Buy-to-let product choice is starting to recover with landlords now having increased options, but still less than they had before the mini-Budget, according to the latest analysis by Moneyfacts.co.uk.
Overall buy-to-let product availability (fixed and variable) has risen by over 700 options since the start of October 2022 (988).
There are however, around 300 less deals than at the start of September 2022 (2,075).
Average fixed rates rose over the same period, both over a 2-year or 5-year fixed term.
Rachel Springall, finance expert at Moneyfacts.co.uk, said: “The buy-to-let sector has faced notable market turmoil, so it’s positive to see product choice gradually returning since the start of last month. A rise in choice could indicate an encouraging sentiment across lenders that appear to be adjusting their ranges to cater to landlords searching for a new deal.
“The cost for locking into a new fixed deal has risen since the start of October, and the overall average buy-to-let fixed rates across both 2- and 5-year terms sit above 6%.
“So, despite product choice starting to return, landlords will be paying higher interest rates than if they secured a deal just eight weeks ago. There are high expectations that interest rates will come down in the weeks ahead, so it would not be too surprising if landlords wait a little longer before they refinance, particularly as we approach the end of the year.
“Prospective landlords assessing the potential returns by investing in buy-to-let may be concerned about their profit margins due to rising interest rates and the cost of living. Any investor will need to carefully balance their rental expectations amid rising costs as it is difficult to tell how investors could be impacted moving into 2023.
“However, since January 2020, rents have risen 19% across Great Britain, equating to an extra £2,351 a year for tenants, according to a study by Hamptons. It’s essential any potential borrower seeks independent financial advice before entering any arrangement to ensure it’s the right choice for them.”
