Securing a Mortgage as a Self-Employed Individual.
Obtaining a mortgage as a self-employed person in Lytham St Annes can be more complex compared to traditional employees, but with careful preparation and the right guidance, it’s entirely achievable. Here’s a brief overview of what you need to know:
Income Documentation: Unlike salaried employees, self-employed applicants need to provide more detailed income documentation. Typically, lenders require at least two years’ worth of tax returns and business accounts to verify your earnings. These documents are crucial in demonstrating your ability to repay the mortgage. In some cases, lenders may also ask for additional information, such as a projection of future income, depending on your trading history and profession.
Lender Criteria: Lenders often evaluate your average income over the past two to three years, with a strong focus on the stability of your earnings. Whether you’re a freelancer, contractor, or running a small business, your type of self-employment can influence how lenders view your application. Consistent and predictable income streams are generally viewed more favourably, though some lenders are more flexible when assessing irregular or seasonal earnings.
Deposit and Interest Rates: Due to the perceived risk associated with fluctuating income, self-employed applicants may be asked to provide a larger deposit, typically around 10-20% of the property’s value. However, it’s still possible to find competitive interest rates, especially if your financial records demonstrate stable earnings and solid savings. Having a larger deposit can also improve your chances of securing a more favourable mortgage deal.
Mortgage Options: As a self-employed individual, you’ll have access to the same range of mortgage products as other buyers, including fixed-rate and variable-rate mortgages. The right mortgage for you will depend on your financial situation and long-term goals. A fixed-rate mortgage may offer peace of mind with consistent payments, while a variable-rate mortgage could provide more flexibility if you’re comfortable with potential changes in your monthly outgoings.
Challenges and Flexibility: Proving consistent income can be one of the biggest challenges for self-employed applicants, particularly if you have irregular earnings. However, certain lenders specialise in self-employed mortgages and offer more flexible criteria. These lenders may be more willing to look at your overall financial profile, rather than relying solely on past income figures. Working with an experienced mortgage broker can be especially helpful in finding these lenders and ensuring your application is presented in the best possible way.
How GoMortgage Can Help: At GoMortgage, we understand the unique challenges self-employed individuals face when trying to secure a mortgage. Our expert team is well-versed in navigating the specific requirements of self-employed applicants and will guide you every step of the way. We’ll help you organise your financial documents, find flexible lenders, and ensure you secure the best mortgage deal tailored to your circumstances.
Contact us today to begin your journey towards homeownership and let us help you find the perfect mortgage solution for your self-employed needs.