Buy-to-let mortgages are a core tool for property investors building or refinancing portfolios. They differ from standard residential mortgages as lenders assess both the property’s rental income and the investor’s broader financial position. Buy-to-let finance can be structured for single properties, HMOs, multi-unit blocks, or entire portfolios.
At EAS Finance we know that not every landlord’s situation is the same. Some want the lowest monthly cost, some need the maximum borrowing possible, and others value flexibility above all. The type of product you choose – fixed, tracker, or a mix – makes a real difference to both what you can borrow and what it will cost you over time.
Standard single-property buy-to-let mortgages
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
Multi-unit freehold blocks (MUFBs)
Portfolio landlord mortgages
Remortgaging for better rates or capital raising
Holiday let mortgages (specialist lenders)
Holiday Lets
Loan-to-value up to 75% (sometimes higher with specialist lenders)
Interest-only or capital repayment options
2, 3, and 5-year fixed rates plus variable options
Stress-tested on rental income (ICR requirements vary by tax status)
Options for individuals, limited companies (SPVs), and LLPs
With nearly 2,000 buy-to-let mortgages available from banks, building societies, and specialist lenders, EAS Finance opens doors that most landlords would struggle to find alone.
Whether it’s a straightforward single let or a distressed asset you plan to convert into something more complex, we simplify the process, cut through the noise, and guide you to the right lender.
By packaging your case properly, we reduce delays and remove uncertainty — helping you secure the property you want without the stress that too often derails good investments.
The rate moves in line with the Bank of England base rate, plus a margin (e.g. Base + 2%)
Payments can go up or down depending on rate changes
Trackers are usually tested at a high stress rate (around 7%), which reduces borrowing capacity
They often come with lower early repayment charges, making it easier to refinance or sell more easily . Best for: landlords who don’t need the biggest loan but want flexibility and potentially lower costs
When your initial deal ends, your mortgage usually moves onto the lender’s SVR
These rates are typically much higher than fixed or tracker products (often 7%+)
It’s rarely wise to remain on an SVR – refinancing before you reach it is key
Lenders don’t simply test affordability against the actual mortgage payment. They apply a stress rate to make sure the loan is affordable even if interest rates rise. The required level of rental cover depends on who is borrowing and their tax position.
Basic rate taxpayers (20%) – rent must cover at least 125% of stressed interest
Higher rate taxpayers (40–45%) – rent must cover at least 145% of stressed interest
Property value: £400,000
Monthly rent: £1,500
ICR (Interest Coverage Ratio) requirement: 145%
Stress rate: 5.5%
LTV cap: 75%
Step 1 – Rent ÷ ICR requirement £1,500 ÷ 1.45 = £1,034 (monthly interest allowed)
Step 2 – Translate into maximum loan at 5.5% stress £1,034 ÷ (0.055 ÷ 12) = £226,000
Step 3 – Apply the LTV cap 0.75 × £400,000 = £300,000
Result:
Maximum loan = £226,000 (lower of Step 2 and Step 3)
SPVs are treated as corporate borrowers, not taxed at personal income tax rates.
Lenders usually apply a lower requirement of 125% ICR.
Property value: £400,000
Monthly rent: £1,500
ICR requirement: 125%
Stress rate: 5.5%
LTV cap: 75%
Step 1 – Rent ÷ ICR requirement £1,500 ÷ 1.25 = £1,200 (monthly interest allowed)
Step 2 – Translate into maximum loan at 5.5% stress £1,200 ÷ (0.055 ÷ 12) = £262,000
Step 3 – Apply the LTV cap 0.75 × £400,000 = £300,000
Result:
Maximum loan = £262,000
Under rules set by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), lenders may stress test a five-year fixed mortgage at the actual pay rate instead of 5.5% or 7%. This usually increases the maximum loan.
Property value: £400,000
Monthly rent: £1,500
ICR requirement: 145% (individual)
Stress rate: 4.9% (pay rate)
LTV cap: 75%
Step 1 – Rent ÷ ICR requirement £1,500 ÷ 1.45 = £1,034 (monthly interest allowed)
Step 2 – Translate into maximum loan at 4.9% stress £1,034 ÷ (0.049 ÷ 12) = £253,000
Step 3 – Apply the LTV cap 0.75 × £400,000 = £300,000
Result:
Maximum loan = £253,000
Direct accountability: you will only ever deal with me
Whole-of-market reach: broad access to specialist and mainstream buy-to-let lenders
Structuring expertise: ensuring the right product for your tax status and strategy
Clear process: lender-ready submissions to reduce delays
Transparent communication: straight answers and realistic expectations
Understand – Discuss your investment goals and tax position
Prepare – Build a lender-ready submission with rental income analysis
Place – Source terms from suitable buy-to-let lenders
Negotiate – Secure terms that align with your strategy
Complete – Support throughout valuation and legal process
Review – Monitor portfolio and revisit finance as opportunities arise
The figures and calculations shown are for illustration purposes only. They use fictitious rates and assumptions to demonstrate how buy-to-let mortgage stress testing works. They are not advice and should not be relied upon when making financial decisions. Actual borrowing capacity will depend on your personal circumstances, lender criteria, market conditions, and tax status, all of which can change.
If you are investing in buy-to-let property or looking to refinance an existing portfolio, contact EAS Finance today. We can provide indicative terms quickly, help you navigate lender requirements, and support you from enquiry to completion.