How do lenders know if a potential client can keep up with their repayments? Enter buy-to-let stress tests - Sofia Jones, managing director of Penny House has the lowdown
In recent years, mortgage lenders have introduced buy-to-let stress tests as a way to assess the ability of a landlord to keep up with mortgage payments in the event of an adverse change in the rental market, such as a drop in rent or an increase in interest rates.
The purpose of these stress tests is to ensure that landlords have enough financial resilience to withstand such changes, and that they won’t default on their mortgage.
The stress tests typically involve the lender assessing the landlord’s rental income in relation to the mortgage payment, and taking into account various assumptions about changes in rent and interest rates.
There have been a number of changes to buy-to-let stress tests in recent years, in response to changes in the rental market and the economy more broadly. Some of the changes include:
Tougher rental coverage ratios: Lenders have increased the rental coverage ratios that landlords need to meet in order to be approved for a mortgage. This means that landlords need to show that their rental income is sufficient to cover a larger proportion of their mortgage payments.
Interest rate assumptions have been raised: Lenders have increased the interest rate assumptions used in their stress tests, which has made it more difficult for landlords to meet the requirements.
Higher minimum deposit requirements: Lenders have also raised the minimum deposit requirements for buy-to-let mortgages, which makes it more challenging for landlords to secure finance.
The solution to these changes is to make sure that you have a strong rental income, and to demonstrate to the lender that you are able to meet the tougher stress test requirements.
This may involve increasing your rental income, reducing your expenses, or saving a larger deposit.
It’s also important to do your research and compare different mortgage products to find the best option for your needs.
A financial adviser or mortgage broker can help you navigate the process and find the best solution for you.
Sofia Jones is managing director of Penny House
