Bad Credit Mortgage Blog & Guides (UK)
Clear, jargon-free mortgage advice from UK specialists. Browse tips for first-time buyers, bad credit applicants, remortgagers and Shared ownership, plus tools and calculators to plan your next move.
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Can First-Time Buyers Get a Mortgage After an IVA?
If you’ve been through an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA), buying your first home might feel out of reach. But while an IVA is one of the more serious forms of bad credit, it doesn’t mean you can’t ever get a mortgage. With the right lender and deposit, it’s still possible.
Which Lenders Offer Bad Credit Mortgages for First-Time Buyers?
If you’re a first-time buyer with bad credit, one of the biggest questions is: which lenders will actually give me a mortgage? The truth is, not all lenders treat bad credit the same. High street banks tend to be strict, while specialist lenders can be far more flexible.
This guide breaks down which lenders consider first-time buyers with bad credit, how their criteria differ, and what you can do to boost your chances of approval.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Approval as a First-Time Buyer with Bad Credit
Getting a mortgage as a first-time buyer is already tough. Add bad credit into the mix, and it can feel impossible. But the truth is, thousands of people with defaults, CCJs, IVAs, or missed payments still buy their first homes every year. The key is knowing how to present your case in the best possible way.
Government Schemes for First-Time Buyers with Bad Credit (Shared Ownership, Right to Buy, First Homes)
Government schemes are designed to help first-time buyers get onto the property ladder. But if you’ve got bad credit, you may be wondering if you can still use them. The good news? In many cases, yes – but it depends on the scheme and the lender.
How Much Deposit Do First-Time Buyers Need with Bad Credit?
If you’re a first-time buyer with bad credit, one of the first questions you’ll have is: how much deposit do I need? The answer depends on the type of credit issue, how recent it is, and how severe it looks to lenders.
Getting a Mortgage as a First-Time Buyer After a CCJ
If you’re a first-time buyer with a County Court Judgment (CCJ) on your credit file, getting a mortgage might feel impossible. But the truth is, some lenders will still consider you – and in some cases, you may even get approved with just a 5% deposit if the CCJ is old enough.
Bankruptcy and Shared Ownership – Is It Possible?
Shared ownership bankruptcy cases are more complex, but not impossible. You cannot apply during bankruptcy, but once discharged and with a few years of financial stability, some specialist lenders may consider your application. Shared ownership can provide a realistic route back onto the property ladder after bankruptcy.
Shared Ownership with a Debt Management Plan (DMP)
Shared ownership with a Debt Management Plan (DMP) is possible, but your options depend on whether the plan is active or settled. While active DMPs usually require at least a 5% deposit, once your plan is complete, specialist lenders may offer up to 100% of your share. With stability and preparation, shared ownership can still be within reach.
Missed Payments and Shared Ownership – What Lenders Look At
Shared ownership missed payments don’t always mean you’ll be declined. While high street banks are strict, many specialist lenders are far more flexible. How recent the missed payments were, the type of account involved, and your overall stability all play a big role in whether you’ll be approved.
