UK Mortgages

As an irish investor who wants to starting investing in the UK, what is the best way to secure finance for these transactions. Obviously you could go to a local bank manager (BOI, AIB etc) and get an equity release for one/two buy to lets. However, if you were interested in lets 5 or even 10 properties who are the best to approach for good buy to lets loans at reasonable interest rates. I know IIB will lend but their rates are 1 to 1.5% higher than UK rates. Any suggestions would be welcome!

I have found Bank of Scotland (in the UK) ok in the past, but other than that I am not up to speed right now on what is best. I am aware that many people use mortgage brokers, but you may have a probelm getting sufficiently high leverage if you go that route. I would start with the BOS branch in the town where you hope to do business -- make an appointment to meet the manager and take it from there.

Talk also with Capital Homeloans (Permanent TSB subisdiary). They are the main competitors to IIB for such loans. Also try Bank of Scotland in Dublin, who will certainly lend if you have sufficent net worth. Also try First Trust in Northern Ireland; Newry branch, I think, others have said are useful.

Check out these guys [broken link removed] they specialise in UK Mortages.

www.moneyfacts.co.uk is a good source of comparisons for UK financial products, including mortgages. The UK market is much more competitive than Ireland and they are basically cannabilising themselves over there so you can get some good deals. Don't go through Irish based websites because they will be linked to the banks who give them the best commission. Moneyfacts allows you a good comparison and you can source them direct.

For investing the UK we generally advise taking out an interest only mortgage secured on the property in the UK, but everybodys' situation is different and it would depend on your personal circumstances.

Simon

Thanks for all the replies. Very useful