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FIBA
Complex buy-to-let
Unpacking myths
Chris Thompson Head of Sales Market Harborough Building Society
In my conversations with brokers, complex buy to let comes up with increasing frequency, and often with a degree of frustration. Not because the cases themselves are unworkable, but because outdated assumptions still creep into discussions around affordability and suitability.
Experienced brokers know this market is rarely black and white. Yet even now, certain myths persist that can limit options or slow down progress. It’ s worth challenging a few of the most common ones.
Myth one: complex buy to let cases are harder to place
The first assumption is that anything outside a straightforward single let automatically becomes harder to place.
Multi lets, regulated lets, or properties with unconventional usage often appear“ non standard” only when viewed through rigid criteria. Many landlords operating in these areas are highly experienced, with well understood income streams and clear long term strategies. In practice, a fully let multi unit property with diversified tenant income can offer a stable and predictable model.
The issue is rarely the case itself, but whether underwriting frameworks and lending policy is flexible enough to reflect that reality. Where approaches allow brokers to present the full financial picture, for example through the absence of minimum ICR requirements or the ability to consider top slicing, affordability can be assessed more accurately. This leads to clearer outcomes and smoother progression for brokers and borrowers alike.