Bad Credit Mortgage Advice

Having bad credit can make applying for a mortgage feel more complicated, but it does not always mean you have no options.

At Just Mortgages, our Adverse Credit Solutions Team helps people who have experienced credit problems understand what may be possible. Whether you have missed payments, defaults, a CCJ, an IVA, a Debt Management Plan, bankruptcy, or a previous repossession, we can help you explore your mortgage options.

Can I get a mortgage with bad credit?

You may still be able to get a mortgage with bad credit, depending on your circumstances. Lenders will usually look at the type of credit issue, how recent it was, whether it has been resolved, your deposit, income, outgoings and overall affordability.

Some high street lenders may be cautious if you have adverse credit, but specialist lenders may take a more flexible approach. The right lender for you will depend on your individual situation.

What counts as bad credit?

Bad credit can include a range of issues on your credit file, such as:

Not all credit issues are treated in the same way. A single missed payment from several years ago may be viewed differently from recent defaults or more serious adverse credit.

What do lenders look at?

When assessing a mortgage application from someone with bad credit, lenders may consider:

What type of credit issue you have
When it happened
Whether the debt has been repaid or settled
How your credit has been managed since
How much deposit you have
Your employment status and income
Your regular outgoings
Whether the mortgage is affordable

The more recent or serious the credit issue, the more limited your options may be. However, this does not mean you should assume you cannot get a mortgage.

Can I remortgage with bad credit?

It may be possible to remortgage with bad credit, depending on your current mortgage, property value, equity, income and credit history.

Some people look to remortgage after experiencing credit issues because they want to review their current deal, raise funds, or improve their monthly payments. However, it is important to get advice before making any decisions, especially if your credit profile has changed since you first took out your mortgage.

Can first-time buyers get a mortgage with bad credit?

Yes, first-time buyers with bad credit may still have mortgage options, although the process can be more complex.

Lenders will usually consider your deposit, income, affordability and credit history. A larger deposit may help, but every lender has different criteria. Speaking to a specialist mortgage adviser before applying can help you understand what may be realistic.

How can I improve my chances of getting a mortgage with bad credit?

Before applying, it may help to:

Check your credit file for errors
Make sure all current payments are made on time
Reduce unnecessary borrowing where possible
Avoid taking out new credit before applying
Save as much deposit as you can
Gather documents that explain your income and financial position
Speak to a specialist mortgage adviser before approaching lenders

Applying to the wrong lender could lead to a declined application and unnecessary credit searches. Getting advice first can help you take a more informed approach.

How Just Mortgages can help

Our Adverse Credit Solutions Team understands that credit problems can happen for many reasons. We will take the time to understand your circumstances, explain what lenders may look for, and help you explore suitable mortgage options.

We can support clients with a wide range of credit issues, including CCJs, defaults, missed payments, IVAs, Debt Management Plans, bankruptcy and repossession.

Speak to a bad credit mortgage adviser

Bad credit does not have to stop you from asking what may be possible.

Whether you are buying your first home, moving home, remortgaging or simply trying to understand your options, Just Mortgages can help you take the next step with clear, supportive advice.

Speak to our Adverse Credit Solutions Team today

Bad Credit Mortgage FAQs

Can I get a mortgage with bad credit?

You may be able to get a mortgage with bad credit, depending on the type of credit issue, when it happened, whether it has been resolved, your deposit and your affordability.

What credit issues can affect a mortgage application?

Credit issues that may affect a mortgage application include missed payments, defaults, CCJs, IVAs, Debt Management Plans, bankruptcy, repossession and high levels of unsecured debt.

Do I need a bigger deposit if I have bad credit?

You may need a larger deposit if you have bad credit, but this will depend on the lender and your circumstances. A bigger deposit can sometimes increase the number of options available.

Will a bad credit mortgage have a higher interest rate?

It could. If your credit history limits the number of lenders available to you, the mortgage products you qualify for may differ from standard high street deals. Your adviser can explain what may be available based on your situation.

Can I get a mortgage with bad credit as a first-time buyer?

It may be possible for first-time buyers with bad credit to get a mortgage. Lenders will consider your deposit, income, affordability and the details of your credit history.

Can I remortgage with bad credit?

You may be able to remortgage with bad credit, depending on your current mortgage, property value, equity, income and credit profile. It is worth getting advice before applying.

Should I apply directly to a lender if I have bad credit?

It is usually sensible to speak to a specialist mortgage adviser first. Lender criteria vary, and applying to an unsuitable lender could lead to a declined application or unnecessary credit searches.

How can Just Mortgages help with bad credit?

Just Mortgages’ Adverse Credit Solutions Team can review your circumstances, explain what lenders may consider, and help you explore mortgage options that may be suitable for your situation.