Is there a list of smaller specialist/BTL lenders?

GMS

You could save yourself a lot of hassle by appointing a broker.

As many BTL lenders are broker only all the searching in the world won't find them without a broker.

michaels

Try the coventry

begtodiffer

Using Moneysupermarket, selecting BTL mortgages then scrolling past the obvious big names who don't want my business and clicking on Show More, I now see all these North of Watford specialist lenders who might actually understand the BTL market.
Despite many pagings thru, The Coventry does not show up. So add The Coventry to the list.

Regarding brokers, if a brokers website clearly states upfront that they do All Of Market (as MSE recommends), plus clearly indicate their fee structure, I might be interested.

ACG

Brokers websites should have wording that says something along the lines of:

There may be a fee for mortgage advice. Our charges can range from £xxx/Our fee is typically x% of the mortgage amount.

Speaking from a personal perspective any fee i charge is based on the work involved/commission paid from the lender so to give an accurate fee upfront is difficult. Some brokers charge a set fee/set percentage of the mortgage amount, and so that would be easier for you to work out i suppose.

GMS

Speak to a broker and agree a fee (if any). Once you have been provided with a Terms of Business letter (Not IDD for BTL) then you have it in writing.

Fee statements can say 'MAY' 'Up to' 'Estimated fee of..) etc.

Money Supermarket does not filter accurately. You need somebody who knows what they are doing not a website who will sell your contact details on