Can I get a buy to let mortgage as a first time buyer?

It is possible, but the choice of lenders is much smaller and the terms are usually worse.

Most buy to let lenders want you to already own a home, on the basis that an existing mortgage record is what they are underwriting. Those that will lend to a first time buyer often want a larger deposit and a minimum income.

Buying an investment before a home also affects the stamp duty position on a later purchase, and it removes first time buyer relief when you do come to buy somewhere to live.

Whether it makes sense depends on your own plans, which is a conversation with a broker rather than an article.