Expats landlords – What is in store for 2026

The new year is here, prompting us to plan for what’s ahead.

For the expat buy-to-let market there have been some significant ups and downs, particularly for expat landlord borrowers who have had deals ending in the last few months, and indeed who are looking at what finance they can secure in the future, from both a purchase and re-mortgage perspective.

Getting specialist help will help ease these issues and help smooth the way forward.

Many positives for this year!

Expat investors, both new and established, may be reassured by the sustained high demand for quality rental properties in the UK. Mortgage rates appear to have stabilised, and property values are consistently appreciating.

So, all in all there is plenty of reasons to be optimistic your investment is sound and profitable.

Expat mortgages are completing faster.

The duration required to finalise expat mortgages has decreased considerably over the past twelve months.

Straightforward cases in the industry now finish in under 7 weeks, far faster than a year ago when completion times were much longer.

Use an independent broker for speed and efficiency.

The independent broker will take control of the mortgage process, therefore relieving you of the stress and paperwork. They will be able to deal with the mortgage company supplying the loan and answer any queries they may have, saving you time and money.

Help required?

If you are an expat looking for a new or re-mortgage, please do get in touch and one of our fully qualified independent advisers will be happy to assist.

Best Expat Buy-to-Let Mortgage. Expat buy-to-let market strengthens.

Times are hard for first time buyers at present which has strengthened the buy-to-let market even more.

Young couples and first-time buyers looking to join the property ladder could be in for a very long wait. Figures just released this week are showing that a combined salary of £62000 is required on average to enter the property market.

As a result of all this many couples are turning to the rental market for housing, and this is providing a boost in demand for landlords and buy-to-let investors.

This in turn is creating a shortage of suitable properties coming onto the market especially in the London and Southeast.

UK property growth in 2026

Experts believe UK property values will rise between 3% & 6% across the UK next year. This according to figures released by one of the major high street mortgage lenders.

If these figures are achieved it will reverse the current decline of this year, the report also states increases in values could be stifled by the possibility of further cost of living increases.

As an expat with property in the UK if you compare this annual growth to what could be achieve from an investment in any high street bank, property looks a very good bet indeed.

Interestingly the report states they expect growth to slow slightly more in the London area than elsewhere. It is likely properties in the North of the country will see the largest growth due to their current affordability.

Top tip for speed and choice!

Using an independent broker could be a very shrewd move as they will access to the open market. They will also have the experience to advise you on the correct mortgage to meet your needs.

Mortgage assistance?

If you are contemplating entering this market or require assistance with a re-mortgage, please do contact us. We have experienced independent advisers who will find the correct deal for you.

Are Expat Mortgages Brokers Needed ? The wise expat will use an independent broker for speed and efficiency!

Independent mortgage advisers offer borrowers a wider range of options. Including specialist products for self-employed individuals and lifetime mortgages, compared to going directly to lenders.

Expat borrowers who used a mortgage adviser were also overwhelmingly in favour of doing so again. 98% said that they found the support of a mortgage adviser ‘valuable’. And a further 95% said they would recommend using a mortgage adviser to family or friends.

Expat buy-to-let investors have increased significantly in 2025.

This is still a growth area for investors as more expats see the buy-to-let market as a sound option for the future especially with property prices reducing nationwide.

Traditional forms of investment such as banks and building societies are still producing poor returns so investors are looking elsewhere.

The demand for good rental property has increased over the last 12 months due to the cost-of-living crisis and many other factors.

Expats would be wise to research the area of purchase thoroughly. To make sure the long-term future has prospects in the areas listed below.

Ways to be a successful Expat investor.

1. Select the type of tenant you are targeting this could be a young couple or single person in a professional career.
2. When choosing a buy-to-let property, ensure it’s in a location that suits your target tenants—proximity to schools, shops, and businesses are all key factors to consider.
3. Selecting the correct buy-to-let mortgage to fit your long-term planning. Do you want a fixed rate or a tracker or indeed any other product that is on offer? It is very important to seek professional advice when it comes to choosing your mortgage.

Help required?

If you would like to review your current expat mortgage, please do make contact. One of our expert independent advisers will be happy to guide you.

Brit Expat Mortgage Options. Expat buy-to-lets have grown significantly in the last 15 years.

Over the past 15 years, the expat buy-to-let market has continually expanded without any noticeable decline. Increasingly, both current and first-time expat landlords are purchasing properties to tap into this highly profitable sector.

• Over the last 18 years an investor on selling could see their investment double.
• If that money had been invested in gilts the returns would have been 220%.
• In 2024 over 4 million houses are recorded as rented.
• It is estimated lettings will rise to over 7 million in the next 10 years.
• It is estimated by 2028 32% of people under 40 will be renting.

The available data presents compelling facts and figures. And if current estimates are accurate, now may be a prudent time to consider expat buy-to-let as your next investment opportunity.

Regardless of perspective, the statistics indicate that UK property continues to be regarded as a reliable long-term investment. Analysis of investment returns over the past 18 years demonstrates the strong performance of the property market during this period.

Property will once again be a hot topic in 2026 and beyond. Whether it be a lack of homes being built or annual price inflation. This is sure to fuel the letting market as people struggle to find the funds needed for a house purchase.

Expats should seek independent mortgage advice; it’s a great deal easier!

Research shows many expat borrowers miss better mortgage deals by not consulting an independent adviser. As some offers are only accessible through such advisers or brokers.

Need assistance with your expat mortgage?

Our team of independent expat advisers possesses extensive experience in managing a wide variety of buy-to-let mortgage solutions. These include both single and multiple property arrangements. We offer access to an extensive selection of plans and are available to discuss your individual requirements. Contact Us for a no obligation initial discussion.

Expat UK Buy-to-Let Mortgage. Expats and the UK buy to let market are expanding rapidly

Expat buy-to-let mortgages enable UK nationals living abroad to invest in UK rental properties while residing overseas.

However, they differ from standard buy-to-let mortgages due to the complexities of international finance.

Consider these points before pursuing this type of investment.

• Lender Criteria
  • Lenders often have specific requirements regarding the applicant’s country of residence, income verification, and credit history.
  • Many lenders will have restrictions on the number of buy to let properties that one person can own.
  • It is common for lenders to require that the applicant hold a UK passport.
• Rental Income Coverage
  • Lenders assess the property’s potential rental income to ensure it covers the mortgage repayments.
• Currency Fluctuations
  • For those earning in foreign currencies, fluctuations can impact affordability. Lenders will factor this risk into their assessments.

Get expert help, it will pay in the long run!!

Expats should consult specialist mortgage brokers for independent advice on these complex mortgages.

Expat buy-to-let limited company mortgages.

The majority of the expat buy to let purchase transactions made through limited companies last year were related to additional property acquisitions, although the figures also include expats selling property they already own personally into a corporate structure. Once again before deciding if this is the route for you do get expert professional advice.

Can we help?

If you are looking for an expat new or re-mortgage, please do make contact. One of our fully qualified independent advisers will be happy to assist.