5 steps to becoming a buy-to-let landlord

If you already have a mortgage on your property but wish to convert it to buy-to-let, it's important to speak to your mortgage lender. You're not allowed to move tenants into your property without your lender granting what is known as "consent to let".

There will be a fee charged for getting consent. It could be the case that you can remain on the same mortgage rate that you are currently on, but it's more likely that you will have to go onto a specific buy-to-let mortgage rate.

If this is the case, it's worth seeing what your existing lender can offer and compare this to other mortgages for first-time landlords (you might find that speaking to a mortgage broker will also be of help).

If you're not confident managing your property and tenants directly, a letting agent can be a great help. Be sure to get quotes from several agents for managing your property, but when it comes down to it, it's the agent you feel most comfortable with, not price that's most important.

A letting agent has that specialist knowledge that can help you get your property ready to rent. This includes looking at important details such as making sure your Gas Safe inspections are up-to-date and ensuring any electrical appliances you leave for the use of tenants are PAT tested.

It's always better to go for a letting agent that's a member of the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA): see www.arla.co.uk. ARLA members must adhere to certain professional standards, as well as following a strict code of practice.

Our buy to let rental yield calculator shows how much your rental yield might be based on your property's value and expected rent.

When you become a landlord you need to have specialist landlord insurance on the property, not the buildings insurance you'd normally have.

Buy-to-let is an investment, and you will have to pay taxes regarding the property. Talk to an accountant or tax professional about what you might have to pay. If you’re unsure, your letting agent may be able to put you in touch with a specialist in this field.

Bricks and mortar are normally considered a safe bet, but it’s important to remember that a buy-to-let property is an investment. This means that you could lose money as well as make it. To start off, read our guide to buy-to-let investment risks. If you're still unsure, speak to a financial adviser.

Mortgage brokers remove a lot of the paperwork and hassle of getting a mortgage, as well as helping you access exclusive products and rates that aren’t available to the public. Mortgage brokers are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and are required to pass specific qualifications before they can give you advice.

Speak to a mortgage broker today