Your credit history is part of your story. Not necessarily the end of it.

But the circumstances behind your credit history matter, and different lenders may take different approaches.

I'll help you understand what needs to be considered and investigate mortgage options that may fit your position today.

What happened, when it happened and where you are now.

Two people can have the same type of credit issue and face very different mortgage options.

The amount involved, how recently it occurred, whether it has been resolved and your financial position since can all influence a lender's assessment.

That's why I don't start with a credit score alone.

I want to understand the events behind it.

What could affect your mortgage options?

MISSED PAYMENTS

When they occurred, how frequently and whether the accounts are now up to date.

DEFAULTS

The amounts involved, registration dates, account types and whether they have been satisfied.

COUNTY COURT JUDGMENTS

The value, registration date, circumstances and current status.

DEBT ARRANGEMENTS

Any previous or ongoing arrangements with creditors, including debt management plans or insolvency arrangements.

YOUR CURRENT POSITION

Income, deposit, existing commitments and how you've managed your finances since the difficulties occurred.

Self-employed and had credit problems?

Read more about self-employed mortgage advice. If you’re buying your first home or reviewing an existing mortgage, you can also see what the process involves.

When your income is self-employed and your credit history is less straightforward, both sides of the application need careful consideration.

Different lenders may assess your trading history, profits or company income differently, alongside their own adverse-credit criteria.

I'll look at how you earn, what evidence is available and the circumstances behind the credit issues before considering possible lending routes.

EXPLORE SELF-EMPLOYED MORTGAGES →

Understanding your credit report

The score displayed by a credit-reporting app isn't the same as a lender's mortgage decision.

Lenders use their own criteria, credit information and affordability assessments.

Reviewing the underlying credit report can help establish exactly what's recorded and whether anything needs investigating before an application.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a mortgage with a default?

Potentially. Lenders may consider the date, amount, type and satisfaction status of a default, alongside your wider circumstances. Eligibility varies, so the details need checking.

Can I get a mortgage with a CCJ?

It may be possible, depending on the lender and the circumstances. The judgment's age, amount and whether it has been satisfied can be relevant.

How long do credit problems affect mortgage applications?

Different credit events can remain on credit reports for a number of years, and lenders may apply different rules to historic issues. The impact is not necessarily the same throughout that period.

Can I remortgage with adverse credit?

Potentially. Your existing lender may offer a product transfer, while remortgaging elsewhere may involve a new credit and affordability assessment. We'll investigate the available options before deciding on the next step.

Will applying for a mortgage damage my credit score?

A mortgage application may involve a hard credit search, depending on the lender and stage of application. It's important to establish the lender's process and investigate criteria before submitting unnecessary applications.

Can I get a mortgage after bankruptcy or an IVA?

Some lenders may consider applicants following insolvency, subject to specific conditions and the time elapsed. These cases require careful assessment of the current legal and financial position, credit history and lender criteria.

A complicated credit history deserves a closer look.

Tell me what's happened, and we'll establish which options are worth investigating.