high taxation, regulatory burdens, and planning delays that hinder their ability to invest and manage properties effectively.

    How can planning reforms benefit the housing market?

    Planning reforms can streamline the approval process for new developments and conversions, leading to increased housing supply and more efficient use of existing spaces.

  • Annual Rental Yields Rise Amid Quarterly Dip in Regions

    Annual Rental Yields Rise Amid Quarterly Dip in Regions

    Recent data reveals that annual rental yields across England and Wales have increased, although the majority of regions experienced a quarterly decline. Fleet Mortgages’ latest Buy-to-Let Rental Barometer indicates that while the national average yield rose to 7.8% annually, six out of ten regions saw a dip in yields when comparing the second quarter of 2026 to the first quarter.

    TL;DR: Annual rental yields in England and Wales have increased to 7.8%; however, six out of ten regions reported a quarterly decline, affecting landlords and investors.

    What Are the Current National Rental Yield Trends?

    The Buy-to-Let Rental Barometer shows that the average rental yield for England and Wales has risen by 0.3% year-on-year, reaching 7.8%. However, there was a slight decline from the previous quarter, which recorded an average yield of 8.1%. This indicates a mixed picture for the rental market, as landlords may need to adjust their expectations based on regional performance.

    Which Regions Are Leading in Rental Yields?

    The North East continues to lead with an annual rental yield of 9.2%, despite a quarterly drop of 0.6%. The North West follows closely with an average yield of 8.8%. Other regions maintaining yields above 8% include Yorkshire and Humberside, Wales, and both the East and West Midlands. This regional disparity highlights the importance of local market conditions for landlords and investors.

    What Does This Mean for Landlords and Investors?

    For landlords, the increase in annual rental yields may suggest a more profitable rental market, but the quarterly dips in many regions indicate potential volatility. The data also shows a shift in the landlord demographic, with professional landlords holding an average of 16 properties, up from 10 last year. Additionally, limited company applications accounted for 78% of borrowing, reflecting a trend towards corporate investment in buy-to-let properties. Landlords should remain vigilant and consider diversifying their portfolios or adjusting their strategies in response to these trends.

    What Should Borrowers and Brokers Watch Next?

    As the market evolves, borrowers and brokers should keep an eye on the Bank of England’s monetary policy decisions and inflation trends, as these factors will influence mortgage rates and rental yields. Fleet Mortgages has reported a rise in average product rates for two- and five-year fixed-rate mortgages, which could impact affordability for new and existing landlords. The increase in purchase activity from 33% in Q1 to 36% in Q2 suggests a growing confidence among landlords, but ongoing economic conditions will be critical in shaping future market dynamics.

    Frequently asked questions

    What factors influence rental yields?

    Rental yields are influenced by various factors, including local demand for rental properties, property prices, and economic conditions. Changes in interest rates and government policies can also impact yields.

    How can landlords improve their rental yields?

    Landlords can improve their rental yields by investing in property maintenance, enhancing property appeal, and ensuring competitive rental pricing. Additionally, understanding local market trends can help landlords make informed decisions.

  • Planning Reform and Landlord Support: Bridging Finance Impact

    Planning Reform and Landlord Support: Bridging Finance Impact

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is urging the next Prime Minister to implement significant planning reforms and provide support for landlords. This call comes as the industry faces challenges related to planning delays and tax policies that hinder investment in commercial and mixed-use properties, impacting housing supply and regeneration efforts.

    TL;DR: The specialist finance sector is pressing for planning reforms and landlord support; these changes could enhance housing supply and ease investment restrictions.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed?

    According to industry experts, the next government should prioritise a comprehensive overhaul of the planning system. This includes introducing statutory deadlines for planning applications, enhancing local authority resources, and establishing a presumption in favour of converting vacant commercial spaces into residential units. Such measures would expedite the approval process for change-of-use applications, facilitating quicker transformations of unused retail and office spaces into mixed-use developments.

    How Will This Affect Landlords?

    The private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in addressing housing demand, particularly as the country grapples with a shortage of social housing. Industry leaders argue that the government must support landlords, who have often been viewed primarily as a source of tax revenue. Calls for reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, eliminating the stamp duty surcharge, and reintroducing the Wear and Tear Allowance have been made to alleviate the financial burden on landlords.

    What Changes Are Suggested for Business Rates?

    Reforming business rates is another area of focus. Lowering costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses could significantly benefit high streets and those occupying semi-commercial properties. The current business rates system is seen as a deterrent to investment in mixed-use developments, and reforming it could stimulate local economies and support the rejuvenation of high streets.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance

    Bridging finance could see increased demand as planning reforms create opportunities for faster project approvals. With the current planning system moving slowly, bridging lenders are positioned to provide quick funding solutions for developers looking to take advantage of new opportunities. If the proposed reforms are enacted, the bridging finance sector may experience heightened activity as investors seek to capitalise on the improved conditions for development.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is bridging finance?

    Bridging finance is a short-term loan designed to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one. It is often used in property transactions to secure funding quickly.

    How can landlords benefit from proposed reforms?

    Proposed reforms could ease financial pressures on landlords by reinstating tax reliefs and reducing regulatory burdens, allowing them to invest more in their properties and meet housing demand effectively.