Company buy-to-let in Lewes
Lewes is an expensive town compared with much of East Sussex, and its rental homes are often period houses with high values relative to the rent. That puts the lender's rent test front and centre. A limited company structure, where many lenders use a lower rent test, can sometimes support a larger loan for the same rent, which is one reason higher-rate taxpayers often consider it.
Supply in Lewes is tight. The town sits inside the South Downs National Park, new development is limited, and the long-planned Phoenix scheme off North Street had not started by late 2025. Many investors therefore buy existing homes, sometimes needing refurbishment, and look to hold them for the long term.
Property checks are especially important here. Listed buildings, conservation-area restrictions, flood risk near the Ouse and older construction all affect which lenders will consider a property, whether you buy in your own name or through an SPV. Company landlords also face the same Renters' Rights Act rules as individuals since May 2026.
Personal name or limited company?
Many landlords now buy through a company because company profits are taxed differently from personal rental income, and mortgage interest can usually be treated as a cost. That does not suit everyone: drawing money out of the company is taxed, company products are a narrower market, and you still pay the 5% stamp duty surcharge on additional properties.
If you already own properties personally, moving them into a company usually counts as a sale. Take tax advice first, then let us find the right limited company buy-to-let lender for the structure you choose.
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How limited company buy-to-let lending works
Most lenders want a special purpose vehicle (SPV): a limited company set up only to hold property, usually with SIC codes such as 68100, 68209 or 68320. Some lenders also accept trading companies or more complex group structures. Directors and main shareholders are usually asked to give personal guarantees.
The rent test for company borrowers is often around 125%, which can allow a larger loan than the higher-rate personal test. Most lenders want a 25% deposit. Newly formed companies are fine with many lenders, because they look at the directors' experience and credit. Our guide to SPV, HMO and company buy-to-let lending goes into more detail.
Example: refurbishing a period house
This is an illustrative example, not a real case. An SPV buys a Victorian terraced house in Lewes that has no working kitchen and needs rewiring, so a buy-to-let lender will not lend on it yet. The company uses bridging finance for the purchase and works, then refinances onto a company buy-to-let mortgage once the house is let, based on the new value and rent. Our Lewes guide has more on local property.
Limited company buy-to-let advice in Lewes
We work with company landlords from their first SPV purchase to large multi-property portfolios. We are directly authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 925926) and rated 5.0 stars from 109 Google reviews. We are based in Hastings and most Lewes clients work with us by phone or video, with documents uploaded securely; you are also welcome at our Hastings office.
Our broker fee is £599. For a purchase it is payable when your mortgage offer is issued; for a remortgage to a new lender it is charged on completion. Where there is adverse credit the fee is £999, or up to 1% of the loan. We do not charge a fee for product transfers with your existing lender, and we confirm any fee in writing before we start. Contact us or call 01424 444597 to talk it through.
Frequently asked questions
Can my company buy a listed house in Lewes?
Yes, from lenders that accept listed buildings. Expect a more detailed valuation and allow for restrictions on alterations.
Is it worth using a company for one Lewes property?
It depends on your tax position and plans. For a single property, personal ownership may be simpler. Your accountant can compare the two, and we can show you how much each route lets you borrow.
Can I move properties I already own into my company?
You can, but it is normally treated as a sale, so capital gains tax and stamp duty may apply, and it needs a new mortgage in the company's name. Get tax advice first; we can then arrange the company mortgage.
Can a brand-new company get a mortgage?
Yes. Many lenders are happy to lend to a newly formed SPV with no accounts, because they assess the directors' income, credit and experience instead.
Do I need to set up a new company?
Not always, but most lenders prefer a special purpose vehicle that only holds property. If you already have a trading company, a smaller group of lenders may still help. Speak to your accountant before setting one up so the shareholdings suit your plans.
Important: Limited company buy-to-let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Directors are usually asked for personal guarantees, which can put personal assets at risk. The FCA does not regulate tax advice, so please take advice from an accountant before buying through a company.
Transparent Mortgage Services is a trading style of Transparent Financial Associates Limited, which is directly authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 925926). 17 Havelock Road, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 1BP. Telephone 01424 444597.
