A mortgage after credit problems.
A default, CCJ or missed payment does not automatically mean no. Lenders will look at what happened, when it happened, how much was involved and whether it has since been resolved. We check the criteria before applying and explain your options honestly.
- Defaults, CCJs, arrears and previous bankruptcies considered
- No lender credit check for an initial conversation
- High street and specialist lenders explored
Before you apply anywhere.
Speaking to us and checking your own credit report, does not affect your credit score.
Most Agreements in Principle use a soft credit search, although some lenders use a hard search. A full mortgage application will normally involve a hard search. A declined decision is not recorded on your credit report, but the search is, and several hard searches in a short period can reduce your options.
We review your credit history and the lender’s criteria first, explain what type of search will be used and only recommend applying where the case fits.
Check first. Apply carefully.
What lenders actually assess.
Lenders do not simply ask whether you have bad credit. They look at the detail:
- What happened. A missed mobile phone payment is very different from mortgage arrears or a repossession.
- How much was involved. Some lenders disregard small communication defaults or low-value credit issues, but the thresholds vary.
- When it happened. Recent problems carry more weight. Many defaults and CCJs remain visible for six years, but being on your report does not automatically make them unacceptable.
- Whether it has been resolved. Settling a default or satisfying a CCJ can improve your options, although some lenders will consider outstanding credit issues.
- What has happened since. Clean payment conduct, lower borrowing and stable finances can all strengthen the application.
What we may be able to work with.
Depending on your deposit, income and overall circumstances, options may be available for:
- Missed or late payments. The lender will consider how recent they were, what account they related to and whether they formed a pattern.
- Defaults and CCJs. Recent, older, satisfied and even some outstanding entries can be considered by different lenders.
- Debt management plans. Some lenders accept completed plans, while others will consider one that is still active and being maintained.
- IVAs, DROs and bankruptcy. The available lenders will depend on when the arrangement was completed or discharged. Waiting longer usually opens more options, but you may not need to wait six years.
- Previous repossession. This is among the more difficult scenarios, but it does not automatically prevent you from getting another mortgage.
What it may cost.
Adverse credit does not always mean paying a higher rate or providing a larger deposit. Minor or older issues may still fit a high-street lender’s standard criteria.
More recent or serious problems are more likely to require a specialist lender, which can mean a higher interest rate, a larger deposit or both. We show you the full cost before recommending anything.
Your credit history isn’t the whole story
Missed payments, defaults or CCJs don’t always mean a mortgage is out of reach. We’ll look at the details and timing, then explain which options may be realistic for you. Your first conversation is free, with no pressure to proceed.
Call 01225 258900Questions
Your questions regarding credit, answered.
Can I get a mortgage with a default or a CCJ?
Very often, yes. Lenders weigh what it was for, how much it was, how long ago it happened and whether it has been settled. A satisfied default from three years ago is a routine case. Something large and recent is harder but rarely impossible.
Will talking to you affect my credit score?
No. An initial conversation involves no credit search whatsoever. What does damage your file is applying to several lenders and being declined, every application leaves a footprint, and they compound. We check criteria first, then apply once.
How long does adverse credit stay on my file?
Six years from the date it was registered, after which it drops off entirely. Its weight decreases every year before that, so timing your application can matter as much as choosing the lender.
Will I pay a higher rate?
Usually, yes, and you will typically need a bigger deposit, often 15% to 25%. But it is normally temporary. Take a two-year fix, keep your record clean, and by the time you remortgage the adverse is older and your options are considerably wider.
Ready when you are.
Whether you’re arranging a mortgage or protecting what matters, tell us what you need and we’ll explain your options clearly. Your first conversation is free and there’s no obligation.
Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up with repayments on your mortgage.
