GUIDES
Mortgage With
No Credit History - GoMortgage®
No credit history? That doesn’t mean no mortgage.
You might think that having no credit history means you’re stuck, but that’s not true. At GoMortgage, we specialise in cases where traditional lenders say “Sorry, we can’t tell your story.” We believe everyone deserves access to home-ownership, and we’ll work with you to get it done—whether you’re new to credit, returning to the UK, or simply haven’t used credit before.
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Bad Credit Mortgages - Mortgage With No Credit History
What does "no credit history" really mean?
Having no credit history means your profile doesn’t show the typical indicators lenders like: credit cards, loans, mobile contracts, utilities in your name, or recent repayments. Without this “track record” you’re seen as higher risk.
So yes, you can do it – but you’ll need the right approach and experts who know the routes.
Why is it harder for lenders?
Because lenders use credit history as a way to judge how well you manage money:
- Credit cards, loans, utilities – all help build a profile.
- Without this, lenders don’t have data showing you’ll keep up with the repayments.
Being younger, new to the UK, or having lived abroad often means your UK credit file is “thin”.
That means fewer lenders, higher deposit/equity, or higher rates may apply.
Access Your Credit Report
Knowing exactly what lenders see is the first step. Checkmyfile lets you view your full credit picture across all three UK agencies in one place, helping you spot issues, track progress, and avoid surprises before you apply.
Good-news: You can get a mortgage with no credit history
Here’s the deal: if we present your application the right way, we’ll find lenders who judge the whole picture, not just your credit file. The stronger your other factors (income, deposit, employment, savings), the better the chance.
What lenders will look for (when you have no credit history)
- A stable income and employment history.
- A clean recent track record of payments for whatever is on your file (e.g., rent, utilities).
- Evidence you’re on the electoral roll at your current address.
- Proof you’ve been living in the UK (or have a UK credit file) for a suitable time.
- A sensible deposit or equity in the property.
- Lots of documentation, because the credit file gives less evidence.
These “better-than-average” strengths help compensate for the lack of credit data.
Typical deposit, rates & equity for no credit history cases
- Higher deposit or lower loan-to-value (LTV): maybe starting from 10–15% deposit (or more) depending on other strengths.
- Higher interest rates than prime borrowers.
- More review and underwriting of your full financial picture.
We’ll help locate the lender with the most flexible criteria for your case.
How GoMortgage tackles “no credit history” cases
Initial call and assessment – We find out your full story and identify why your credit file is thin.
Document collection and profile building – We gather income proofs, bank statements, address history, rent history, and more.
Build your file – We highlight strengths (large deposit, stable income, no adverse credit) and prepare your application.
Identify matching lenders – Our whole-of-market access includes specialist lenders who accept thin-file cases.
Apply and monitor – We complete a Decision in Principle (DIP) followed by the full application, keeping you updated throughout.
Aftercare and improvement – Once approved, we plan your next steps (lower rate, better terms) as your credit profile grows.
FAQ - Getting a mortgage with no credit history
Can I get a mortgage if I’ve never had a credit card or loan?
Yes. But you will need to show other indicators of financial responsibility, such as income, deposit, and a stable living situation.
How long before I build a credit history?
It varies. Some lenders may look more favourably once you have 3–6 months of consistent payments in your name (such as rent or utilities). Others may consider you sooner if your overall profile is strong.
Am I guaranteed higher rates?
Not guaranteed, but you will likely start with less favourable terms than prime applicants. Our aim is to help you secure the mortgage now, then move you to better terms later.
Should I wait until I have some credit history?
Maybe. If you have strong income, deposit, and stability, we can approach lenders now. If your profile is weaker, building some credit activity first may be better. We will advise honestly based on your situation.
Ready to get started?
If your credit file is empty or thin and you’re thinking a mortgage isn’t possible—think again. Call the GoMortgage team on 01253 935050 or begin by pulling your full multi-agency credit report here: Click For Free Trial.
We’ll map your route onto the ladder.
GoMortgage® – Real people. Real plans. Real possibilities.
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Author: Chris Days Head of Content
- 5 Mins
- Updated: Nov 5 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a repossession stay on my credit file forever?
No. It typically remains for up to six years from the first missed payment that led to the repossession. Some lenders may still ask whether you have ever been repossessed, even after it has dropped off your file.
Will I be stuck with really bad rates forever?
Not necessarily. Your initial rate may be higher, but with time, good financial behaviour and planned remortgaging, your rate can improve.
What if there is a shortfall and I still owe money after the sale?
Outstanding debt after a repossession can complicate things. Lenders will check whether you are still repaying that debt and how it affects affordability. It may also affect how much equity you need to present.
Can I apply sooner if I’ve had a repossession?
Potentially, yes, especially if your situation since the repossession is strong (stable income, clean recent credit, larger deposit). Each lender has different waiting rules, and we will advise you on the right timing.
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