Buy-to-let Watch Episode 6 | Importance of Investor Strategy

Buy-to-let Watch Episode 6
Liz Syms
Liz Syms, CEO and Founder of Connect

We thoroughly enjoyed our last feature, “Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 5 | Survival of The Biggest”, and now, desiring to offer our readers a varied subject, we aim to delve into  Buy-to-let Watch Episode 6 | Why Investor Strategy is Important in today’s discussion.

Liz Syms: “Recently, I participated in several industry events. There’s a noticeable eagerness among mortgage professionals to reengage in networking activities.

This eagerness extends to buy-to-let (BTL) investors, as seen at a recent property investor show. The two-day event, which was aimed at consumers, was bustling with activity.

It was my first face-to-face interaction with BTL investors since the pandemic began. I was curious about the attendees, their profiles, and the variety of investors present.

To my surprise, the event was well attended by enthusiastic individuals. Thousands of property investors were eager to expand their BTL property and finance knowledge.

The energy and turnout underscored a collective thirst for information within the BTL investment community. This added an optimistic note to the resurgence of networking activities in the mortgage industry.

This experience emphasised the market’s resilience and ongoing vitality despite the lingering challenges posed by the pandemic.

Buy-to-let Watch Episode 6 | Insights from portfolio landlords to aspiring property enthusiasts

The event featured a variety of investors, from experienced portfolio holders to developers seeking funding for projects. For example, one attendee owned over 100 properties, while others were focused on refurbishment opportunities. These diverse profiles illustrated the broad range of participants in today’s property market.

Interestingly, many attendees were smaller investors with one to three properties. Despite their limited portfolios, they shared a common ambition: expanding their investments and improving their property strategies. Transitioning from novice to experienced investor requires careful planning and understanding of financial options.

Engaging with these investors reminded me of my advisory career. During those years, I helped clients grow their portfolios and navigate the complexities of property finance. Assisting investors in building their strategies often creates long-term professional relationships. Moreover, it reinforced the importance of personalised advice.

Understanding client goals is essential for successful investment. Do they aim for immediate cash flow, retirement income, or capital appreciation? Analysing their tax situation and future changes is equally important. Advisors must also explore how many properties clients plan to acquire and within what timeframe. These details form the basis for tailored financial solutions.

Development and refurbishment remain popular methods for adding value to portfolios. Investors often use this added value as deposits for future property acquisitions, ensuring steady portfolio growth and creating new opportunities.

However, overlooking key financing considerations can lead to issues. For instance, locking clients into fixed-rate deals with early repayment charges can limit flexibility. This is particularly true with specialised Buy-to-Let lenders, which may restrict additional borrowing or second charges. Such oversights can result in client dissatisfaction and hinder portfolio growth.

Fostering trust through sound financial advice ensures investors can achieve their goals while avoiding common pitfalls in the UK mortgage market.

Buy-to-let Watch Episode 6 | Educate your portfolio landlords on green mortgages and EPC requirements

Initiating discussions with investor clients about green mortgages and EPC requirements is crucial. From 2025, new tenancies must have ratings of A to C. By 2028, this regulation will apply to all tenancies.

When securing a five-year fixed rate today, clients may need to improve properties to meet EPC standards. However, funding these upgrades might pose financial challenges and complicate their financial situation.

It’s optimistic that more lenders will innovate within the Buy-to-Let (BTL) market to meet EPC requirements. A few BTL lenders are pioneering various product incentives, including rate reductions and cashback. This signals a shift towards a more environmentally conscious lending landscape. Staying attuned to emerging offerings is essential. This ensures clients make informed decisions aligning with financial and environmental goals.

Currently, only a few BTL lenders offer product incentives, ranging from rate reductions to cashback.

Lender Rating Rate Rate type LTV Incentives
BOI A-C 1.76% 2-year fix 60% Lower rates
BOI A-C 2.12% 5-year fix 75% Lower rates
Foundation A 3.14% 5-year fix 75% Lower rates and £750 cash back

Less attractive options for B&C ratings

Foundation A 1.99% 2-yr variable -no ERC 75% Lower rates
Kensington 4.34% 2-year fixed 80% £1000 cashback if rating improved in 12-months from completion
Landbay A-B 2.89% 5-year fixed 70% Lower rates

Slightly higher for C rating

LendInvest A-C 2.88% 5-yr fixed 65% Lower rates and fees
TMW A-C 2.24% 2-yr fixed 80% 80% only available for A-C ratings
Paragon A-C 3.99% 5-yr fixed 80% Lower rates

Buy-to-let Watch Episode 6 *Details correct as at 25/10/21

Buy-to-let Watch Episode 6 | Opportunities for property investors

Lenders offering environmentally friendly mortgages provide cost savings compared to traditional products. For instance, Paragon includes a green mortgage option for every standard product, offering a 0.1% discount.

Financial advisers should promote these eco-friendly products to Buy-to-Let (BTL) clients. This helps them navigate upcoming regulatory changes with ease. By adopting this approach, advisers can enhance their value to property investors while addressing sustainability goals.

Building strong client relationships is essential for financial advisers. Understanding each investor’s needs and long-term goals fosters trust and positions the adviser as a reliable partner. This collaborative approach benefits both parties in achieving success.

Helping clients expand their property portfolios offers a significant advantage. Frequent mortgage transactions, potentially every few months, ensure consistent business rather than sporadic activity every few years.

Seizing the opportunities presented by green mortgages boosts financial performance and builds lasting client relationships, which is vital in the UK’s constantly evolving property investment market.

We have reached the end of Buy-to-Let Watch Episode 6 | Why Investor Strategy is Important. Until next time, stay “Connect!

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