Society of Mortgage Professionals enhances buy-to-let CPD

27 September 2016

In the wake of significant changes to buy-to-let (BTL), in 2016, the Society of Mortgage Professionals has unveiled plans to deliver a CPD event programme dedicated to the sector.

The campaign will begin in October, when a series of five regional roadshows* will include a keynote session on complex BTLs and how to cater for the needs of today’s portfolio landlords, delivered by Connect for Intermediaries chief executive, Liz Syms.

The roadshows will be complemented by a webinar, on 26 October, featuring Legal and General Mortgage Club director, Jeremy Duncombe, who will provide an overview of the current state of the BTL market, followed by a specialist briefing by David Kilshaw, tax partner at Ernst & Young’s private client group.

And to complete their buy-to-let focus the society have just confirmed three specialist workshops: in London (25 October), Leeds (27) and Birmingham (28).

The full-day sessions will examine the current buy-to-let landscape in great detail. Practical examples will be used to equip advisers with knowledge on taxation rules and the calculations involved. They will also explore the likely impact of all the buy-to-let changes on first-time buyers and other areas that are of interest to advisers in the current climate.

Society of Mortgage Professionals head of professional development, Lee Travis, stressed the need for advisers to be able to accurately assess a buy-to-let client’s situation and the importance of seeking specialist tax advice.

“Buy-to-let has gone through some very significant changes this year and we do not think we have seen the last of them,” he commented.

“From 2017, higher and additional rate tax-paying landlords will no longer be able to claim full tax relief on the interest payments made on their BTL mortgage. Although this will be a phased adjustment and not fully implemented until 2020, it is vital that advisers are aware of what’s on the horizon, as advice given now could have huge ramifications on a client’s future tax position.”

The roadshows, webinar and workshops are available to both members and non-members. Further details, and how to register, can be obtained by e-mailing: info@thesmp.org

* The five regional roadshows begin at Haydock Racecourse on Tuesday 4 October, followed by East Midlands (5 October), Southampton (6 October), London (10 October) and Belfast (11 October).