If you’re considering buying or refinancing an investment property through a company structure, a limited company buy to let mortgage could be the right solution. Many landlords and property investors now choose to hold buy to let properties within a limited company for long-term planning and portfolio growth.
At Empire Mortgages, we provide expert, whole-of-market advice to help you understand how limited company buy to let mortgages work and whether this approach suits your investment goals.
A limited company buy to let mortgage is designed for properties purchased or held within a UK limited company, rather than in your personal name. In most cases, this involves a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) company set up specifically for property investment.
Unlike personal buy to let mortgages, limited company mortgages are assessed based on the company structure, rental income, and the directors involved. Lenders will usually require personal guarantees from company directors, even though the property is owned by the company.
This type of mortgage is commonly used by:
New and experienced landlords, portfolio investors, business owners investing through a company, landlords transferring properties into a company structure.
Empire Mortgages will explain the differences clearly and help you understand how lender criteria apply to your situation.
Many property investors choose a limited company structure for strategic and financial reasons. While tax advice should always come from a qualified accountant, common reasons investors explore this option include:
A limited company buy to let mortgage can be particularly attractive for landlords planning to grow a portfolio rather than holding a single property.
Lenders apply specific criteria when assessing limited company buy to let applications. Key considerations include:
Even first-time landlords can sometimes be accepted, depending on the lender and overall strength of the application. Empire Mortgages works with a wide range of specialist lenders, increasing your chances of finding a suitable option.
Borrowing limits for a limited company buy to let mortgage are usually based on a combination of loan-to-value (LTV) limits and rental affordability.
Typical considerations include:
The expected rental income must usually exceed the mortgage payment by a set percentage, ensuring the property is financially sustainable.
Empire Mortgages will calculate this for you and explain exactly how much you may be able to borrow before you proceed.
A limited company buy to let mortgage can be used for a range of property types, subject to lender approval:
If you already own buy to let properties personally, transferring them into a company may also be an option, although this requires careful consideration and professional advice.
At Empire Mortgages, we understand that limited company buy to let mortgages can feel complex. Our role is to simplify the process and ensure you fully understand your options.
When you work with us, you benefit from:
We tailor our advice to your goals — whether you’re buying your first investment property or expanding an existing portfolio.
The process is straightforward when guided by an experienced broker:
Initial Consultation – We review your plans, company structure, deposit, and target property.
Rental & Affordability Assessment – We assess expected rental income and confirm borrowing limits.
Whole-of-Market Search – We compare lenders to find suitable limited company buy to let mortgage options.
Application & Documentation – We prepare and submit your application and manage all lender requirements.
Valuation & Underwriting – The lender completes valuation checks and underwriting.
Mortgage Offer & Completion – Once approved, your purchase or remortgage completes smoothly.
Choosing between personal ownership and a limited company structure depends on your circumstances, long-term plans, and professional advice.
A personal buy to let mortgage may suit landlords with one or two properties, while a limited company buy to let mortgage can be more suitable for investors planning to grow and reinvest. Empire Mortgages works closely with clients and their accountants to ensure the structure aligns with their objectives.
Whether you’re purchasing your first investment property or expanding an existing portfolio, Empire Mortgages can help you decide if a limited company buy to let mortgage is right for you and guide you through the process from start to finish.
Yes. Many lenders offer buy to let mortgages specifically for limited companies and SPVs.
Rates can be slightly higher than personal buy to let, but this varies by lender and circumstances.
Most lenders require a minimum deposit of around 25%.
In some cases, yes. Acceptance depends on lender criteria and the strength of the application.
An SPV is a limited company set up solely for property investment, using approved SIC codes.
This may be possible, but it requires careful consideration and professional tax and legal advice.
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The guidance provided within this website is subject to the UK regulatory regime and is therefore primarily targeted at consumers based in the UK.
Empire Mortgages Ltd is an Appointed Representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of TenetLime Ltd. TenetLime Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Tenet Lime Ltd is entered on the Financial Services Register (www.fca.org.uk/register) under reference 150643.
Empire Mortgages Ltd may charge a fee for mortgage advice. The amount of the fee will depend on your circumstances and will be discussed and agreed with you at the earliest opportunity. Our typical fee is £295 payable on receipt of a full mortgage offer.
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