Metro Bank has cut its minimum buy-to-let loan size from £100,000 to £50,000 as it continues to expand its presence in the landlord lending market.

The move applies to all new applications, including personal and limited company borrowing, as well as houses in multiple occupation and multi-unit freehold blocks.

Brokers will now be able to place smaller, regionally varied cases with the bank, which said the change reflects demand in areas where average purchase prices sit well below previous thresholds.

The announcement follows the bank’s return to 80% LTV buy-to-let lending last month and rate reductions across its residential and buy-to-let ranges.

It also marks a further step in the lender’s push into specialist markets after entering HMO and MUFB segments earlier in the year.

Charles Morley, director of mortgages distribution at Metro Bank, said: “We’re pleased to announce the reduction of our minimum buy-to-let loan size to £50,000.

“This announcement reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening our mortgage offering and we remain dedicated to supporting borrowers with flexible, accessible finance solutions.

“This change also reflects regional variations in average property prices, to enable prospective landlords across the country increased opportunities to invest.”