Clear answers before you take the next step

In many cases there are lenders who can consider applications where there are previous defaults or CCJs. What may be possible depends on how many there are, the amounts involved, how recent they are and whether they are satisfied. We can review your situation and, where appropriate, introduce you to a regulated adviser who can talk through realistic options.

Not always. Reducing or clearing balances can improve affordability, but using all of your savings to clear debt can leave you short on deposit or fees. The right approach depends on your full circumstances and should be discussed with a regulated adviser before making decisions.

It may be possible, but it is very lender-specific. Key points include whether the DMP is active or finished, how long ago it completed, whether payments were maintained on time, and what your credit file looks like now.

Most lenders look at tax documents such as SA302s and tax year overviews. Sole traders are usually assessed on net profit, while limited company directors are often assessed on salary plus dividends. Some lenders may also consider retained profit, one year’s accounts or contractor day-rates.

Many lenders will count at least part of variable pay, but the proportion can vary depending on how regular it is and what evidence is available. Payslips, P60s and a consistent track record can all help an adviser assess which lenders may be more suitable.

Timelines vary by lender and complexity. As a broad guide, pre-assessment can often happen within a day or so of receiving your information, a Decision in Principle may take 24 to 48 hours once documents are supplied, and a full application to offer can take several weeks.

It depends on the lender. Some use a soft search, while others use a hard search. A regulated adviser should explain how a lender records its checks before anything is submitted.

Standard items usually include proof of ID, proof of address, recent bank statements, payslips or self-employed evidence, and details of your deposit source. For adverse credit cases, a full credit report is very useful. You can also find a handy list in our mortgage guides.

Typical costs can include lender product fees, valuation or survey fees, legal costs, any broker fee agreed with the adviser, and property tax where applicable. The adviser will confirm the exact figures for any product they recommend.

Neither option is better for everyone. Fixed rates provide payment certainty for a set period, while tracker and variable products can move up or down. The right choice depends on your risk appetite, plans and wider circumstances.

It is usually better to pause and understand why you were declined before making further applications. Multiple hard searches and quick re-applications can make things harder. A more targeted approach is often more sensible.

Specialist lenders often ask for a larger deposit when payment issues are recent or more severe. The amount can depend on when the problems happened, whether they are now back on track, affordability and the rest of the application.

Yes. We support clients across the UK using phone, email, video calls and secure document upload. The adviser we introduce you to will confirm how they prefer to communicate and handle documents.