How to Get a Mortgage with an IVA: Expert Guide to Your Options
Having an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) on your credit file can make applying for a mortgage feel overwhelming. Many people are told they’ll never be able to buy a home — or that they must wait until the IVA disappears completely.
The reality is more encouraging. Getting a mortgage with an IVA is possible, but it depends on timing, preparation, and choosing lenders who understand post-IVA risk.
At Mortgage Bridge, helping clients secure mortgages during or after an IVA is one of our core specialisms. This guide explains how lenders really assess IVAs, when mortgage approval becomes realistic, and how to improve your chances.
What Is an IVA and Why Does It Matter to Lenders?
An IVA is a formal agreement to repay part of your unsecured debt over a fixed period, usually several years. It is classed as a form of insolvency, which means lenders treat it more seriously than missed payments or defaults.
From a lender’s perspective, an IVA raises concerns about:
- Past affordability problems
- Risk of future financial pressure
- Stability of income and spending
However, lenders also recognise that an IVA is often a structured recovery process, not reckless borrowing.
Can You Get a Mortgage While in an IVA?
In most cases, mortgage options during an active IVA are extremely limited.
This is because:
- IVAs indicate little or no spare income
- Credit availability is restricted
- Creditor consent may be required
In rare circumstances, a mortgage may be possible if:
- The IVA is near completion
- There is strong affordability
- A large deposit is available
However, most successful applications happen after the IVA has been completed.
Can You Get a Mortgage After an IVA?
Yes — this is where realistic options begin to open up.
Many lenders will consider applications after an IVA has been completed, depending on:
- How long ago it was completed
- Credit behaviour since completion
- Deposit size
- Overall affordability
The fact that an IVA was completed successfully is often viewed more positively than one that failed.
How Long After an IVA Can You Get a Mortgage?
There is no single waiting period, but typical patterns include:
- Immediately after completion: Very limited options, usually specialist lenders with higher deposits
- Several years after completion: More lender choice if credit behaviour is clean
- Once the IVA drops off your credit file: Wider access to mainstream lenders
Time alone doesn’t solve everything — what matters most is how you’ve managed your finances since.
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How Do Lenders Assess Mortgage Applications After an IVA?
Lenders focus on the recovery period after the IVA.
Credit Behaviour Since the IVA
Clean, consistent payment history after completion is critical. Any new missed payments can significantly reduce options.
Affordability
Lenders want clear evidence that mortgage payments are comfortably affordable now — not just technically affordable.
Deposit Strength
A larger deposit helps offset the perceived risk of past insolvency.
Stability
Stable income, consistent employment, and sensible bank statements all work strongly in your favour.
How Much Deposit Do You Need with an IVA?
Deposit requirements are usually higher than standard mortgages.
Typical expectations may include:
- 15–20% deposit for completed IVAs
- Higher deposits where completion was recent
A stronger deposit can:
- Improve approval chances
- Open up more lender options
- Reduce interest rates over time
Will Mortgage Rates Be Higher After an IVA?
Often, yes — at least initially.
Specialist lenders may charge higher rates to reflect increased risk. However, many borrowers:
- Start with a specialist mortgage
- Rebuild their credit
- Remortgage later onto better rates
An IVA-friendly mortgage is often a stepping stone, not a permanent position.
Can You Get a Mortgage with an IVA and Other Credit Issues?
Possibly — but lender choice becomes even more important.
If you also have:
- Missed payments after the IVA
- Defaults or arrears
Lenders will assess the overall pattern, not just the IVA itself. Clean behaviour after completion becomes even more critical.
Common Myths About IVAs and Mortgages
“You can never get a mortgage after an IVA.”
False — many people do.
“You must wait until it disappears from your credit file.”
Not always — approval can be possible sooner.
“All lenders treat IVAs the same way.”
Incorrect — criteria vary widely.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Mortgage with an IVA
If you’re aiming for a mortgage after an IVA:
- Keep all payments up to date
- Avoid new credit problems
- Reduce existing debts
- Save the strongest deposit possible
- Keep bank statements clean and consistent
- Get advice before applying
Preparation matters more than rushing.
How Mortgage Bridge Helps Clients with IVAs
This is an area where specialist guidance is essential.
At Mortgage Bridge, we:
- Review your credit file line by line
- Assess lender appetite before any application
- Advise on timing and deposit strategy
- Match you with IVA-friendly lenders
- Structure applications to reduce decline risk
We’re here to help you move forward — not relive past setbacks.
Key Takeaways
- A mortgage with an IVA is possible in the right circumstances
- Options are usually better after completion
- Deposit size plays a major role
- Clean credit behaviour after the IVA is critical
- Specialist lenders offer realistic solutions
Summary
Getting a mortgage with an IVA can feel daunting, but it is often achievable with the right approach. Lenders focus less on the fact that an IVA happened and more on what has changed since — including affordability, stability, and responsible financial behaviour.
With realistic expectations, a suitable deposit, and access to lenders experienced in post-IVA cases, many borrowers successfully secure mortgages and move forward. Understanding lender criteria and seeking expert guidance can make the difference between repeated rejections and a successful outcome.
This guide provides general information only, personalised recommendations must come from a regulated mortgage advisor
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Important information: Mortgage Bridge provides information only and acts as a mortgage introducer. We do not provide mortgage advice or make lender recommendations. We can introduce you to an FCA-regulated mortgage adviser who can provide personalised mortgage advice.