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According to the Financial Times, bridging cash loans for property rose by 8.5% in the first 3 months of 2022 in the UK! 

Bridging loans are just that: a financial bridge. They’re short-term loans that are secured against an existing property. They provide funds while you’re waiting for something else to happen.

For instance, you may need a bridging loan to carry out renovations on your new property.

You could use the finance to buy cheap property at auctions or even purchase a property that a mainstream lender won’t provide funding for. 

If you want to sell a property, you can take out a bridging loan to cover refurbishment costs. Many people can cover the entire refurbishment cost with the profits from selling their property.

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With a bridging loan, interest is charged monthly. The interest rate you charge will be based on your financial standing, earnings, and loan to value.

Most deals won’t go beyond 50% loan to value on residential property.

How Are Bridging Loans Charged?

In general, bridging loans when purchasing property cost around 1-2% of your loan amount.

This is charged in the form of an arrangement fee by the provider.

Other costs associated with bridging loans include:

  • Interest charges (monthly)
  • Survey and valuation fees
  • Broker fees
  • Legal fees
  • Administration fees including redemption and drawdown fees

Typical Costs Involved with a Bridging Loan

  • Arrangement fees – this is usually around 2%
  • Redemption fees – this is the fee charged to remove the legal charge from your property once it’s paid off
  • Loan drawdown fees – this is a general admin fee that’s around £295 
  • Exit fees – some lenders don’t charge this, but many do. It’s a 1.25% charge because your loan is paid off.
  • Electronic transfer fees – this fee is around £25

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Interest Rates on Bridging Loans

Interest rates work very differently on a bridging loan than they do on a regular mortgage. Instead of being worked out as an annual figure, the interest rate is provided as a monthly amount.

This is because some bridging finance deals last less than a year.

They’re also calculated on a daily basis once you’ve completed the first month of the term, which means that if you choose to settle your loan early, you’ll only pay the interest amount up to that date.

Factors that Affect the Interest Rate on a Bridging Loans

If you’re applying for a bridging loan, how the interest is charged will depend on the type of loan you get.

Unregulated loans usually come with monthly interest charges, but some lenders may let you roll all the interest and repay it at the end of the term.

Regulated loans require interest to be paid at the end. The following are aspects that will influence the interest rate you’re charged on your bridging loan. 

  • Whether the Loan is Regulated or Not

If the bridging loan is for your private home, it will be regulated by the FCA.

If it’s not for your home and someone else will live in the property, it’s an unregulated loan and is, therefore, riskier. Unregulated loans come with higher fees.

  • Your Credit Score

Even if you have a bad credit score, you may still qualify for and be granted a bridging loan, but this often means you’ll have a higher interest rate attached.

Applicants with the best credit scores don’t always get the lowest interest rates, though.

If the property you need the bridging loan for is old, can’t be mortgaged, or will require considerable work to get it up to standard with no guarantee of generating the funds, a higher interest rate may automatically apply.

It’s not as straightforward as saying that the best credit scores will get the lowest interest rates. 

  • Property Location

Lenders view prime location properties more favourably as there’s a higher chance you can sell the property or make the required rental to pay back the bridging loan. As such, remote or rural locations often get higher interest rates.

  • Loan-to-Value Ratio

The lower your loan-to-value ratio is, the lower the interest rate you’ll be charged. For instance, a loan with a 50% LTV will have a lower interest rate than an 80% LTV loan.

That said, it comes down to the individual lender as to what the actual rate will be. A mortgage broker can ensure you get the lowest possible interest rate.

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  • Required Loan Length

If you know you only need a bridging loan for a short period of time, usually less than a year, your broker may be able to assist you in securing a lower interest rate than the standard.

It’s a good idea to chat with a mortgage broker about the loan amount you need and how much you can afford to pay every month so that they can try and negotiate with bridging loan providers on your behalf. 

  • Perceived Risk

If you’re hoping to renovate a property that may be in a very bad condition, you may find that the interest rates are higher.

If you can prove that the investment from the lender isn’t very risky, the lender may be open to more negotiable interest rates. 

Bridging Loan Costs in the UK Conclusion

Using a professional mortgage broker to secure a bridging loan is the best possible direction to take.

A mortgage advisor or broker can liaise with mortgage browsers on your behalf and ensure that you get the best possible rates and fees so that you can save on costs throughout the process. 

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

According to Statista, the value of buy-to-let mortgages in the UK in 2024 at this point sits at around £11 billion, showing that the market is booming.

And if you’re in the market to purchase a buy-to-let property, you may wonder if you need the assistance of a mortgage broker, or if you can approach the purchase alone.

It may be tempting to forego the assistance of professional mortgage broker services to save on costs, but this could end up costing you more in the long run.

Below, we answer pertinent questions relating to buy-to-let mortgages and the role of professional mortgage brokers in the process. 

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What is a Buy-to-Let Mortgage?

A buy-to-let mortgage is used when the homeowner doesn’t wish to take occupancy of the property personally but will rent it out for a profit.

Fees and rates are typically higher on a buy-to-let mortgage as there’s perceived added risk, most likely because one cannot guarantee that their tenant will always pay in full and on time.

The amount you can borrow for a buy-to-let mortgage is based on your salary and how much you expect to charge as rent on the property.

What are Buy-to-Let Mortgage Terms?

While all buy-to-let mortgage providers UK have their own terms, most follow the same or similar terms as the following:

  • Loan-to-value set at a max of 80% meaning that borrowers must come up with a 20% deposit.
  • Loan options from £100,000.
  • Interest set on variable, fixed, or tracker options.
  • Capital and interest loans or interest-only loans.
  • Amount allowed based on the income you’ll make on the property and how much you make in terms of regular salary.

A note on stamp duties: As part of a buy-to-let property, you must understand how stamp duties work. In general, stamp duties are around 3% higher than a first home’s.

Homes up to £125,000 usually have zero stamp duties, whereas a buy-to-let comes with 3% attached.

For first homes that range between £125,001 and £150,000, you can expect to pay 2% stamp duties and 5% stamp duties if the property is a second home on a buy-to-let mortgage.

Properties between £925,000 and £1.5 million come with 10% stamp duties on first homes and 13% on buy-to-let second homes. 

How Do Lenders Calculate the Max Amount They’ll Give You?

There’s no hard and fast rule on how UK buy-to-let mortgage providers will calculate how much you can borrow, but a “worst case scenario” calculation may give you some idea of how this is worked out. 

First, the mortgage provider will need an annual rental amount to work with, which is done by multiplying the expected rental amount by 12.

Then, divide the amount by 140% to come to a figure. Then, divide that figure by 5.5%.

In 2017, the tax for landlords was increased, which means that worst-case scenario calculations are a safer way for mortgage providers in the UK to estimate how much borrowers can apply for.

There are several instances where it’s possible to borrow more than this calculated amount, such as:

  • Your current salary is large
  • You purchase property through a limited company
  • You get a 5-year fixed-rate
  • Use a lender that doesn’t use the above “worst case scenario” calculation 

When & Why Using a Buy-to-Let Broker is a Good Idea

Many types of buy-to-let mortgages in the UK are available, and each may have its own set of criteria.

A buy-to-let broker has specialist knowledge for different scenarios, including buy-to-let mortgages for:

  • First-time buyers and first-time landlords
  • Foreign nationals
  • Corporates
  • British expats
  • Student lets
  • Large purchases over £1,000,000
  • Several units on property
  • Limited companies
  • Properties for holiday rentals
  • HMO

And more!

A buy-to-let mortgage provider can review your current financial situation and ensure that you only apply for an amount you’ll get approved for and can realistically afford.

Also, when choosing the mortgage type required for your UK buy-to-let, a professional mortgage broker can consider your investment goals and forecasts and ensure you end up with the right package from the right mortgage provider.

Working with a specialised buy-to-let mortgage broker means you’ll have access to offers from buy-to-let lenders, private banks, high street banks, and building societies.

You can save yourself a lot of time, money, and disappointment by using a buy-to-let broker with industry knowledge and experience to match.

Times When the Use of a UK Buy-to-Let Mortgage Broker is Particularly Useful

There are times when using a buy-to-let mortgage broker is particularly useful. These include:

  • When switching from a regular mortgage to a buy-to-let mortgage. This means you’ll move out of your property to another main residence or a rental property so that you can rent out your current property. 
  • You wish to have a regular mortgage but rent the rooms to lodgers. 
  • You wish to rent your property without a buy-to-let mortgage because your circumstances have changed. You will need assistance getting permission from your current mortgage provider to let. 
  • You need to access some of the equity you already have in the existing buy-to-let mortgage. A mortgage broker will help you approach this from the best possible angle with the lender.
  • You wish to have an interest-only buy-to-let mortgage on a UK property. 

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Buy to Let Mortgage Broker UK Conclusion

The benefits of utilising the services of a professional buy-to-let mortgage broker are undeniable. You can save time by applying for the right package with the right lender.

You can even get professional assistance with paperwork to ensure the lender has everything they need the first time instead of experiencing delays in the process.

Buy-to-let mortgage brokers know what mortgage providers in the UK are looking for and their criteria. Your chances of getting approved for your buy-to-let mortgage are increased simply by using a broker.

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

With so many mortgage types available on the market, it can seem a little overwhelming.

Two popular mortgage types in the UK are undoubtedly interest-only mortgages and repayment mortgages. 

According to a report by Statista, in 2022, interest-only mortgages in the UK made up 12% of the market share with an even split between fixed-rate and variable interest options.

The same report tells us that in the same year, 86% of mortgages were repayment mortgages, with 73% on a fixed rate and 13% on a variable rate.

Property buyers, especially first-time buyers, may wonder if they should look for a capital repayment mortgage or an interest-only mortgage, and that’s what you’re about to find out!

Repayment Mortgages and Interest-Only Mortgages in the UK at a Glance

Repayment Mortgage Interest-Only Mortgage
Repayment of loan Pay back a portion of the interest and the capital amount each month Pay back only the interest amount in instalments each month.
At the end of the term At the end of the term, you’ll have paid of the property in full At the end of the loan term, you’ll need to settle the capital amount as a lump sum
Payment amount Higher monthly payments than an interest-only loan Lower monthly payments than a repayment loan

What’s the Difference Between Repayment Mortgages and Interest-Only Mortgages?

Mortgages need a repayment strategy, and that’s why choosing the right type of mortgage is important.

If you cannot pay your monthly instalments, the lender may repossess the property! Understanding what sets interest-only and repayment mortgages apart is important. 

Interest-only mortgages cater to paying off only the total interest charged on the mortgage. 

Repayment mortgages focus on paying back the total amount, including a portion of the interest and capital amount. 

You may find that interest-only mortgages have lower monthly instalments attached, but that doesn’t particularly mean that interest-only mortgages are the best route.

If you don’t have a lump sum available at the end of the loan to pay off the capital amount, you’ll find yourself in a financial pickle.

A Closer Look at an Interest-Only Mortgage in the UK

While interest-only mortgages in the UK come with lower monthly instalments, they come with a big downside: the large lump sum you’ll have to pay towards the capital amount borrowed at the end of the term.

Applying for this type of mortgage is only recommended if you’re certain you’ll have the lump sum available at the end of the term.

Most borrowers have an asset or an investment they plan to sell or withdraw from at the end of their interest-only mortgage to settle the outstanding amount.

Popular investments to pay off an interest-only mortgage’s capital amount include a pension, investment fund, or ISA.

The sale of an asset, such as property or using an inheritance, is also accepted. 

It’s important to note that a mortgage provider won’t grant such a loan to someone who doesn’t have a definitive repayment strategy to present. This will be checked for viability during the loan application. 

It’s hard not to be attracted to an interest-only mortgage in the UK.

After all, you’ll be paying a lower monthly instalment, which provides a bit of breathing room, and you’ll enjoy greater control over your investments and how you’ll save towards the final payment.

There’s always the risk of your intended repayment plan for the capital amount falling through or not performing, which means that interest-only mortgages aren’t suited to people who don’t have a solid repayment strategy. 

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A Closer Look at a Repayment Mortgage in the UK

One of the perks of a repayment mortgage in the UK is that with each monthly payment, you’re reducing the total amount you owe. At the end of the term, there’s no lump sum to worry about.

You’ll have paid off the total loan and the property will be yours – no additional fees required. 

With repayment mortgages, the amount of interest you pay over the total term of your loan is less because you’ll be actively reducing the total amount owed each month.

As the term of your mortgage progresses, you may even find that you’re eligible for lower interest rates as the total outstanding has reduced. 

There’s less risk involved as you won’t need to have a repayment strategy for a large lump sum at the end of your loan term. Instead, you’ll own the property outright. 

Switching Between Mortgage Types

It’s fairly common for buyers on an interest-only mortgage in the UK to consider switching to a repayment mortgage.

While this can be tricky because you will be moving into a much higher monthly instalment, some lenders will approve such a switch.

The options are varied, including:

  • Opting for a part and part mortgage where you can make payments towards your outstanding capital amount as well.
  • Keep the same term and interest rate while switching to a repayment mortgage with your existing mortgage provider.
  • Opting to apply for a new repayment mortgage deal with your current mortgage provider. 
  • Approaching a new lender to remortgage your existing deal onto a repayment mortgage option.

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Using a Professional Mortgage Broker

If you intend to switch between mortgage types, it’s always best to acquire the assistance of a professional mortgage broker or advisor who can advise you on the mortgage providers to approach, what to do to increase your chances of approval, and also, to help you search the market for better deals that may save you money in the long run.

Consulting with a mortgage broker may save you time and hassle, making the process of buying a property or switching from one mortgage type to another less of a headache.

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

Statistics featured by Statista show us that when Covid 19 struck, home buyer levels plummeted to below 2016 levels, spurring on the government to introduce schemes like the Help to Buy scheme. 

One of the biggest perks of the Help to Buy mortgage scheme is that first-time buyers only needed to accrue a 5% deposit. The government would provide an equity loan to the value of 20% of the purchase price.

The mortgage was interest-free for five years, and the mortgage provided, thanks to the government contribution, was 75% of the property value. 

According to the UK government, Help to Buy mortgage schemes were introduced in 2021. A short-lived success, the scheme was closed to new applications on 31 October 2022.

Transactions part of the scheme were meant to be finalised by 31 March 2022, but some homebuilders were allowed to extend until 31 May 2023 to make it easier for buyers to complete the purchasing process. 

Now that the Help to Buy scheme is discontinued, people hoping to get assistance in buying a UK home may wonder what their options are.

What are the alternatives to the Help to Buy scheme in the UK?

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Alternatives to the Help to Buy Scheme

There is no official government alternative to the Help to Buy mortgage scheme, but several options can serve as viable alternatives to the scheme.

Some of the options you can consider, include the following:

  • Deposit Unlock

Deposit Unlock is very similar to the Buy to Let scheme in that it focuses on funding the purchase of a new build with a 5% deposit as opposed to the usual 20% requirement.

With this scheme, the builder will insure the mortgage, which leads to the lender seeing the transaction as less risky when providing a 95% mortgage. 

  • Deposit Boost

If you’re renting a property and paying high bills thanks to the cost-of-living crisis, it wouldn’t be surprising that saving a hefty deposit for purchasing a home can be challenging. 

If you’re in the process of saving a deposit and have family and friends who may be interested in helping you, a deposit boost could be the answer.

Deposit Boost mortgages are unlike guarantor mortgages. With a guarantor mortgage, the guarantor is linked to your loan, which means if you don’t pay, they become liable.

On the contrary, Deposit Boost options, the person assisting you can remortgage their property to release some equity for your deposit. If you default on your mortgage, it won’t have an impact on that person whatsoever. 

  • Professional Mortgage

If you’re a doctor, accountant, lawyer, or nurse, the lender may consider you for a professional mortgage.

This type of mortgage allows the application to borrow around 5 or 6 times their salary and pay the lowest possible deposit of 5% if buying a property that’s not a new build.

Only applicants who have qualified in the last 10 years are eligible for a professional mortgage and will need to prove that they are registered and licensed with the required professional bodies in the UK.

  • Income Boost Mortgage

Income boost mortgages are like deposit boost options. They increase buying potential by making it possible for a family member or friend to add their income to yours when making the mortgage application.

This makes it similar to a joint mortgage, too. As mortgage providers generally only allow mortgage totals of 4 or 5 times a person’s salary, adding an additional income to the application can make it possible to afford a home that better suits your needs.

One of the perks of this type of mortgage is that you can add more than one booster to the mortgage to increase your buying power.

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  • Springboard Mortgage

These mortgages are sometimes referred to as “Savings as Security” mortgages and are another way family members can help buyers purchase the property they want.

Instead of remortgaging their home or adding their income to your application, the springboard mortgage enables family members to use their savings as security on your application.

This is usually based on willing family members putting up a 10% percentage of the property’s value into a savings account held by the lender.

The money stays in the savings account for a set period, and as long as you make your regular monthly payments, the amount will be returned to them with interest, as you will then own a certain amount of equity in the property.

  • Shared Ownership Mortgage

Buyers who can’t afford the mortgage they need to purchase a property can choose to buy a share in the property and pay rent on the amount they cannot afford.

Most homeowners can buy between 10% and 75% of the home’s value.

In such an instance, the balance of the property will be owned by the local council, a housing association, or a private company.

This entity will be the landlord and charge rent on the portion of the property that they own.

If you want to eventually own the entire property, you can choose to do something called “staircasing” which means you gradually increase your share in the property until you own it outright.

  • Dynamic Ownership Mortgage

If you have a group of trusted friends or family members that would be willing to purchase property together, a dynamic ownership mortgage may be the right choice for you.

This type of mortgage allows the purchase of a property with up to 5 other people.

What’s great about this mortgage is that everyone contributes to paying the property off and individual contributions can be tracked.

If you ever choose to sell the property, your share will be determined by what portion of the property you paid off. 

  • Deposit Loan

You can boost your deposit with the help of a close family member or loved one. This person’s money is not a gift but a contribution in exchange for a share in the home.

Of course, if you don’t want to give the person a share in your property, you could look for a close family member willing to give you an interest-free loan that can be repaid when the property is sold. You’ll both be considered co-owners.

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What Will Replace Help to Buy? Conclusion

Each of these mortgage options would be a viable alternative to the Buy to Let scheme that is no longer available.

If you aren’t sure which option is best suited to your financial situation, it’s recommended to consult with a mortgage advisor who can give you unbiased and sound advice based on your situation and how viable each mortgage option is.

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

Buy-to-let mortgages are a popular route for buying property for investment purposes and income in the UK.

According to Statista, in 2021, the total value of buy-to-let (BTL) mortgages far exceeded that of mortgages for personal home purchases.

The same report forecasts that buy-to-let mortgages in the UK 2024 will be worth around 11 billion pounds.

These statistics show that the buy-to-let market is thriving in the UK and is expected to continue.

But how much can you, as a potential landlord, borrow for a Buy-to-let property?

First and foremost, understanding what a buy-to-let mortgage is is important.

A buy-to-let mortgage is aimed at landlords who want to purchase a property to rent it to another person/family for profit.

A buy-to-let mortgage’s terms and conditions differ from a regular residential mortgage.

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Who Should Get a Buy-to-Let Mortgage and How Should They Get One?

Anyone who wishes to purchase a property to rent it for profit must get a buy-to-let mortgage in the UK.

Because the property will be rented to another individual and not the owner, the lender may see the situation as risky and impose certain conditions.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Applicants must have good credit in order to get approved.
  • Some lenders require applicants to prove that they earn at least £25,000 per year.
  • You cannot apply for a buy-to-let mortgage if you are over 75. Some lenders have a lower age restriction.
  • Buy-to-let mortgages usually require a minimum deposit of 25%.
  • The lender will provide you with funding depending on how much rental you earn on the property. Your rental amount should cover at least 125% of the monthly instalments.

The Finer Details of a Buy to Let Mortgage?

When applying for buy-to-let mortgages, you’ll find that their fees and interest rates are generally higher than other loan types.

While some lenders require a 25% deposit, others may require between 20% and 40%, depending on your financial situation.

Most lenders provide buy-to-let mortgages on an interest-only basis.

This means that the instalment you pay each month only covers the interest on the loan, and when the loan term ends, you will have to settle the final balance as a lump sum.

Ensure you know this lump sum to ensure you’ll afford it. If you want a regular repayment mortgage, ensure that you request this with the mortgage provider.

What is the Maximum You Can Borrow for a Buy to Let Property?

Regardless of how much you earn (not related to the property), the lender assisting you will be reluctant to borrow you an amount that cannot reasonably be recovered with profit from the rental amount.

Most lenders require the set rental on the property to be around 30% higher than the monthly mortgage instalment.

If the mortgage amount looks like it won’t be covered with a little extra from the rental, the lender may require you to put down a larger deposit.

Consulting with a rental agent or looking through local rental listings may give you a better idea of what you can realistically afford to charge in rent on your new property. 

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Of course, affordability will play a role. Because lenders provide around 75% to 80% LTV on buy-to-let mortgages, you’ll need to put down 20% to 20% deposit.

You can then request information on the interest rate and fees charged to you, add this to your capital amount and work out the expected monthly instalments.

It’s a good idea only to apply for mortgage amounts that you can comfortably repay each month, or you may find yourself in a financial pickle a few months into your mortgage.

What Taxes Are Charged on Buy-to-Let Mortgages?

Tax is an unavoidable inconvenience, and if you’re getting into a buy-to-let mortgage, it’s best that you’re aware of the taxes you’ll be liable for. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Capital Gains Tax

If you’re earning an income from a property, you’ll be expected to pay tax on it. Capital gains tax is one of two types of tax you can expect to pay on buy-to-let properties. 

If your buy-to-let property is your second property, you can expect to pay capital gains tax of 18%.

Capital gains tax will be charged if you sell the property and profit more than £6,000. It’s a little different if you’re a joint owner.

For instance, if you purchase a BTL property with another person, the threshold can be doubled, allowing a gain of £12,000 before being taxed.

Owners can deduct certain bills from their capital gains tax amount, such as any losses on the sale of a property, estate agent fees, stamp duties, and solicitor fees.

All profits must be reported to the HMRC, and if there’s tax due, you will get one month to settle it.

  • Income Tax

Any income you earn from your BTL property is seen as taxable, so income tax will apply. You must declare your income on a self-assessment tax return that applies to the year it was accrued.

Your income tax band will determine the fee, but this can range from 20% to 45%.

Deducting some expenses from your rental income to reduce your income tax amount is possible. This includes council tax, property maintenance costs, and letting agent fees.

How Much Can I Borrow For A Buy To Let Conclusion

If you’re interested in applying for a buy-to-let mortgage, it’s advised to consult with a professional mortgage broker who can explain how the mortgage works, what you can realistically afford based on your current financial position and the property you may be interested in and point you in the right direction in terms of making your initial application.

If you’re in the market for an investment property in the UK and want to get the ball rolling, get in touch with a professional mortgage advisor today!

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

There are several ways that you can buy property in the UK. If you wish to buy property and take personal residence, you may wonder if there are ways you can purchase that property that helps you cut back on costs and taxes.

You could buy the property through a personal mortgage or opt for another type of mortgage, with limited company mortgages being a popular option.

According to the Office for National Statistics in 2021, around 62.5% of households own the accommodation they live in with around 37.3% renting property. 

If you have a limited company in the UK that owns property, you may wonder if you can take residential occupation of the property.

The answer is yes, you can live in a house owned by your limited company, but it’s not recommended. 

If you don’t understand tax and how mortgages work, you may want to consult a mortgage advisor before purchasing a property through your limited company for personal occupation. That’s because things can get a little tricky. 

Understanding how to purchase property through a limited company will help you better understand if it’s a process that’s worthwhile for you financially or not.

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Benefit in Kind (BIK)

One of the first things you need to know is that if you’re residing in a property that’s acquired through your limited company, it may be seen as some kind of perk.

The one you need to know about is the “Benefit in Kind” scenario.

Benefit in Kind is something that may apply to you if you choose to live in a property that you purchase through your limited company.

As an employee of your company, living on the property may be seen as notional pay or fringe benefits by the HMRC. And fringe benefits and notional pay are taxed at a rate between 20% and 45%.

Of course, you can get around this taxation, but you’ll then need to pay full commercial rent to the limited company.

25% corporation tax will also apply if you choose to sell the property in the future, where this tax amount doesn’t apply to a personal property sale.

Is it Possible to Buy Investment Property or a Buy to Let Through a Limited Company?

Many people use their limited company to buy a buy to let property or investment property. There are some benefits to expect.

For instance, when buying such a property through a company, the corporation tax is 25%, whereas when you buy a private property personally, the tax is 45%.

Private landlords can no longer subtract the cost of a mortgage from rental income, whereas this is possible with a company.

Disadvantages of Buying Property Through a Limited Company

One of the biggest challenges you’ll face is that not many mortgage companies are keen to offer limited companies mortgages.

In some instances where it is possible, the mortgage company may expect the company directors to provide personal guarantees on the home loan. 

Mortgage companies see mortgages for limited companies as a higher risk than a personal mortgage, which may be reflected in the higher interest rates.

There’s also the possibility of incurring capital gains tax if you have to sell a property to your new company and that property has increased in value.

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Overview of Pros and Cons of Buying Property Through a Limited Company

A general understanding of the pros and cons of buying property for personal use through a limited company can help you determine what the best course of action is for you.

Pros:

  • Tax savings

Buyers can cut back on tax by buying property through a limited company.

For private landlords, the profits are taxed through income tax, shares, dividends, and salaries between 20% and 45% whereas property bought through a limited company comes with lower corporation tax at 25%.

  • Mortgage tax savings

Limited companies that own property can treat interest charged on the mortgage as an operating expense, which means you could get a 100% relief on the income.

Cons:

  • Fewer options

Not all mortgage providers will approve loan applications for property through a limited company.  With fewer options, it’s harder to find a mortgage package that perfectly suits your situation. 

  • Tax

When you take money out of the limited company, you’ll face a few challenges in terms of withdrawals and tax implications. The money needs to be taken out as dividends or a salary.

In terms of dividends, the first £2000 is free from tax, but anything above that will come with costs between 8.75% and 39.35%. This is tax over and above corporation tax.

Reduced dividend exemptions are expected from April 2024.

In terms of salaries, PAYE and national insurance contributions are expected and these can be higher than the tax fees charged on dividends. 

  • Property transfer costs

If you own private buy to let properties, you won’t be able to transfer them to your company cost-free.

The transaction is seen as a regular buy/sell, which means the traditional costs involved will apply, including mortgage repayment costs, legal fees stamp duties, and capital gains tax.

Can I Live in a House Owned by My Limited Company? Conclusion

Deciding whether to purchase a property privately or through a limited company is a decision that affects you financially for the long term.

It’s a good idea to speak with your account or tax consultant and to also get some guidance from a professional mortgage broker or advisor with experience in the field.

With the right advice and guidance, you’ll be able to decide what type of mortgage route is best for you in your current situation. 

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

The idea of getting a mortgage to buy your first home in the UK may be exciting until you see the deposit requirements!

Many potential buyers find themselves able to afford mortgage repayments but can’t drive up the funds to put down the initial deposit. 

In most instances, mortgage providers require the borrower to put down a 5% deposit, meaning you’d need to shop around to find a mortgage provider who can front you the remaining 95%. 

The good news is that some lenders offer 100% loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages, sometimes called no-deposit mortgages.

LTV mortgages in the UK are based on the buyer borrowing the entire amount to purchase the property. 

While 100% LTV mortgages are available, it’s important to note that lenders view borrowers who can provide a deposit more favourably.

And the more deposit you can drum up, the more likely you will get approval from a UK mortgage provider. 

While 5% to 20% are the most common deposit amounts provided by buyers, the bigger the deposit, the more likely you are to get funding and, of course, the better the interest rate offered may be.  

But what if you don’t have a deposit available or don’t necessarily want to pay one? 

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Getting a 0% Deposit

While 0% mortgages aren’t impossible, they are rare. This type of mortgage is best suited to people who cannot save up enough to put a deposit down on a new home.

During the financial crisis between 2007 and 2008, most lenders stopped offering 100% mortgages. 100% mortgage options only recently returned to the regular mortgage market. 

The best candidates for 100% mortgages are people who:

  • Have an excellent credit score
  • Can prove their regular, sufficient income
  • Have minimal or no existing debt

Mortgage providers look for affordability, so it’s also important to apply for a mortgage amount that you can realistically afford.

Along with the major perk of getting a mortgage with no deposit, it’s important to understand the possible drawbacks of a 100% mortgage, aka a 0% deposit mortgage. These include the following:

  • Higher interest rates than regular deposit-based mortgages
  • Establishment and application fees may be higher
  • The possibility of negative equity if the value of your new home drops

What Are the Alternative Options to a No-Deposit Mortgage?

It stands to reason that many people who apply for no deposit mortgages in the UK may be rejected/denied.

If that’s the case, you may wonder what your alternative options are.

Below are a few avenues you should consider if your application for a 0% deposit mortgage is rejected:

  1. Guarantor Mortgages UK

You may be able to increase your chances of a 0% deposit mortgage in the UK if you have a guarantor.

In such instances, a family member or friend who has their own mortgage (or is a homeowner) and a good credit score with regular income must elect to co-sign the mortgage contract with you.

This increases your chances of approval because the guarantor’s home is used to secure the loan.

This is risky for the guarantor as their home can be repossessed if they default on the terms of their home loan.

Alternatively, the guarantor can use their savings to help you secure the mortgage. The mortgage provider will require the guarantor to provide a lump sum, which they will put into a savings account as security.

The guarantor can only access their savings again when you have settled a certain amount of your mortgage.

  1. Shared Ownership Mortgages

Another viable alternative to no-deposit mortgages is the shared ownership mortgages available in the UK. With a shared ownership mortgage, you can purchase a certain percentage of a home.

This amount usually ranges from 25% to 75%, with the developer or the local authority owning the balance. You’ll pay a rental amount on the percentage you do not own.

The perk of such a deal is that the required deposit is usually small, between 5% and 10%, and the mortgage amount is smaller.

  1. Right to Buy Mortgages

If you’ve been living in council housing, you may be able to take advantage of a right to buy mortgage.

This applies to people who have lived in council housing for 3 or more years, entitling them to reduced rates.

For some, the discount can be as high as 70% of the home’s total cost. Sometimes, mortgage providers may even consider the discount you receive as a deposit amount.

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  1. Joint Mortgages in UK

If you have a partner or family member you’d like to invest in property with, a joint mortgage in the UK may be the option for you.

The upside of a joint mortgage is that the mortgage provider will consider your combined income for affordability and you can then split the monthly instalment, making your personal responsibility less demanding on your budget. 

Can I Get a No Deposit Mortgage if I am Self-Employed?

Most self-employed people worry they cannot get a mortgage because they don’t have a payslip to prove their income.

The reality is that the same criteria apply to self-employed people as traditionally employed people.

If you’re applying for a mortgage of any kind as a self-employed individual, you will need to provide two full years’ worth of financials for the mortgage provider to consider.

You’ll also need to meet the usual requirements, such as being of legal age, proof of paying your rent for the past 12 to 18 months, and proof of affordability.

Most mortgage providers will allow borrowers to apply for up to 4.5 times their income.

Deposit Free Mortgage UK Conclusion

Applying for a mortgage in the UK is a big step for anyone.

If you’re not entirely sure of your options or want some assistance calculating what you can afford and determining which lenders are best to approach, acquiring the advice of a professional mortgage advisor is advised. 

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

When buying property in the UK, you’ll need to decide which type of mortgage is right for you.

Tracker and fixed mortgage are common options, but there are others to choose from.

With many mortgage deals to choose from and interest rates that fluctuate depending on the lender or deal type, it’s important to know your options and which are best suited to your financial situation. 

There are three main types of mortgages in the UK:

  1. Capital repayment mortgages
  2. Interest only mortgages
  3. Part and part mortgages

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Capital Repayment Mortgages in UK

Capital repayment mortgages have a simple loan format. The total amount that you borrow, along with the interest, is split over the mortgage term.

For instance, if you take out a 30-year mortgage, by the end of the 30 years, you’ll have paid off the entire debt, including the interest.

The first years of the mortgage are focused on paying off the interest amount; then, as the mortgage ages, you’ll end up paying the actual debt balance.

Interest Only Mortgages UK

For many, an interest only mortgage UK is a win, but they’re not as easy to get as they were a few years ago. Those who get them do so because there’s a solid plan to get the capital paid.

If you do manage to get an interest only mortgage, you’ll only focus on paying the interest amount of the debt for the entire term of the loan.

When the term ends, you’ll have only paid the interest and will be expected to pay the actual debt off in a lump sum. 

You’ll need to prove that you can build up the lump sum in some way over the mortgage term. Mortgage providers expect you to illustrate how you’ll pay off the mortgage.

Most buyers with an interest-only mortgage rely on accrued savings to cover the final lump sum, while others rely on the sale of an asset or profits from investments.

Part and Part Mortgages aka, Part Capital and Part Interest Mortgages

A part-and-part mortgage is the rarest of them all, offering buyers the opportunity to pay off part of the interest as you go and part of the capital amount as you go.

At the end of the term, there will still be a lump sum to pay, but it will be much smaller than an interest-only mortgage.

This is ideal if you have savings or an investment that can pay off a large portion of your mortgage but not all of it.

One of the perks of part and part mortgages is that they offer lower monthly installments than a repayment mortgage, and there’s less capital to settle at the end of the mortgage term than with an interest-only mortgage.

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Interest: Variable vs Fixed – What’s the Right Choice for Your Property Purchase?

Variable Rate Mortgages

To put it simply, nothing is set in stone when it comes to variable rate mortgages – the interest rate will fluctuate depending on what’s happening within the UK economy.

There are three main categories that variable rate mortgages fall into:

  1. Tracker 

Tracker mortgages don’t have the same rate as the Bank of England but fluctuate along with it. For many, this provides peace of mind as only the economy can cause your interest rate to change.

  1. Standard variable rates

All lenders have a standard variable rate that they can influence. This may loosely follow the movements of the Bank of England’s base rate (usually set at 2 to 5 points above the base rate).

In most instances, a borrower will be offered a reduced rate for a fixed period, and then when that period is over, they will be shifted onto the standard variable rate. 

Unfortunately, while these mortgage types are often unavoidable, they’re expensive and volatile as the lender can decide when to move its rates. There is a big plus side, though.

If you plan to pay off your mortgage earlier than agreed, there’s usually no penalty for this. First-time buyers often can’t get access to standard variable rates.

  1. Discounts

Discount mortgages aren’t available to everyone, but for many, they’re attractive.

These are mortgages provided at a discounted rate from the standard variable rate, but only for a short, fixed period.

The period is usually 2 or 3 years, but some lenders offer longer options.

Discount mortgages are often advertised using industry jargon, so it’s best to make inquiries to ensure you know precisely how much you’ll be paying.

The Big Question: How to Choose Between Fixed and Variable Rates

Industry experts will tell you that there’s more to choosing a mortgage type than just looking for ones that appear to be the cheapest.

The best way to determine which option is best for you is to look at your finances and see if you’ll be able to maintain good standing on your mortgage if the interest rate hikes. 

For most, a fixed rate mortgage provides a sense of security. It gives the buyer peace of mind that they know exactly how much they will spend each month, regardless of fluctuations in interest rates.

But this can also mean losing out on a saving when the interest rate is cut or dips. 

If you can only just afford the expected installments on your mortgage, it may be advisable to fix the rate as fluctuations could put you out of pocket and over-stretch your budget in the end.

If you have a lot of additional income and can easily afford your mortgage installments with plenty to spare, you may be in a better position to think about variable rates.

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Choosing Between Incentive Periods

Mortgage providers in the UK like to keep things interesting by offering incentive periods over which time your rate is fixed or discounted.

These are not usually for the full term of your mortgage (although some lenders may offer this).

In fact, depending on the discretion of the lender, you may be able to access an incentive period between 2 and 10 years.

If you’re offered options, you may think that choosing the longest incentive term is best, but this could end up costing you unnecessary amounts in the end. 

Tips to help you decide:

  • Don’t rely on the name of the mortgage to make your decision – always check the finer details. For instance, some 2-year fixed deals may end sooner than 24 months. 
  • New mortgage deals come with arrangement/establishment fees, so avoid switching between deals and mortgage companies too often or your expected savings could be surpassed by fees.
  • Investigate the rates on longer term fixed rates as sometimes, because of industry competitiveness, they’re on par with the shorter terms. 
  • Avoid long term fixed rates if you intend to sell the property in the near future, as these mortgages may come with early settlement or similar fees that could eat into your budget.
  • Even though the monthly instalment amount may seem low, always check the final cost of your total mortgage. Longer mortgage periods mean more interest – which means a more expensive mortgage in the end. 

Tracker vs Fixed Mortgages UK Conclusion

The only person who can determine the best type of mortgage for you is you, and of course, with the help of a professional mortgage broker.

While you may have insider information about your budget and affordability, the complexities of a mortgage, how they’re calculated, and how the interest works can be misleading or overwhelming.

Consulting with a mortgage broker about your options and the financial implications attached to each is a step in the right direction.

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

If you’re earning a decent income but have a bad credit score or shaky credit history, does that exclude you from getting a new mortgage?

Getting a mortgage is a life goal for many people, but those with bad credit often worry that they’ll waste their time applying for a mortgage or will get a terrible rate/deal because their credit history is less than perfect.

According to Statista, mortgages account for a large portion of outstanding debt in the UK.

But planning with the help of a mortgage advisor can help you apply for a mortgage that won’t become a financial noose in the end.

The fact of the matter is that you may have a bad credit score but changed your financial situation since.

Even with a high income, your bad credit rating will remain for a certain period.

This leaves many people on high incomes still saddled with poor interest rates or limited options because of poor credit scores.

That said, you will still have options, but they’ll be impacted by how recent your financial issues have been and how severe your bad credit score is.

Depending on how extreme your situation is, you may need to approach a specialist lender that deals with bad credit mortgages or work on your credit score before applying for a mortgage once more.

Consulting with a mortgage advisor on bad credit good income mortgages can also help you to determine the best course of action for you.

Check Today's Best Rates >

Why a Healthy Credit Record Is Important

When applying for any sort of credit, the lender will assess your credit report to determine if you’re a suitable candidate or not.

The information found on your credit report will indicate whether or not you’re a risky candidate.

Mainstream lenders will rely heavily on your credit score when determining creditworthiness.

If you have a bad credit score but a good income, using a bad credit mortgage specialist or adverse credit lender may benefit you, as they don’t assign a credit score when assessing the viability of your mortgage application.

That doesn’t mean that adverse credit lenders won’t look at your credit score, but rather that they will consider other mitigating factors, such as your current earnings and how you currently handle your accounts.

Credit records provide potential lenders with an overview of your financial history, such as the money you’ve borrowed and how you’re repaying it, accounts you have and how they’re being managed and so on.

Your credit report will include details of your car finance, personal loans, credit cards, and store accounts.

In addition to this, your credit report will include additional details such as bankruptcy or county court judgements against you.

Are There Different Types of Credit Checks?

Lenders will carry out one of two types of credit checks: soft or hard.

If you’d like a DIP (decision in principle), the lender will carry out a soft credit check.

This helps them determine how much they could lend you based on the information in your credit report.

This includes no further checks, so cannot guarantee an approved loan.

If the lender uncovers other information on you when processing the final mortgage application, you may still receive a rejection/denial. Soft credit checks aren’t visible on your credit report.

The hard credit check is more thorough and is done at some point during the mortgage application, even if a soft credit check has been done before this.

A hard credit check will appear on your credit report, and some lenders view multiple hard credit checks as a sign of a risky borrower.

Is Credit Score the Sole Deciding Factor?

You may wonder if your credit score is the only factor that will influence the outcome of your mortgage application, and the answer is no.

Lenders will look at several things when determining if you’re a suitable borrower, with credit score being just one factor.

Other influencing factors include the following:

Your Income

Lenders will want to see how much you can afford to pay out each month, which means they’ll need to see proof of income.

If you’ve got a high income but apply for a mortgage that will exhaust all your available cash flow, you can still expect to get a negative outcome.

Applying for a mortgage that your income shows you can comfortably afford is one way to avoid possible mortgage rejection.

Check Today's Best Rates >

Your Monthly Expenses (aka, outgoings)

As important as your income is, so are your monthly expenses.

In addition to your mortgage instalment, you may have other expenses that you pay out each month, such as your vehicle instalment, insurance, daycare, household bills and services, and so on.

Lenders will compare your expenses with your income to determine the risk involved.

Source of Income

Earning sufficient income each month is one factor, but how you earn it is important, too. For instance, stability is important to lenders.

They will want to see that you can sustain your income for your contract.

If you’re employed, you can provide your payslips, or if you’re self-employed, you’ll need to provide your company’s financials along with your bank statements or latest tax returns.

History of Prior Mortgages

If you’ve had a mortgage before or currently have one, lenders will investigate to see how you handled the payments.

If your payments were on time every time, this will show on your credit report.

Any lapses in payments or bad notes on how you handle your existing or prior mortgages can work against you.

How Much You Must Earn to Get a Mortgage

There’s no set amount that any person should earn in order to qualify for a mortgage. It comes down to how much you can afford to borrow.

Lenders will consider any income amount when determining the viability of a loan application. Mainstream mortgage providers will typically provide you with between 3 and 5 times your annual income.

This is if you have good credit. If you have bad credit, you may find that lenders are only willing to offer you less, providing you with the opportunity to prove yourself.

A high income will not negate a poor credit score, but may improve your options as you can put down a higher deposit.

Check Today's Best Rates >

What is a Bad Credit Score?

There’s no specific number that determines a high or low credit score.

That’s because every credit bureau calculates their scores differently.

Some mortgage providers that deal with adverse credit borrowers won’t score you.

As such, a credit score is a health indicator of your overall finances.

It’s a good idea to get your credit report from the leading bureaus such as TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian, so you know what mortgage providers might see when they carry out a credit check on your name.

A bad credit score will limit your options, but won’t necessarily exclude you from getting a mortgage.

Unfortunately, poor credit scores may mean lower mortgage amounts are available to you, or you’re offered a higher interest rate.

Sometimes, the lender may request a higher deposit amount to secure the deal.

Reasons for Poor Credit Scores

There are many reasons why you may have a poor credit score.

Some of these include:

  • Late and missed payments on store accounts, loans, credit cards, and utility bills.
  • Going into overdraft on your credit card or bank account without having an approved overdraft facility on your account.
  • Using a large percentage of your available credit on your credit card.
  • County court judgements against you.
  • Individual voluntary arrangements that are still in progress.
  • Bankruptcy that’s been active within the past 6 years.
  • Multiple hard credit checks on your name, showing that you’ve been struggling with debt and have been seeking out more lines of credit.
  • Being linked to a person who has bad credit, such as a marital partner who you have a mortgage or loan with.
  • Incorrect information on your credit report (which can be corrected directly with the credit bureau).

How to Secure a Mortgage with Good Income but Bad Credit

There are several things you can do to secure a good deal if you have a poor credit score but a good income.

Some options include:

  • Saving up a higher deposit than the standard requested amounts.
  • Minimising your debt and outgoings by closing unnecessary accounts and paying down debt.
  • Invest in a cheaper property to reduce the amount you need to borrow.
  • Use an adverse credit mortgage provider that won’t base its decision on your credit score.
  • Settle your CCJs and IVAs to clear your credit and show that you’re making an effort to get back in good financial standing.
  • Ensure your accounts, loans, and lines of credit are paid in full and on time.
  • Use a mortgage advisor who can ensure that you’re making sound financial decisions that are best-suited to your financial situation.

Can You Get a New Mortgage with Good Income But Bad Credit? Conclusion

Having a high income doesn’t automatically qualify you for a mortgage or the best deals, especially if you have a bad credit score.

Mainstream lenders may view your poor credit as a red flag that you don’t handle credit properly.

Working with a professional mortgage advisor can help you apply with mortgage providers most likely to assist someone with poor credit.

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.

If you’re earning a decent income but have a bad credit score or shaky credit history, does that exclude you from getting a new mortgage?

Getting a mortgage is a life goal for many people, but those with bad credit often worry that they’ll waste their time applying for a mortgage or will get a terrible rate/deal because their credit history is less than perfect.

According to Statista, mortgages account for a large portion of outstanding debt in the UK.

But planning with the help of a mortgage advisor can help you apply for a mortgage that won’t become a financial noose in the end.

The fact of the matter is that you may have a bad credit score but changed your financial situation since.

Even with a high income, your bad credit rating will remain for a certain period.

This leaves many people on high incomes still saddled with poor interest rates or limited options because of poor credit scores.

That said, you will still have options, but they’ll be impacted by how recent your financial issues have been and how severe your bad credit score is.

Depending on how extreme your situation is, you may need to approach a specialist lender that deals with bad credit mortgages or work on your credit score before applying for a mortgage once more.

Consulting with a mortgage advisor on bad credit good income mortgages can also help you to determine the best course of action for you.

Check Today's Best Rates >

Why a Healthy Credit Record Is Important

When applying for any sort of credit, the lender will assess your credit report to determine if you’re a suitable candidate or not.

The information found on your credit report will indicate whether or not you’re a risky candidate.

Mainstream lenders will rely heavily on your credit score when determining creditworthiness.

If you have a bad credit score but a good income, using a bad credit mortgage specialist or adverse credit lender may benefit you, as they don’t assign a credit score when assessing the viability of your mortgage application.

That doesn’t mean that adverse credit lenders won’t look at your credit score, but rather that they will consider other mitigating factors, such as your current earnings and how you currently handle your accounts.

Credit records provide potential lenders with an overview of your financial history, such as the money you’ve borrowed and how you’re repaying it, accounts you have and how they’re being managed and so on.

Your credit report will include details of your car finance, personal loans, credit cards, and store accounts.

In addition to this, your credit report will include additional details such as bankruptcy or county court judgements against you.

Are There Different Types of Credit Checks?

Lenders will carry out one of two types of credit checks: soft or hard.

If you’d like a DIP (decision in principle), the lender will carry out a soft credit check.

This helps them determine how much they could lend you based on the information in your credit report.

This includes no further checks, so cannot guarantee an approved loan.

If the lender uncovers other information on you when processing the final mortgage application, you may still receive a rejection/denial. Soft credit checks aren’t visible on your credit report.

The hard credit check is more thorough and is done at some point during the mortgage application, even if a soft credit check has been done before this.

A hard credit check will appear on your credit report, and some lenders view multiple hard credit checks as a sign of a risky borrower.

Is Credit Score the Sole Deciding Factor?

You may wonder if your credit score is the only factor that will influence the outcome of your mortgage application, and the answer is no.

Lenders will look at several things when determining if you’re a suitable borrower, with credit score being just one factor.

Other influencing factors include the following:

Your Income

Lenders will want to see how much you can afford to pay out each month, which means they’ll need to see proof of income.

If you’ve got a high income but apply for a mortgage that will exhaust all your available cash flow, you can still expect to get a negative outcome.

Applying for a mortgage that your income shows you can comfortably afford is one way to avoid possible mortgage rejection.

Check Today's Best Rates >

Your Monthly Expenses (aka, outgoings)

As important as your income is, so are your monthly expenses.

In addition to your mortgage instalment, you may have other expenses that you pay out each month, such as your vehicle instalment, insurance, daycare, household bills and services, and so on.

Lenders will compare your expenses with your income to determine the risk involved.

Source of Income

Earning sufficient income each month is one factor, but how you earn it is important, too. For instance, stability is important to lenders.

They will want to see that you can sustain your income for your contract.

If you’re employed, you can provide your payslips, or if you’re self-employed, you’ll need to provide your company’s financials along with your bank statements or latest tax returns.

History of Prior Mortgages

If you’ve had a mortgage before or currently have one, lenders will investigate to see how you handled the payments.

If your payments were on time every time, this will show on your credit report.

Any lapses in payments or bad notes on how you handle your existing or prior mortgages can work against you.

How Much You Must Earn to Get a Mortgage

There’s no set amount that any person should earn in order to qualify for a mortgage. It comes down to how much you can afford to borrow.

Lenders will consider any income amount when determining the viability of a loan application. Mainstream mortgage providers will typically provide you with between 3 and 5 times your annual income.

This is if you have good credit. If you have bad credit, you may find that lenders are only willing to offer you less, providing you with the opportunity to prove yourself.

A high income will not negate a poor credit score, but may improve your options as you can put down a higher deposit.

Check Today's Best Rates >

What is a Bad Credit Score?

There’s no specific number that determines a high or low credit score.

That’s because every credit bureau calculates their scores differently.

Some mortgage providers that deal with adverse credit borrowers won’t score you.

As such, a credit score is a health indicator of your overall finances.

It’s a good idea to get your credit report from the leading bureaus such as TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian, so you know what mortgage providers might see when they carry out a credit check on your name.

A bad credit score will limit your options, but won’t necessarily exclude you from getting a mortgage.

Unfortunately, poor credit scores may mean lower mortgage amounts are available to you, or you’re offered a higher interest rate.

Sometimes, the lender may request a higher deposit amount to secure the deal.

Reasons for Poor Credit Scores

There are many reasons why you may have a poor credit score.

Some of these include:

  • Late and missed payments on store accounts, loans, credit cards, and utility bills.
  • Going into overdraft on your credit card or bank account without having an approved overdraft facility on your account.
  • Using a large percentage of your available credit on your credit card.
  • County court judgements against you.
  • Individual voluntary arrangements that are still in progress.
  • Bankruptcy that’s been active within the past 6 years.
  • Multiple hard credit checks on your name, showing that you’ve been struggling with debt and have been seeking out more lines of credit.
  • Being linked to a person who has bad credit, such as a marital partner who you have a mortgage or loan with.
  • Incorrect information on your credit report (which can be corrected directly with the credit bureau).

How to Secure a Mortgage with Good Income but Bad Credit

There are several things you can do to secure a good deal if you have a poor credit score but a good income.

Some options include:

  • Saving up a higher deposit than the standard requested amounts.
  • Minimising your debt and outgoings by closing unnecessary accounts and paying down debt.
  • Invest in a cheaper property to reduce the amount you need to borrow.
  • Use an adverse credit mortgage provider that won’t base its decision on your credit score.
  • Settle your CCJs and IVAs to clear your credit and show that you’re making an effort to get back in good financial standing.
  • Ensure your accounts, loans, and lines of credit are paid in full and on time.
  • Use a mortgage advisor who can ensure that you’re making sound financial decisions that are best-suited to your financial situation.

Can You Get a New Mortgage with Good Income But Bad Credit? Conclusion

Having a high income doesn’t automatically qualify you for a mortgage or the best deals, especially if you have a bad credit score.

Mainstream lenders may view your poor credit as a red flag that you don’t handle credit properly.

Working with a professional mortgage advisor can help you apply with mortgage providers most likely to assist someone with poor credit.

Call us today on 01925 906 210 or contact us to speak to one of our friendly advisors.