11 August 2025 | Written by Mercantile Trust
Buy to Let Mortgages in Northern Ireland: A Complete Guide for Property Investors
Are you a landlord or aspiring property investor looking for buy to let mortgage options in Northern Ireland? Whether you're new to the market or expanding your portfolio, understanding how to secure a competitive mortgage is essential. At Mercantile Trust, we specialise in helping landlords across the UK — including those often overlooked in Northern Ireland — access flexible, common-sense lending options tailored to their needs.
Why Choose a Buy to Let Mortgage in Northern Ireland?
The Northern Ireland rental market continues to offer attractive returns, especially in major urban areas like Belfast, Dungannon, and Lisburn. Despite its investment potential, borrowers in this region often face limited mortgage availability, particularly when dealing with rural properties, non-standard construction, or first-time landlord status.
That’s where Mercantile Trust stands out. We offer First and Second charge Buy to Le Mortgage in Northern Ireland, along with bridging loans and homeowner business loans — even in cases where high street lenders might say no.
Am I Eligible for a Buy to Let Mortgage in Northern Ireland?
Deposit Requirements
Typically, you'll need a minimum deposit of 30%, just like in the rest of the UK. However, in some rural areas, lenders may require more due to perceived risk.
Property Type
Northern Ireland has a large number of rural and non-standard construction homes. While many lenders hesitate to finance these, Mercantile Trust accepts non-standard properties, such as those with thatched roofs or farm-style builds.
Geographic Considerations
Some lenders restrict lending based on location. We proudly cover all of Northern Ireland, offering the same quality of service whether you’re in Belfast or Ballymena.
Landlord Experience
If you're a first-time landlord, getting a mortgage can be more difficult — particularly in Northern Ireland. At Mercantile Trust, we’re open to first-time buy to let investors, provided your case meets our flexible lending criteria.
How to Get a Buy to Let Mortgage in Northern Ireland
Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:
1. Research the Rental Market
Identify high-demand areas with strong rental yields. Cities like Belfast, Lisburn, and Coleraine have great potential, particularly near universities or transport hubs.
2. Check Your Finances
Review your credit profile and assess your income and expenses. While some lenders have minimum income requirements, Mercantile Trust does not, making us a strong choice for self-employed and portfolio landlords.
3. Save for a Deposit
Buy to let mortgages generally require a higher deposit than residential mortgages. The more you can put down, the more options you’ll have.
4. Choose the Right Property
Look for properties that appeal to your target tenants — students, families, professionals — and consider the condition, location, and potential rental income.
5. Speak to a Specialist Lender
Unlike high street banks, we take a manual, common-sense approach to underwriting. Whether you’re buying, remortgaging, or refinancing, our team is ready to help.
Best Areas for Buy to Let Investment in Northern Ireland
Some of the top-performing locations include:
- Belfast – High yields, strong demand, great transport links
- Lisburn – Ideal for families and commuters
- Dungannon – Growing rental market with solid ROI
- Portrush & Coleraine – Student and holiday-let potential
- Omagh – Affordable entry prices and growing rental demand
These areas benefit from consistent demand, thanks to strong local economies, university populations, and excellent infrastructure.
Why Choose Mercantile Trust for Your Buy to Let Mortgage in Northern Ireland?
At Mercantile Trust, we specialise in buy to let lending with a difference:
- Loans from £10,000 to £150,000
- Adverse credit considered
- Borrow up to 70% Loan-to-Value (LTV)
- Non-standard construction accepted
- First and second charge loans
- Decision in 48 hours possible
- No upfront or hidden broker fees
We work both directly with borrowers and through intermediaries, so whether you're applying yourself or through a broker, we’re ready to help.
Ready to Apply for a Buy to Let Mortgage in Northern Ireland?
Speak to one of our UK-based expert team today.
Call us free on 0800 032 3737
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