Self Employed Mortgage Broker
Being self-employed shouldnāt make getting a mortgage harder. At Jones & Young, we specialise in helping self-employed professionals secure competitive mortgage deals by assessing income fairly and matching you with lenders who understand how you work.
Compare the best mortgages for self-employed people with expert guidance every step of the way.
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What Is a Self Employed Mortgage?
A self-employed mortgage is a standard mortgage product designed for people who work for themselves, including sole traders, limited company directors, and business owners. The mortgage rates and products available are the same as those offered to employed applicants ā the key difference lies in how mortgage lenders assess your income.
Instead of relying on payslips, lenders review evidence such as company accounts, salary and dividends, net profit, or retained profits to understand your income stability and affordability. The way your income is assessed can vary significantly between lenders, which is why choosing the right lender is so important to maximising your borrowing potential.
As specialist self-employed mortgage brokers, Jones & Young understand how different lenders view self-employed income and trading history. We handle the full application process, present your income clearly, and match you with lenders most likely to approve your mortgage. For a more detailed breakdown of how self-employed mortgages work, you can read our self employed mortgage guide.
Are Mortgages for the Self-Employed Different to Regular Mortgages?
The mortgage products and rates are the same as for employed applicants.
The only difference is how mortgage lenders assess your income.
Instead of payslips, lenders usually review:
Company accounts
Salary and dividends
Net profit or retained profits
For limited company directors, some mainstream lenders use salary + dividends, while others assess salary + share of net profit. The right lender can make a huge difference to your borrowing power.
As a specialist mortgage broker, Jones & Young know how different lenders view self-employed income and trading history. We handle the full mortgage application, present your income clearly, and find the lenders most likely to approve you.
With whole-of-market access, we secure mortgage deals from high street lenders and specialist lenders who understand self-employed applicants.
Self-Employed vs Employed Mortgages
If youāre self-employed, the mortgage process can feel a bit different from what it looks like for someone on PAYE. The good news is that you still have access to the same mortgage products, but lenders assess your income and paperwork in a slightly different way. Hereās a quick comparison to show how the process differs and what to expect.
Parameter
Self-Employed/Freelancer Mortgages
Regular Mortgages
Mortgage Products
Have access to the same mainstream mortgage products as regular employed borrowers
Access to full range of mainstream mortgage products
Income Assessment
Focus on income stability over years through tax returns, bank statements etc
Recent payslips typically sufficient
Income Sources
Multiple income streams from different sources
Mainly salary
Underwriting Process
More manual and tailored assessment of complex income situations
Highly automated based mainly on employment and credit checks
Specialist Support
Often use specialist brokers familiar with unique tax and income circumstances
Less reliance on specialist brokers
Receive The Mortgage Deals You Deserve
We have over thirty years of experience in helping self-employed contractors like you find the mortgages they need. Even if youāve struggled to find a mortgage through other channels, we may have access to many specialist lenders that may be able to help.
How to Get a Mortgage When Self-Employed
Getting a mortgage when you’re self-employed is completely achievable, though the process differs slightly from PAYE applications. Since your income doesn’t come from regular payslips, lenders need extra evidence to understand how you earn, how stable that income is, and how affordable the mortgage will be long-term.
The good news: many lenders actively support self-employed applicants, including sole traders and limited company directors. With the right preparation and documentation, you can access the same products and competitive rates as employed borrowers.
To assess your application, lenders will typically want to see:
- SA302s: evidence of income declared to HMRC through your Self Assessment return
- HMRC tax year overviews: confirming your tax position alongside your SA302
- Certified accounts: ideally prepared by a qualified accountant, showing your business performance and financial figures
Requirements vary by lender, trading history, and how your income is structured, so a specialist broker can talk you through exactly what you’ll need before you apply.
1. Build a Strong Trading History
Most lenders want to see:
1 to 2 years of company accounts or tax returns
SA302s and tax year overviews
Consistent trading history showing stable or rising income
Some specialist lenders will accept one year’s accounts, even if you have credit issues or missed payments.
2. Show Income Stability
Lenders assess income differently depending on your business structure:
Limited company directors ā salary and dividends or salary + share of net profit
Company directors with retained profits ā some lenders include retained profits to boost borrowing power
Sole traders ā average net profit over 1ā2 years
A clear and consistent income pattern can increase your borrowing capacity.
3. Prepare Essential Documents
Be ready to provide:
Company accounts prepared by a qualified accountant
Tax calculations and tax year overviews
Recent bank statements
Proof of ongoing contracts or income
Good-quality documents can make all the difference in the mortgage application process.
4. Strengthen Your Deposit and Credit Profile
It’s important to note that:
A larger deposit improves eligibility and access to better mortgage deals
A clean credit history helps most lenders feel confident you can maintain mortgage repayments
Check your credit report before applying and correct any errors
5. Work With an Experienced Mortgage Broker
A specialist mortgage broker who understands complex income structures can:
Identify the right lender
Present your income correctly
Avoid the risk of applying to the wrong lender and being declined
Specialist Mortgage Advice for Complex or Non-Standard Circumstances
60-95% Loan to Value (LTV)
Loan to Value(LTV) options typically 60-95%
Trusted Advice
Clear and concise guidance based on your circumstances.
Communication
Helping customers cut through the noise to understand things their way.
Gross Pay Used
The Lenders average your income over the last 3 months' GROSS pay. Not the net amount from your tax calculations.
Specialist Rates
We help you explore options across mainstream and specialist lenders, focusing on those whose criteria match your credit history.
Types of Self-Employed Workers Eligible for Mortgages
Here are some examples of the types of self-employed workers that can be eligible for mortgages based on the information in the IPSE report:
Includes functional managers, directors, production managers, financial institution managers etc. Comprise 10% of solo self-employed.
Includes science, engineering, health, teaching, business/legal professionals. Largest freelancer group at 42%.
Includes artists, authors, media occupations, IT technicians, finance associates, paramedics etc. 18% of solo self-employed.
Construction trades, electricians, mechanics, printers, wood trades, textiles etc. 22% of solo self-employed.
Includes childminders, pet sitters, hairdressers, housekeepers, travel assistants. 7% of solo self-employed.
Includes retail managers, shop keepers, opticians, pharmacists. 3% of solo self-employed.
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Whatever your circumstances, Jones & Young will work to find a mortgage solution that fits your goals and supports your long-term financial stability.
Disadvantages of Freelance and Self-Employed Mortgagesā
While self-employed mortgages offer flexibility, there are also considerations to be aware of ā below we highlight the main advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision.
Area
Advantages
Disadvantages
Income Assessment
Income forecasts allow higher lending potential
More extensive income proof requirements
Mortgage Rates
Specialist brokers can secure better rates
Perceived as higher risk by some lenders
Flexibility
Can overpay in good months and underpay in bad months
Harder to show repayment ability with fluctuating income
Underwriting
More personalised underwriting approach
Slower application process with extra verification steps
Tax Efficiency
Continue tax efficient business structure
Reduced net income lowers maximum loan amount
Portfolio
Easier to get subsequent investment mortgages
Restricted to lower LTV ratios for investment properties
The key trade-off is providing more upfront income evidence and paperwork in return for specialised lending deals tailored to self-employed profiles.
Factors Affecting Mortgage Approval for Self-Employed
When reviewing a self-employed mortgage application, lenders take a detailed look at your overall financial position to assess affordability, stability, and risk. Unlike employed applicants, self-employed borrowers must provide additional evidence to demonstrate consistent income and responsible financial management. Factors such as your credit history, deposit size, bank statements, debt levels, and how your income is structured can all influence whether a mortgage is approved and the rates available.
This is where working with an experienced self-employed mortgage broker makes a real difference. At Jones & Young, we understand how different lenders assess self-employed income and what they look for at each stage of the application. We help you prepare the right documentation, present your income clearly, and identify lenders most likely to approve your mortgage based on your circumstances. By addressing these factors upfront, we aim to improve your approval chances, reduce delays, and secure the most competitive mortgage deal possible.
Credit History
Having a good credit history with timely repayments establishes you as responsible with money and reduces risk in lendersā eyes. Aim for a strong credit score above 720.
Size of Deposit
A deposit of around 10% may be sufficient for some self-employed mortgage cases, depending on the lender and your circumstances. A larger deposit of around 15ā20% can help you access more competitive rates and improve your overall LTV position, though the deposit that’s right for you will ultimately depend on the lender’s criteria and your individual situation.
Bank Statements
Provide consistent bank statements, ideally 3-6 months to show stability of income. Any large fluctuations or gaps may raise concerns over repayment ability.
DTI Ratio
The lower your debts compared to income, the better in terms of risk and affordability for lenders. Reduce existing debts if possible to lower your DTI ratio.
Proof of Income
Have all income statements, tax documents, invoices, contracts in order to substantiate your freelance earnings over 1-3 years for the lender’s affordability calculation.
Improve Credit Score
Actively maintain or improve your existing credit score. Dispute and correct any errors in your credit report negatively affecting your score.
Keep Good Records
Carefully maintain up-to-date records of all income sources, tax liabilities, and business expenses documentation that lenders may request to see.
Keep Tax Deductions Minimal
Reduce unnecessary business expenses that lower your net income. Lenders focus on your profit for repayment ability.
Why Trust Jones & Young as Your Self Employed Mortgage Broker Specialists
Choosing the right mortgage as a contractor or self-employed professional can feel complicated, but it doesnāt have to be. At Jones & Young, we specialise in helping independent earners secure the borrowing they deserve, with clear, honest advice tailored to how contractors actually work.
You can explore all the mortgage options we offer right here.
90ā95% Loan-to-Value Options
Access mortgage products offering 90ā95% LTV, designed specifically for contractors and self-employed professionals.
Clear & Expert Guidance
Receive straightforward advice focused on finding the most suitable mortgage for your individual circumstances.
Simple, Jargon-Free Communication
We explain everything in plain English, so you always feel confident and in control of your decisions.
Gross Income Considered
Many lenders assess your average gross income over the last three months, rather than net profit, which can significantly increase borrowing potential.
Competitive Specialist Rates
We source contractor-friendly rates from across the market to ensure you receive the best value available.
30+ Years of Industry Experience
Benefit from decades of experience supporting contractors, freelancers, business owners and the self-employed.
Personalised Mortgage & Protection Advice
Get tailored recommendations built around your lifestyle, financial goals and long-term stability.
Whole-of-Market Access
We work with the entire mortgage market, giving you access to a wider choice of lenders and better deals.
Years Experience
Independent Advice
Specialist Lenders
Read What Our Customers Say
Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and their feedback speaks for itself. Many describe our brokers as friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to go the extra mile to help them secure the best deal.
How Is Self-Employment Income Calculated for a Mortgage?
Here is how self-employment income is typically calculated by mortgage lenders:
Sole Traders
For sole traders, lenders will look at your average net profit before tax over the last 1-2 years based on your submitted tax returns and accounts. Some lenders may also consider just one yearās profit/loss.
Limited Company Directors
For limited company directors, lenders will assess your self-employment income based on your:
Average salary over the last 1-2 years
Salary and share of net profit 1 -2 years
Average dividends over the last 1-2 years
Director’s loan account balances
Retained profits in the company
Income forecasts in some cases
Your personal and corporate tax returns will be used to evidence these income sources. Most lenders will use a combination of your salary, dividends and other income to work out your maximum lending amount.
General
If your income has varied up and down:
Some lenders may take your lowest income figure to be conservative
Others may average out the last 2 years income to smooth out spikes
So your particular income profile can impact how different lenders interpret your affordability. A specialist broker will advise accordingly.
Latest Specialist Mortgage Guides
Stay informed with our latest specialist mortgage guides and in-depth mortgage case studies. Each article is written to help you better understand the world of specialist mortgages, offering clear advice and real examples from our clientsā experiences.
House Price to Income Ratio UK 2026: Self-Employed Included
Home Ownership Statistics UK 2026: Outright vs Mortgaged
UK CIS and Construction Self-Employment Statistics 2026
Self-Employed Remortgage: How to Get a Better Deal When Your Fixed Rate Ends
Self-Employed Mortgage Declined? Here’s Why It Happened and What to Do Next
Inside IR35 Mortgage: Yes, You Can Still Get One (Here’s How)
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Self-Employed Mortgage FAQs
Weāve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about self employed mortgages below:
Is it harder to get a mortgage when youāre self employed?
Not necessarily. The mortgage products are the same as a standard mortgage, but the self employed mortgage requirements involve more detailed income checks. Lenders review your trading history, tax records, and overall lending criteria before offering the right mortgage for your situation.
How long do I need to be self employed before I can get a mortgage?
Most lenders prefer at least one to two years of trading history. Some specialist lenders accept one yearās accounts or a strong first year if your employment status was similar before becoming self employed. A self employed mortgage advisor can help you find lenders with more flexible criteria.
What proof of income do I need as a self-employed applicant?
Lenders usually ask for SA302s, tax year overviews, company accounts, and personal bank statements. They use these documents to verify income stability and calculate affordability, including projected monthly repayments.
Can I get a mortgage with one year's accounts?
Yes, itās possible with certain specialist lenders, especially if your company profits or income pattern is strong. Having a larger deposit or clean credit history improves your chances of approval and access to competitive self employed mortgage deals.
Can I get an interest only mortgage when self employed?
Yes, but lending criteria for interest only mortgages are stricter. Youāll need a clear repayment strategy, such as investments, future earnings, or property sale. Lenders must be confident the mortgage will be repaid at the end of the term.
How much can I borrow if I am self employed?
Borrowing is typically based on income from company accounts, salary and dividends, or net profit. Many lenders use income multiples to calculate your maximum loan. Using a mortgage calculator gives a quick estimate, but an experienced mortgage advisor will give a more accurate figure based on your full financial profile.
Why do lenders treat self employed applications differently?
The income structure for self employed applicants can be more complex. Lenders need to confirm that your income is sustainable long-term rather than relying on simple payslips. This means your mortgage application is assessed manually to ensure the right mortgage is offered for your situation.
Can I remortgage if Iām self employed?
Yes. If your trading history, credit file, and company accounts support affordability, you can remortgage to secure better rates, consolidate debt, or release equity. A self employed mortgage advisor can compare options and recommend lenders most likely to approve your application.
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