UK buy to let still strong

Property investors in the UK are still buying and able to get mortgages despite the lending institutions offering fewer products.

An examination of the latest figures shows that those willing to do their research can find good deals and in some cases banks are going out of their way to provide finance in difficult times.

Research from Paragon Mortgages, for example, shows that landlords are continuing to seek the best deals for their property investments. The study found that 45 per cent of buy-to-let mortgages taken out during the first three months of 2008 were arranged for the purpose of remortgaging.

In addition, 34 per cent of this type of home loans were directed at property investors who were adding to their portfolios. And 16 per cent of buy-to-let mortgages were taken out by new investors during this period.

Nigel Terrington, chief executive of the Paragon Group said it indicates the long-term attitude that many landlords have towards their investments. 'They are investors that base their purchase decisions on proven tenant demand for long-term returns rather than speculative investment for a quick profit,' he said.

And the April lending figures from the British Bankers' Association shows gross lending increased by seven per cent to £17.8 billion, up from £16.6 billion in March.

A closer examination shows this money was not going on new houses, so it is current homeowners and investors who are keeping the market going.

David Dooks, the BBA's statistics director, said there is an 'active remortgaging market' and that shows the mainstream mortgage market has not ground to a halt.

There is even encouragement for first time buyers. A firm of solicitors in Scotland and the Bank of Ireland have linked up to offer Britain's only 100% mortgage. There are conditions attached but it is a small indication that new products are becoming available.

This offer from The Edinburgh Solicitors Property Centre (ESPC) and Bank of Ireland is a guarantor scheme where a parent or a relative agrees to guarantee the mortgage in the event of failure to make the repayments. There is no mortgage arrangement fee or legal fee.

John Postlethwaite, principal at independent financial adviser Punter Southall Financial Management, in Edinburgh, welcomed the initiative. 'Anything encouraging people into the market is good to see,' he said.

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