Record numbers of landlords launched buy-to-let companies in 2023 – but what are the risks?

Increasing numbers of landlords are running buy-to-let portfolios in a company structure to manage higher mortgage rates. We explain the pros and cons

money being put in piggy bank
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Extra stamp duty and scaled back tax reliefs are making buy-to-let less attractive, but increasing numbers of landlords are holding on to some of the old perks by setting up limited companies for their portfolios.

Both individuals and companies have to pay the extra 3% stamp duty surcharge on additional homes, introduced in April 2016.

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Marc Shoffman
Contributing editor

Marc Shoffman is an award-winning freelance journalist specialising in business, personal finance and property. His work has appeared in print and online publications ranging from FT Business to The Times, Mail on Sunday and the i newspaper. He also co-presents the In For A Penny financial planning podcast.