Credit scores part 2: getting a mortgage with a low credit score

Understandably, banks and building societies are careful who they lend money to, and financial histories are always looked into, with no exceptions. However, a low credit score doesn't necessarily mean you can't still get a mortgage. 

Looking into a credit history will show up any defaulted payments and give the lender a good impression of how financially responsible you are with your spending. As well as looking at your credit report, lenders will also look at any County Court Judgements (CCJs) or bankruptcy proceedings that may be against your name.

If any of these apply to you, then you may find it harder to be accepted for a mortgage, however, there are certain lenders who will still lend to you.

What’s my credit score like?

It’s always best to see your own credit score; this way you can better understand if and why there might be a reason for a refusal of your mortgage application. You can request to see your own credit rating from companies like Experian, Equifax and CallCredit. Remember, there are some really simple ways you can help improve your credit score by being a little more vigilant, such as registering on the electoral roll. Read our guide to how you can improve your credit score for a mortgage application.

Mortgages with low credit ratings

If you do have a poor credit score, it’s more likely that the interest rate on your mortgage could be higher, in order to compensate the risk that the lender is taking. In this case, it may help if you have a larger deposit to put down upfront in order to potentially reduce your monthly repayments.

Other options available

If you’re struggling to get a deposit together, there are other options that could be available to you:

The Bank of Mum and Dad

If you have a family member who owns a home and is willing to help you out, they can be named on your mortgage as a guarantor, and either:

Their home is used as security - your mortgage company would reclaim money from your guarantor, or repossess their home if you failed to meet the repayments on your mortgage.

Or

Use their savings as security - your guarantor will put a lump sum into a savings account with the lender. This money will be unattainable until you have paid off a certain amount of money on your mortgage.

First Homes scheme

First Homes scheme provides first time buyers with a 30% discount on new build homes, compared to the market price. Find out more about First Homes scheme here. 

Speak to our mortgage advisers about getting a mortgage with a low credit score. We can search the market and discuss all the options available so you can find a product to suit you.