Self-Employed Mortgages
Flexible lending for sole traders, partners, and company directors — even with fluctuating income or limited accounts.
We arrange mortgages for entrepreneurs, freelancers and business owners with non-standard income. If you reinvest profits or take a low salary/dividends, we’ll target lenders who consider full company performance, not just what you draw.
How We Help
- Options for newer self-employed (not always 3 years accounts needed).
- In some cases, we can use current-year projections (accountant letter) where appropriate.
- We understand ltd company accounts and how to maximise borrowing legitimately.
Ways Lenders Assess Income
- Sole trader net profit (latest year or average).
- Directors: salary + dividends.
- Ltd company: profit before corporation tax / retained profits (selected lenders).
- Allowances shown in accounts (e.g., pension or car allowances) may be considered.
What Lenders Look For
- Trading history and sustainability of income.
- Credit conduct and deposit.
- Business sector and pipeline (where relevant).
Typical Documents
- SA302s & tax year overviews (usually 2 years, sometimes 1).
- Finalised accounts (ltd company/partnership).
- Business & personal bank statements (3–6 months).
- Accountant’s letter and projections (where applicable).
FAQs
How long do I need to be self-employed to get a mortgage?
Many lenders prefer at least two years of trading history, but some will consider 12 months — or less with strong evidence of sustainable income or prior industry experience.
Can I get a mortgage with only one year’s accounts?
Yes. Several lenders accept one year’s accounts, especially if the business is growing or you have stable work history. We place cases with lenders that regularly assess 1-year trading.
What income do lenders use for self-employed applicants?
Sole traders: Lenders typically assess your net profit.
Company directors: Lenders usually look at your salary plus dividends.
Some specialist lenders may also take into account retained profits or your company’s overall financial performance.
If you retain profits within your limited company rather than withdrawing large dividends, we can approach lenders who consider retained profits when assessing affordability.
Can I remortgage while self-employed?
Yes — whether you want a better rate or to release equity. We’ll assess options based on your latest accounts, SA302s and bank statements.
How much deposit do I need as self-employed?
From 5% is sometimes possible, though 10%+ typically unlocks better rates and more lenders. Credit profile and income stability will influence options.
What documents are usually required?
Commonly SA302s/tax year overviews, finalised accounts, personal/business bank statements (3–6 months) and, where helpful, an accountant’s letter with projections.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.