Freelancer Mortgages

It’s a mortgage myth that you must have a 9-to-5 job and a fixed salary to buy your own home. Whether you're a graphic designer, developer, writer, or consultant, being your own boss shouldn’t stand in the way of homeownership. 

With the right paperwork, a stable income history, and a bit of expert guidance, freelancers can secure competitive mortgage deals across a range of lenders.

Can You Get a Mortgage as a Freelancer? 

Yes, it’s possible. Being a freelancer doesn’t put you on the sidelines—it just means proving your income a bit differently than if you were employed with regular payslips. Lenders are mostly interested in the consistency and reliability of your earnings, not HOW you earn them.

Most lenders will ask for evidence of a trading history dating back two years, with certified accounts and/or tax returns, but some are open to one year if you’ve got a solid track record in your field. 

With the right help from an experienced mortgage broker (like us!), you’ll find plenty of lenders who understand how freelance life works.

How Much Can You Borrow? 

For freelancers, mortgage lenders typically calculate what you can borrow based on your average annual pre-tax income over the last two or three years. They’ll look closely at your:

• SA302 forms or tax year overviews from HMRC

• Finalised accounts signed off by a qualified accountant

• Bank statements to verify regular income and expenses

If your income varies year to year, lenders will usually take the average or sometimes the lowest year as a conservative measure. If your profits are increasing year on year, some lenders may be willing to base calculations on the most recent year.

How Will It Affect Your Mortgage Application? 

As a freelancer, the biggest difference in your application is how your income is verified. Unlike salaried employees, you’ll need to provide more documentation to show you’re a reliable borrower.

You won’t be penalised for being your own boss, but it might mean a slightly longer approval process and a closer scrutiny of your finances. Keep in mind:

• You may need to explain gaps in income or irregular work periods. 

• If you work through a limited company, lenders may assess both your salary and any dividends you take. 

• Those using an umbrella company should clarify to lenders how they’re paid. 

It’s not about presenting a perfect case, but more about proving your income is consistent and will be sustainable throughout the mortgage term. 

Which Mortgage Lenders Accept Freelancers? 

More than you might think. Most mortgage lenders - either on the high street or specialist - will consider freelance applicants. The key is finding those lenders that have a better understanding of the various ups and downs of self-employed life. 

Mortgage lending criteria will vary from lender to lender, so having a wide selection to choose from doesn’t necessarily make it any easier. This is where a mortgage broker can make a huge difference, saving you a lot of time and effort by identifying lenders most likely to accept your application.

Do Freelancers Need a Bigger Deposit? 

No, not necessarily, but the more you have, the more it can help your application. Most lenders require a minimum deposit of 5–10%, depending on your credit history and overall financial profile. However, putting down a larger deposit can: 

• Increase your chances of approval

• Unlock better mortgage rates

• Reduce your monthly repayments

How Can You Boost Your Chances? 

There are a few smart moves you can make to strengthen your mortgage application if you're a freelancer; the key ones would be:

• Keep accurate financial records and have them reviewed by an accountant

• Build up a strong credit history and check your credit report before applying

• Save for a larger deposit

• Minimise debts and avoid new credit applications before applying

• Apply for a mortgage in principle

• Work with a broker who specialises in self-employed mortgages

The more you can prove that your income is stable and reliable, the more likely lenders will say yes.

What Else Could Affect Your Chances? 

Beyond your income and employment status as a freelancer, mortgage lenders will assess your overall financial picture, including:

• Your credit score and history of managing debt

• Current financial commitments, such as loans or credit cards

• Age, especially if approaching retirement

• Property type (some properties are seen as a higher risk than others)

Working as a freelancer is just one piece of the puzzle. Presenting a well-rounded, financially responsible profile is the key to getting approved, and it can make all the difference.