First Time Buy to Let Mortgage

Whether you’re stepping into the world of property investment for the first time or expanding your portfolio, buying to let can be a smart way to build long-term wealth, if you do it right from the start.

At Jigsaw, we help our clients make clear, confident buy-to-let decisions. With over 30 years of landlord experience in-house, we understand what works, what to avoid, and how to structure your property investment to give you the best chance of success, financially and practically.

A buy-to-let mortgage is designed for individuals or limited companies purchasing a property to rent out, rather than live in. Unlike residential mortgages, affordability is based mainly on the property’s rental income potential, not your personal salary.

You can apply as:

An individual (private landlord) – taxed via your personal income
A limited company (SPV) – more tax-efficient for higher-rate taxpayers

We usually recommend using a limited company structure, particularly if you plan to build a portfolio or are already in a higher tax bracket, but we’ll explore what suits your goals and finances best.

Buy-to-let is a good fit for:

First time investors looking to generate income
Homeowners releasing equity to invest in a rental property
Self employed professionals or directors building future income streams
Parents buying a student accommodation for their children
Anyone planning for a retirement with a steady asset

To be eligible, you'll usually need:

A minimum 25% deposit (or equity if remortgaging)
Proof of income and affordability
A clean credit record
A property that meets rental yield criteria (we’ll help you calculate this)

Step 1

Initial consultation

We’ll talk through your goals, explain the risks and rewards, and confirm whether buy-to-let suits your situation.

Step 1

Step 2

Fact-find & planning

We assess affordability, tax position, and decide whether to buy as an individual or through a limited company.

Step 2

Step 3

Sourcing finance

We match you with a lender that supports your structure and rental goals, including those that accept one-year accounts or complex income.

Step 3

Step 4

Application & valuation

We submit your mortgage application and arrange a rental valuation. We also support you if any issues arise.

Step 4

Step 5

Offer, legal, and completion

Once your mortgage offer is issued, we coordinate with solicitors and ensure a smooth path to completion.

Step 5

Upfront costs:

Deposit (usually 25%)
Legal and mortgage fees
Stamp duty (including the additional 3% property surcharge)
Survey and valuation costs

Ongoing costs:

Mortgage repayments
Letting agent fees (if applicable)
Property maintenance and compliance
Landlord insurance and tax liabilities
Income tax or corporation tax, depending on the structure

Frequently asked questions

We use rental stress tests required by lenders; typically, your rent must cover 125%–145% of the mortgage payment, depending on your tax bracket.

Yes, though it’s more complex. We’ll help you navigate the additional checks.

A letting agent can handle everything from tenant vetting to repairs, but charges fees. We’ll help you assess what’s most cost-effective.

You must meet housing standards, fire safety, deposit protection and tenant rights. We’ll help ensure you're fully compliant.

How can we help you?

Know your budget

Get a quick estimate of your buying power based on your income and budget.

Get mortgage in principle

Secure a lender-backed agreement to strengthen your offer on a property.

See your monthly payments

See what your monthly payments could look like with our easy mortgage calculator.

Find out what you can afford in minutes

Get clarity before you start house hunting

Understanding what you can realistically afford is the first step towards a stress-free home-buying journey. Our affordability tool gives you a quick, realistic estimate of how much you may be able to borrow, based on your income, outgoings, and deposit.

A quick check, with no impact on your credit score

The tool is completely free to use, takes just a couple of minutes, and won’t affect your credit score — so you can explore your options with confidence and no pressure.

Plan with confidence, whatever your next step

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving home, or simply exploring what’s possible, this check helps you set a clear budget, focus on the right properties, and avoid unwelcome surprises later on.

Rate match guarantee

You won't find a better deal anywhere else and if you do we will pay the difference!

What is a buy-to-let mortgage?

Who is it for?