Category: Adverse Credit

  • Near Prime Mortgage Demand Grows in the UK Mortgage Market

    Near Prime Mortgage Demand Grows in the UK Mortgage Market

    Demand for near prime mortgages is on the rise, with 81% of brokers reporting an increase in clients with adverse credit or those who have failed traditional credit assessments over the past year. This trend, although slightly down from 93% in December, highlights a significant shift in the mortgage market as more borrowers seek alternatives amid rising interest rates and economic uncertainty.

    TL;DR: 81% of brokers see increased demand for near prime mortgages, indicating a growing number of borrowers with adverse credit are seeking options; this trend impacts first-time buyers and existing homeowners alike.

    What is Driving the Increase in Near Prime Mortgages?

    Richard Harrison, head of mortgages at Atom Bank, suggests that the surge in near prime demand is influenced by both first-time buyers entering the housing market and existing homeowners transitioning off fixed-rate deals. These borrowers are now facing unexpectedly high rates due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East.

    How Are Lenders Responding to Near Prime Demand?

    Industry experts emphasize the importance for lenders to adapt to the growing trend of near prime lending. David Hollingworth, associate director at London & Country, notes that it is essential for lenders to understand the unique needs of near prime borrowers, as frustrations arise over the current categorization of these mortgages.

    What This Means for Borrowers in the Mortgage Market

    For borrowers, the increase in near prime mortgage options could provide much-needed access to financing, especially for those with less-than-perfect credit histories. Brokers play a vital role in guiding clients through these options, ensuring they are aware of the evolving market in the mortgage market. As demand grows, borrowers should stay informed about potential changes in lending criteria and available products.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is a near prime mortgage?

    A near prime mortgage is designed for borrowers with a credit score that is below the prime threshold but above subprime levels, typically offering more flexible lending criteria.

    Who benefits from near prime mortgages?

    First-time buyers and existing homeowners with adverse credit histories benefit from near prime mortgages, as these products can provide access to financing that traditional lenders may deny.

  • Can You Get a Mortgage With a CCJ? (Yes — Here’s How)

    Can You Get a Mortgage With a CCJ? (Yes — Here’s How)

    TL;DR: Yes, you can get a mortgage with a CCJ. This guide explains which lenders accept CCJs, how long you need to wait, what size CCJ matters, and how a specialist broker helps.

    Key Takeaways

    • Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
    • Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
    • Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications

    What You Need to Know

    This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

    Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

    How It Works

    The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

    Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

    Finding the Right Broker

    A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

    Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

    Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

    How long does the application process take?

    Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

    Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

    It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.


    Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

    Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.

  • Mortgage After Bankruptcy or IVA: Timeline & Lender Guide

    Mortgage After Bankruptcy or IVA: Timeline & Lender Guide

    TL;DR: How to get a mortgage after bankruptcy or an IVA in the UK. Covers discharge timelines, which lenders consider applications, deposit requirements, and rebuilding your credit.

    Key Takeaways

    • Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
    • Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
    • Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications

    What You Need to Know

    This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

    Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

    How It Works

    The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

    Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

    Finding the Right Broker

    A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

    Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

    Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

    How long does the application process take?

    Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

    Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

    It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.


    Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

    Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.

  • Declined a Mortgage? What to Do Next

    Declined a Mortgage? What to Do Next

    TL;DR: Been declined for a mortgage? Don’t panic. This guide explains the most common reasons for rejection and the practical steps you can take to get approved, including specialist broker options.

    Key Takeaways

    • Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
    • Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
    • Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications

    What You Need to Know

    This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

    Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

    How It Works

    The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

    Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

    Finding the Right Broker

    A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

    Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

    Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

    How long does the application process take?

    Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

    Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

    It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.


    Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

    Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.

  • Adverse Credit Mortgages: Your Complete Guide to Getting Approved

    Adverse Credit Mortgages: Your Complete Guide to Getting Approved

    # Adverse Credit Mortgages: Your Complete Guide to Getting Approved

    Having adverse credit doesn’t mean you can’t get a mortgage. While it may limit your options, there are specialist lenders who understand that financial difficulties can happen to anyone.

    ## What is Adverse Credit?

    Adverse credit refers to any negative marks on your credit history, including:
    – Missed payments
    – Defaults
    – County Court Judgments (CCJs)
    – Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs)
    – Bankruptcy
    – Repossessions

    ## How Adverse Credit Affects Your Mortgage Application

    Lenders view adverse credit as an increased risk, which typically results in:
    – Higher interest rates
    – Larger deposit requirements
    – Limited lender options
    – More detailed application processes

    ## Steps to Improve Your Chances

    1. **Check your credit report** – Know exactly what’s on your file
    2. **Save a larger deposit** – 15-25% deposit can improve your chances
    3. **Work with a specialist broker** – They know which lenders are most likely to approve
    4. **Be honest** – Full disclosure is always better than discovery

    *Need help with an adverse credit mortgage? Contact our specialist brokers today for a free consultation.*

  • Adverse Credit Mortgages: Your Complete Guide to Getting Approved

    Adverse Credit Mortgages: Your Complete Guide to Getting Approved

    # Adverse Credit Mortgages: Your Complete Guide to Getting Approved

    Having adverse credit doesn’t mean you can’t get a mortgage. While it may limit your options, there are specialist lenders who understand that financial difficulties can happen to anyone.

    ## What is Adverse Credit?

    Adverse credit refers to any negative marks on your credit history, including:
    – Missed payments
    – Defaults
    – County Court Judgments (CCJs)
    – Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs)
    – Bankruptcy
    – Repossessions

    ## How Adverse Credit Affects Your Mortgage Application

    Lenders view adverse credit as an increased risk, which typically results in:
    – Higher interest rates
    – Larger deposit requirements
    – Limited lender options
    – More detailed application processes

    ## Steps to Improve Your Chances

    1. **Check your credit report** – Know exactly what’s on your file
    2. **Save a larger deposit** – 15-25% deposit can improve your chances
    3. **Work with a specialist broker** – They know which lenders are most likely to approve
    4. **Be honest** – Full disclosure is always better than discovery

    *Need help with an adverse credit mortgage? Contact our specialist brokers today for a free consultation.*