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Getting approved for a mortgage is one of the biggest steps toward homeownership—but it doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to move up the property ladder, knowing how to get a mortgage approved can save you time, money, and disappointment.
In this guide, we’ll break down the exact steps you need to take to improve your chances of getting approved for a mortgage—and we’ll show you how a mortgage broker can help make the process faster and smoother.
When applying for a mortgage, lenders assess your creditworthiness and financial stability. The main things they evaluate include:
Knowing these key areas gives you a head start in preparing your application.
Pro tip: Aim for a credit score of at least 620, but 700+ gives you better interest rates.
One of the most critical factors in mortgage approval is your credit score. Your credit report shows how reliable you’ve been in paying back credit in the past.
Keyword to note: “credit score for mortgage approval”
The more you put down, the better your chances of getting approved—and the more likely you are to access lower interest rates. Most lenders require at least 5% of the property’s value, but a 10–20% deposit is even better.
Use a mortgage deposit calculator to find out how much you need.
Before house hunting, get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (also called a Decision in Principle). This is a lender’s indication of how much they’re willing to lend based on your basic financial details.
Having an AIP shows estate agents and sellers that you're a serious buyer, and it speeds up the final mortgage process.
A mortgage broker does the hard work for you—matching you with the right lender, finding the best rates, and helping you prepare a strong application.
Keyword focus: “mortgage broker for first-time buyers” and “best mortgage deals UK”
Lenders want to see proof of your income, identity, and financial behaviour. Before applying, gather these documents:
Make sure everything is up to date and accurate—any red flags can slow down or derail your application.
Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is a key metric lenders look at. The lower your monthly debts compared to your income, the better.
Lenders want to be sure you can afford your mortgage even with interest rate rises.
Don’t change jobs, take out new loans, or make large unexplained transactions before or during your mortgage application. These can raise red flags and delay approval.
Stability is key—keep your finances steady until you’ve completed your home purchase.
There are many types of mortgages—fixed-rate, tracker, interest-only, and repayment. The best choice depends on your goals, income, and long-term plans.
This is where a mortgage broker can provide tailored advice and help you compare deals from across the market—not just your bank.
Long-tail keyword tip: “how to choose the best mortgage deal”
Always provide truthful information. Lenders verify everything, and discrepancies can result in delays or rejection. Be upfront about any missed payments or credit issues—some lenders specialize in “bad credit” mortgages and may still approve you.
Getting approved for a mortgage doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking the right steps—checking your credit, working with a mortgage broker, saving a solid deposit, and preparing your documents—you can maximise your chances of success.
If you're ready to take the next step, speak to a trusted mortgage advisor who can walk you through the process, compare the best deals, and help you get your mortgage approved faster.
If you’re a first-time buyer, self-employed, or unsure where to start—get in touch with us today for free, no-obligation advice. We’ll help you get mortgage-ready and find the right deal tailored to your situation.
Get pre-approved faster. Apply with a broker who works for you.
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