Commercial Trust sees an influx of older buy-to-let investors

In 2018 the proportion of buy-to-let applications to that demographic through the broker rose by 5.43% compared to 2017.

Commercial Trust sees an influx of older buy-to-let investors

Broker Commercial Trust has noticed an increase in the number of buy-to-let investors between 65 and 75 taking out a mortgage.

In 2018 the proportion of buy-to-let applications to that demographic through the broker rose by 5.43% compared to 2017.

Andrew Turner (pictured), chief executive at Commercial Trust, said: “Our look at the age demographics for 2018 buy to let mortgage activity, suggests that increasing numbers of older people are recognising the potential of buy to let investments.

“Our data indicates that many people, reaching retirement, are choosing to invest in bricks and mortar and the rental market, as a means to fund their retirement years.

“Investing in property has the potential to deliver attractive rental yields and achieve capital growth, despite industry changes. I fully expect that the returns fair better than many other forms of investment.”

Secure Trust said the trend for more older buy-to-let mortgage applicants has been recognised by a number of lenders, who in recent times have increased the maximum age at which an applicant can apply for a buy-to-let mortgage, or the maximum age permitted at the end of the mortgage term.

Santander increased its maximum age at the end of the mortgage term criteria from 75 to 85 years old, and the maximum mortgage term on its buy-to-let range from 25 years to 40 years.

Some lenders offer buy to let mortgages with no maximum age at application, while a number of the more established lenders have a maximum starting age of 80 years old.

Precise Mortgages is happy for those borrowers meeting criteria to finish the mortgage at 110 years old, while The Mortgage Works sets no maximum age at term end, for experienced landlords.