Self-Employed Mortgage Calculator
Getting a mortgage when you’re self-employed is a little more complex than usual. To help you out, we’ve developed this free and easy-to-use calculator. Simply enter your details below to receive an estimate of how much you could borrow today.
This information is a guide only and should not be relied on as a recommendation or advice that any particular mortgage is suitable for you. All mortgages are subject to the applicant(s) meeting the eligibility criteria of the specific lender. You should make an appointment to receive mortgage advice which will based on your needs and circumstances.
Questions
How much can I borrow if I’m self-employed?
Mortgage lenders usually assess your eligibility based on an average of your self-employed earnings from the past three years. This calculation serves as the foundation for determining the maximum loan amount you can secure.
After establishing this figure, lenders apply their standard affordability criteria, often using a multiple of your annual income. Most lenders adhere to an income multiple ranging from 4 to 4.5 times your average earnings, though some may extend this multiple to 5 times.
How will lenders assess my income if I’m self-employed?
If you’re self-employed, then you will be required to provide proof of your income. The documentation requested by your mortgage lender will be based on the type of self-employment you have. For instance:
Sole Trader or Partnership
If you’re registered as working on a sole trader or partnership basis, then lenders will want to see the average net profit in your trading history, as arranged by a chartered accountant. In addition to, or alongside your accounts, some lenders may also ask for your SA302 tax calculations from HMRC.
Limited Company Director
The income of limited company directors is likewise typically evaluated using complete trading accounts or SA302 documents. Yet, the difference is that lenders might also consider dividends on top of a salary, or a share in the company’s retained profits.
Contractor
Contractors, once again, are required to provide their accounts and/or SA302 calculations from HMRC. However, it is customary for an income figure to be derived from their day rate and shifts as outlined in their current contract.
Since contract work may involve intermittent periods without income, aspects such as the duration of the contract, your experience, and the overall demand for work in your industry will be taken into account as well.
How long do I have to have been self-employed to get a mortgage?
While workers in full-time employment can get a mortgage with three months’ worth of payslips, self-employed individuals have to have at least one years’ worth of accounts or two years’ worth of accounts. Having said this, there are specialist lenders who can get you a mortgage when you have no accounts.
How much deposit will I need if I’m self-employed?
The majority of mortgage lenders will ask you for a deposit of at least 10% of the property’s value. Although, if you have an excellent credit score, then you could secure a mortgage with a 5% deposit. This is ultimately determined by how flexible your lender’s eligibility criteria is.
Speak to a specialist mortgage broker
Getting approval for a mortgage when you’re self-employed is all about finding a suitable lender. You greatly increase the chance of this happening by having a specialist mortgage broker at hand to assess your case and help you navigate the market. Otherwise, you could be rejected and damage your credit report.
Get in touch with our self-employed mortgage experts today by calling 01915809890 and benefit from our pool of specialist lenders who can cater to your particular requirements, whether you’re a sole trader, partner, company director, or contractor.