Yes, your first mortgage can be a buy to let in Nottingham, though the options are usually more limited compared to someone who already owns a residential property.

Some lenders are happy to consider first-time buyers and first-time landlords for buy to let mortgages, while others prefer applicants with previous homeownership experience. The lender will normally look closely at your income, deposit, credit history, and the expected rental income from the property before making a decision. 

Buying a rental property as your first property purchase can be a different experience to buying a home to live in yourself, especially when it comes to mortgage criteria and deposit requirements. 

Is It Harder to Get a Buy to Let Mortgage as a First-Time Buyer? 

Many lenders see first-time buyer landlords as slightly higher risk, particularly if the applicant has never managed a property before. This often means the lending criteria can be stricter.

In some cases, lenders may expect: 

  • A larger deposit
  • Strong personal income
  • A good credit profile
  • Lower levels of existing debt  

Certain lenders are much more flexible than others, which is why speaking with our mortgage advisors in Nottingham before applying can be useful. 

How Much Deposit Do You Need? 

Most first-time buyer buy to let mortgages require at least a 20% to 25% deposit.

Some lenders may ask for more depending on the property type, your income, or the expected rental income. A larger deposit can also improve the range of mortgage products available to you. 

As with other buy to let mortgages, lenders will usually assess whether the rental income comfortably covers the monthly mortgage payments. 

Can You Live in the Property? 

No, not with a standard buy to let mortgage.

Buy to let mortgages in Nottingham are designed for properties that will be rented out to tenants. If you plan to live in the property yourself, you would normally need a residential mortgage instead. 

Lenders take occupancy rules seriously, so it is important to apply for the correct type of mortgage from the start. 

Why Some First-Time Buyers Choose Buy to Let 

Some first-time buyers see buy to let as a way to begin investing in property before purchasing a home for themselves later on.

Others may already live with family, work elsewhere temporarily, or want to build long-term rental income through property investment. 

Areas across Nottingham with strong rental demand can appeal to first-time landlords looking to enter the property market for the first time. 

What Will Lenders Look At? 

Alongside your deposit and income, lenders will usually review your wider financial background before approving a first-time buyer buy to let mortgage.

This can include your: 

  • Credit history
  • Employment type  
  • Existing financial commitments  
  • Age  
  • Expected rental income  

Some lenders may also place restrictions on certain property types, particularly flats above commercial premises or non-standard construction homes. 

Understanding Your Buy to Let Options 

Getting a buy to let mortgage as a first-time buyer in Nottingham can sometimes feel more specialist, especially as lender criteria can vary quite a bit.

Speaking with our mortgage advisors in Nottingham can help you understand which lenders are more open to first-time buyer landlords and what mortgage options may be available based on your circumstances. 

Date Last Edited: May 11, 2026