"Our research shows landlords are looking for clarity and expert advice, not just the cheapest deal, to help them make informed and confident decisions"
- Jonathan Stinton - Coventry for intermediaries
Landlords are three times more likely to feel ‘very confident’ when using a mortgage broker to set up a limited company buy-to-let (BTL) arrangement, according to new research from Coventry for intermediaries. The findings underline the key role brokers play in guiding landlords through a growing and often complex area of the market.
The data shows that 55% of landlords who plan to use a broker for their limited company BTL feel ‘very confident’ in the process, compared with just 20% of those who intend to go directly to a lender. The figures are part of Coventry’s latest report, The broker’s guide to limited company BTL mortgages, which explores how landlords view professional advice and support in the incorporation journey.
The report highlights the top three areas landlords most want help with when incorporating a BTL portfolio into a limited company:
Tax implications (32%)
Long-term benefits (31%)
Transferring properties into a company structure (30%)
When asked what they value most from their mortgage broker, 40% of landlords pointed to specialist expertise in buy-to-let mortgages. This ranked above securing the best deal or most competitive rate, selected by 37% of respondents.
One in three landlords (33%) also said they want brokers to understand their long-term financial goals and provide advice beyond product selection. The data suggests that brokers who adopt a consultative, relationship-based approach may be better positioned to win and retain clients as interest in limited company BTL continues to rise.
Brokers themselves are seeing growing demand. According to the report, 70% say more clients are now asking about limited company BTL. However, confidence among brokers varies. Those with less experience, handling between one and five cases a year, are less likely to feel prepared, with only one in seven describing themselves as fully confident in advising clients on incorporation.
The report suggests that clearly communicating what landlords can expect during the process, and the broker’s role within it, can help to reduce uncertainty and improve client satisfaction. With landlords placing increasing value on advice and clarity, the research presents a clear opportunity for intermediaries to reinforce their expertise and strengthen their advisory offering.
“As the market grows, so does the complexity for landlords,” said Jonathan Stinton, head of intermediary relationships at Coventry for intermediaries. “Incorporating a BTL portfolio can be complex and, at times, overwhelming, with landlords facing challenges around tax, legal structure, and transferring properties. Our research shows landlords are looking for clarity and expert advice, not just the cheapest deal, to help them make informed and confident decisions.
“Brokers play a vital role in simplifying this journey. By offering tailored guidance and demystifying the process of incorporation, they can reassure clients at every step. This is a real opportunity for brokers to position themselves as trusted partners, reduce client stress, and build long-term relationships in a growing market.”
