"As rates remain higher than what landlords were used to, lenders will need to stay competitive by offering creative solutions that help with affordability"
- Ahmet Tunsay - OMS
PR: How are you adapting your lending criteria in response to the current challenges landlords face with affordability and regulatory change?
AT: We’re seeing landlords face real pressure with affordability and changing regulations, so we’ve focused on giving brokers the tools to adapt quickly. OMS lets you stress-test deals more accurately, filter lenders based on rental cover or EPC requirements, and capture detailed fact-find data to support bespoke underwriting.
It’s all about helping brokers place complex landlord cases with confidence, even in a tougher market.
PR: What types of properties or landlord profiles are currently seeing the most interest or success in securing buy-to-let finance?
AT: Right now, we're seeing the most traction with experienced portfolio landlords who have solid track records and strong rental yields, especially those investing in HMOs or multi-unit freehold blocks.
Lenders are also showing interest in landlords targeting properties with EPC ratings of C or above, as energy efficiency becomes more of a priority. Limited company structures continue to be popular too, as they offer tax advantages in the current landscape.
PR: How do you see interest rates and product innovation shaping the buy-to-let lending space over the next 12 months?
AT: From my perspective as a BDM at OMS, I think we’ll see a continued shift toward more innovative, flexible products, like part-and-part mortgages, longer-term fixed rates, and products designed for limited companies or HMOs. As rates remain higher than what landlords were used to, lenders will need to stay competitive by offering creative solutions that help with affordability.
Tech will also play a bigger role, CRMs like OMS can help brokers adapt faster by sourcing suitable products, tracking stress tests, and presenting cases more efficiently, which will be crucial as the market continues to evolve.
PR: Are you seeing increased demand from portfolio landlords, and how are your products designed to support more complex borrowing needs?
AT: Yes, we’re seeing more interest from portfolio landlords, especially those restructuring or expanding. OMS supports these complex cases by letting brokers manage multiple properties and SPVs in one place, capture detailed portfolio info, and share it directly with specialist lenders, making the process smoother and more efficient.
PR: What one piece of advice would you give to landlords looking to refinance or expand their portfolio in 2025?
AT: Start early and be organised. With affordability tighter and criteria more complex, having up-to-date property, income, and portfolio details ready can make all the difference. The more complete your case, the easier it is for your broker and lender to get you the best deal.
