A recent survey from Butterfield Mortgages Limited (BML) found that UK buy-to-let (BTL) landlords place the highest importance on brokers’ knowledge of tax and regulations.
The survey, conducted with 501 landlords with BTL mortgages, highlighted specific qualities that landlords value in brokers.
38% of respondents noted tax and regulatory expertise as their top priority.
This was closely followed by the need for access to a diverse range of flexible financial solutions (36%) and access to exclusive products not available directly to borrowers (34%).
Other qualities included experience with clients of similar demographics (29%), a broad range of lender partnerships (28%), and expertise in the local property market (26%).
Alpa Bhakta, CEO of Butterfield Mortgages Limited, said: “This research comes at a pivotal time, with Rachel Reeves’s Budget still fresh in people’s minds.
“Indeed, it is noteworthy that expertise in tax and regulation ranked higher than product range, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty among landlords about the potential impact of Government policies on the BTL market.
“Evidently, brokers and lenders must focus on providing access to up-to-date, expert guidance to help landlords navigate these challenges effectively.
Bhakta added: “Our research also reveals that, despite recent rate cuts, borrowers still rely on brokers to offer a diverse range of financial options that enable them to adapt confidently to the evolving BTL market.
“What’s more, landlords expect brokers to deliver a personal, tailored service that caters to their specific needs. The survey underscores the value landlords place on quality, human-centred service.
“Lenders must also consider these findings carefully – and they need to recognise their role in supporting both brokers and their clients as well.
“It’s crucial for the entire sector to collaborate, ensuring that BTL landlords can make better-informed, confident decisions that foster long-term success.”
