A mortgage is a loan secured against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it.
Loan to Value (LTV) Ratio is an important variable that dictates the monthly repayment amount for a Buy to Let mortgage.
Understanding the loan-to-value ratio is crucial for both homebuyers and remortgagers. This ratio determines your borrowing power and the total cost of your mortgage. A low loan-to-value ratio is considered good, while a high ratio is not desirable. Therefore, it is important to keep this ratio in mind while making any financial decisions related to your mortgage.
This article will explain to you the loan to value (LTV), why it is important when it comes to buy to let, and what to consider.
What is Loan to Value?
Most importantly, Loan to Value (LTV) is the percentage of your mortgage in relation to the value of the property you want to purchase.
Strategically reducing your LTV ratio is pivotal for enhancing profitability and securing favourable loan terms. A higher LTV ratio implies elevated risk for the lender, potentially resulting in increased interest rates and fees for the investor.
To diminish your LTV ratio effectively, the primary approach involves augmenting the down payment. This can be achieved through personal savings or securing financing from reputable sources. Additionally, strategic investments in property enhancements can elevate the property’s value, translating to improved loan terms and a diminished LTV ratio.
Lenders perceive higher LTV ratios as elevated risk, often translating into higher mortgage rates for investors. Conversely, investors with a lower LTV ratio can engage in negotiations for reduced mortgage rates, translating into substantial savings. A lower LTV ratio not only facilitates lower interest payments over the mortgage’s lifespan but also significantly influences overall investment returns.
Employing creative and strategic approaches in managing the LTV ratio is paramount for achieving desired outcomes with finesse in the dynamic landscape of property investment.
What is Loan to Value and how do I calculate it for Buy-to-Let Mortgages?
Determining your Loan to Value (LTV) ratio involves a straightforward calculation: divide your mortgage amount by the property’s value and multiply the result by 100.
For instance, envision a property acquisition of £1,200,000 with a corresponding mortgage of £960,000. In this scenario, the LTV ratio stands at 80% (£960,000 / £1,200,000 = 0.8; 0.8 x 100 = 80). This signifies a substantial 20% deposit (£240,000), representing the unfinanced equity in the property. This LTV calculation is a pivotal metric for assessing your property investment’s financial landscape and guiding strategic decisions.
Mortgages and Loan to Value for Buy-to-Let Properties
The Loan to Value (LTV) holds immense significance in the home buying process, serving as a pivotal factor for mortgage approval by lenders. A higher LTV poses an increased risk for the lender, particularly crucial when considering property acquisition for future rental purposes.
In the realm of buy-to-let mortgages, the Loan Value assumes paramount importance, influencing the calculation of monthly payments essential for meeting mortgage obligations. Buy-to-let mortgage providers analyse anticipated rental income, typically requiring annual rental earnings to amount to 125% of annual mortgage interest payments.
Illustratively, if your annual mortgage interest stands at £35,000, a corresponding rental income of at least £43,750 becomes imperative. The stringent conditions set by lenders in this mortgage category stem from inherent risks, such as potential tenant payment delays or gaps between transitioning tenants, necessitating meticulous consideration in the approval process.
What is Loan to Value and why does it matter?
Several critical scenarios underscore the significance of loan-to-value (LTV) for both lenders and borrowers. A higher LTV increases the perceived risk for lenders, potentially impeding mortgage approval. From the lender’s perspective, individuals with lower home equity are deemed more susceptible to financial challenges. Furthermore, if borrowers face difficulties in meeting repayments and their property undergoes repossession, selling it at auction, typically below market value, may result in a loss for the lender.
Another concern involves the inherent unpredictability of housing markets. Sudden drops in property values could lead to a situation where the property’s worth falls below the mortgage amount, putting borrowers in a state of “underwater” or “negative equity.” This scenario is unfavourable for borrowers and lenders alike, with the latter possibly incurring losses on their investment. This underscores the critical role of maintaining a balanced LTV to mitigate risks and ensure a stable financial footing for both parties involved.
What are the implications of this when applying for a Buy to Let mortgage?
The smaller your deposit, the fewer mortgage rates and lenders you will have to choose from. Whereas, if you have a bigger deposit, more lenders and rates will be available to you. To make sure you get the best deal possible, it is advised that Those with an LTV of 60% (a 40% deposit) are most likely to secure the best mortgage rate.
How can you avoid a high Loan to Value?
If you want to reduce your LTV, saving up for a larger deposit is the best way to go about it. It may mean delaying your homeownership goals or getting the mortgage product you really want, but in the end, it’ll put you in a stronger financial position with more options and better rates. Another option- though less ideal- is looking at lower-priced properties. This will also help lower the size of your mortgage.
How can we help you?
At Your Mortgage Experts, our team is dedicated and experienced. We have a great understanding of Buy to Let mortgage products and terrific relationships with likely lenders. If you take advantage of our free, friendly advice and obtain a no-obligation quote, you could be one step closer to securing a great mortgage rate. Contact one of our advisors now for more information about Loan to Value for Buy to Let mortgages.
Luca Bertolino
Mortgage ExpertYour Mortgage Experts is led by Luca Bertolino with 20 years experience in financial services and in the property market. Through Luca’s wealth of knowledge and expertise, Your Mortgage Experts have become a trusted adviser that clients have come to rely upon for all their mortgage and protection needs.
