Illustrative example. This story is a composite based on real adviser experience with cases of this type. Names, locations and specific figures have been changed or generalised — it does not represent a single identifiable client. General lender criteria referenced are indicative only and change frequently. For a case tailored to your own circumstances, speak to an adviser.
Emma S.
After a difficult divorce, Emma's credit wasn't great. The Mortgage Genie found a specialist lender who understood her situation — and she's now in her own home.
"After a divorce, my credit wasn't great and I thought no one would give me a mortgage. The Mortgage Genie found a specialist lender who understood my situation. I'm now in my own home and couldn't be happier."
— Emma S., Bristol
£220,000
Property Price
£44,000
Deposit
5.49%
Rate Secured
6 Weeks
Time to Keys
The Situation
Emma had recently finalised her divorce and needed to find a home for herself and her daughter. She had a deposit from her share of the marital home but her credit score had taken a hit — a missed credit card payment during the separation and a defaulted joint account she didn't know about.
The Challenge
Two high street banks had already turned Emma down, which left her feeling deflated and worried she'd never own a home again. She wasn't sure which lenders would consider her application given her credit history, and she was anxious about being judged.
How We Helped
Her The Mortgage Genie advisor was understanding and non-judgemental from the first call. They reviewed Emma's credit file in detail, identified exactly which adverse markers were on record, and matched her to a specialist lender who manually underwrites applications and considers the circumstances behind credit issues. The rate was slightly higher than mainstream but still affordable.
The Outcome
Emma was approved within 3 weeks and completed on a lovely 2-bedroom house in Bedminster, Bristol. Her monthly payments fit comfortably within her budget. Her advisor also explained that in 2 years, once the adverse credit drops off, she could remortgage to a lower rate — and they'd help her do that too, for free.
Their Journey Timeline
Enquiry Submitted
Emma filled in the form nervously, expecting to be turned away again.
Credit Review
Advisor reviewed her full credit file and explained exactly where she stood.
Specialist Lender Found
Matched to a lender experienced with post-divorce credit situations.
Approval
Mortgage approved in principle within 48 hours.
Completion
Keys in hand within 6 weeks. A fresh start for Emma and her daughter.
"I honestly thought I'd never get a mortgage after my divorce. I'd been turned down twice and was starting to lose hope. The Mortgage Genie didn't judge me — they just listened, understood my situation, and found a lender that said yes. I cried when I got the call. My advisor even said they'll help me remortgage to a cheaper rate in a couple of years when my credit improves. I'll never use anyone else."
Emma S. — Bristol
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