You can get a mortgage if you are self-employed, but lenders will ask for more proof of income. Most will look at your earnings over the last two to three years, along with bank statements and tax documents. This guide explains how self-employed mortgages work, what lenders look for, and how to improve your chances of approval.
Dec 15, 2025
Yes. Being self-employed does not stop you getting a mortgage.
There is no special product called a “self-employed mortgage”. You apply for the same mortgages as employed borrowers. The difference is how lenders check your income.
If you can show that your income is reliable and sustainable, many lenders will consider you.
Most lenders class you as self-employed if you own 20 to 25 percent or more of a business that provides your main income.
This usually includes:
Agency workers and umbrella company workers are often treated as employed, but their income can still be assessed more carefully due to variability.
If you are unsure how your income will be classed, this is where early advice matters.
Lenders are not trying to make things difficult. They are trying to manage risk.
Self-employed income can:
Because of this, lenders focus less on job title and more on income patterns and stability.
Most lenders will ask for:
Providing organised, clear paperwork early makes a big difference.
This is one of the most important parts.
Lenders usually take average net profit over the last two or three years.
Lenders may use:
Some specialist lenders will also consider retained profits.
Some lenders average earnings over recent years. Others may annualise a day rate if contracts are consistent.
If your most recent year is lower than average, some lenders will use the lower figure. Others may be more flexible if income is trending up.
Most lenders lend around 4 to 4.5 times your assessed income, though some may go higher in the right circumstances.
What affects the amount:
You can use a mortgage calculator to get a rough idea, but a proper assessment will always be more accurate.
Most lenders prefer two to three years of trading history.
However:
This is one area where lender choice matters more than people realise.
“Self-employed mortgages are more expensive”
False. Rates depend on risk, not employment type.
“You need three full years of accounts”
Not always. Some lenders accept less.
“You cannot get a high loan-to-value mortgage”
Also false. Options exist, even at higher LTVs, if affordability stacks up.
For many self-employed borrowers, yes.
A broker can:
This is especially useful if your income is complex or not consistent year to year.
These steps make a real difference:
Most importantly, do not apply blind. Rejected applications can make things harder later.
How long does it take to get a mortgage offer?
Usually a few weeks, but complex income can take longer.
Can I get a mortgage if my latest year is lower than average?
Possibly. Some lenders will still consider you.
Does IR35 affect mortgage applications?
It can, depending on how income is structured and proven.
Can I remortgage if I am self-employed?
Yes. In many cases, remortgaging is easier than buying.
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Mortgage Brokers Near Me LTD is an Appointed Representative of The Right Mortgage LTD which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The guidance and/or information contained within this website is subject to the UK regulatory regime and is therefore targeted at consumers based in the UK. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate Will Writing and some forms of Trusts and Buy to Lets. A fee may be charged for mortgage advice. The exact amount will depend on your circumstances.
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