Self-Employed Mortgage Advice in Brighton and Hove
Being self-employed does not mean getting a mortgage is difficult, but it does mean lenders often require a little more evidence to assess your income.
Whether you are a sole trader, company director, contractor or freelancer, preparation can make a significant difference.
What Do Mortgage Lenders Want to See?
Most lenders look for evidence of consistent income and a sustainable business. Documents commonly requested include:
- SA302 tax calculations
- Tax year overviews
- Business accounts
- Bank statements
- Proof of identification
Some lenders may accept just one year’s accounts, while others prefer two or more years of trading history.
Common Challenges
Self-employed applicants often experience issues when:
- Income varies from year to year
- Company profits differ from personal drawings
- Recent business investments reduce declared income
- Records are incomplete
Working with an experienced mortgage adviser can help identify lenders that are comfortable with your circumstances.
Tips to Improve Your Application
- Keep accounts up to date
- Reduce unnecessary borrowing before applying
- Check your credit report
- Maintain clear records of income and expenditure
- Speak to a mortgage adviser early
Local Knowledge Matters
Brighton and Hove have a large community of freelancers, consultants and business owners. Understanding how local professionals structure their income allows specialist advisers to present applications effectively to lenders.
Talk to Hove Mortgages
If you are self-employed and looking to buy a home, remortgage or move property, our team can help you understand your options and find a lender suited to your situation.