Self-Employed Mortgages From a Broker Who Understands Your Accounts
You have built a successful business, so getting a mortgage should not feel like a battle. As the sister company of Futurewise Accountancy, we understand how your income is put together and which lenders will assess it fairly.
It Is Usually the Presentation, Not the Income
Lenders like predictable income they can verify easily. Payslips do that; tax returns and company accounts are less straightforward. Self-employed applicants are often declined not because they cannot afford a mortgage, but because their income was assessed by the wrong lender, or in the wrong way.
Common problems include:
- Applying to a lender that averages two or three years of figures when your most recent year is much stronger.
- Company directors being assessed on a low salary and dividends, when profits retained in the business tell a much healthier story.
- Accounts showing reduced profit because of legitimate tax planning, which lowers the income a lender will use.
- Inconsistencies between accounts, tax calculations and bank statements that prompt underwriter queries and delays.
Each of these can be addressed with the right lender and the right preparation. That is where we come in.
Different Lenders, Different Rules
There is no single rule for self-employed borrowers. Approaches vary considerably:
Sole Traders and Partners
Limited Company Directors
Contractors
CIS Workers
Many lenders ask for two years of accounts, but some will consider applicants with one full year of trading. If you have recently moved from employment to self-employment in the same line of work, options may be wider than you think.
Accountancy Expertise Built Into Your Application
This is where our relationship with Futurewise Accountancy makes a genuine difference. We read accounts every day. We can see quickly how a lender will view your figures, spot anything likely to raise questions, and choose lenders whose assessment method shows your income in its best fair light.
With your permission, we can speak directly to your accountant, whether that is Futurewise Accountancy or your own firm, to obtain an accountant’s certificate, clarify figures or provide supporting evidence. If you are a Futurewise Accountancy client, much of the information we need is already to hand, which means fewer document requests and a faster application.
We will also be straight with you about timing. If waiting for your next set of accounts would significantly improve your options, we will tell you, and help you plan for it.
Typical Documents for a Self-Employed Mortgage
Requirements vary by lender and business structure, but commonly include:
- SA302 tax calculations and tax year overviews for the last one to three years
- Full company accounts (for limited company directors)
- An accountant’s reference or certificate (for some lenders)
- Business and personal bank statements
- Contracts and invoices (for contractors)
- Proof of identity, address and deposit
We give you a clear, tailored checklist at the start, and our secure portal makes uploading everything straightforward.
It also pays to get mortgage-ready a few months before you apply. Keeping business and personal spending in separate accounts, filing tax returns on time and avoiding new credit commitments all help an underwriter see a stable, well-managed business. If you are planning ahead, we can talk this through with you and your accountant well before you start looking at properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a mortgage with one year of accounts?
Yes, some lenders will consider one full year of trading, particularly if you were previously employed in the same field.
Will retained profits count towards my income?
With some lenders, yes. This can make a significant difference for company directors who draw a low salary and leave profits in the business.
Do I have to use Futurewise Accountancy?
No. We are happy to work with any accountant. Being a Futurewise Accountancy client simply makes the process quicker.
Explore more of what we offer
Buy to Let Mortgages
High Value & High Net Worth Mortgages
Remortgages
Working With Us Remotely
Free initial consultation
A short call or video meeting to understand what you want to achieve and what your finances look like.
Online meetings
Talk to your adviser by video or phone at a time that suits you, including [EVENINGS / WEEKENDS, CONFIRM].
Secure document upload
Send payslips, bank statements and accounts through our encrypted portal the moment you have them.
Electronic ID verification
Confirm your identity online in minutes.
E-signatures
Sign your paperwork digitally, from your phone if you like.