If you’re looking to buy your first home or move up the property ladder, you’ve likely come across the idea of getting a mortgage of 4 to 4.5 times your salary. But what does that actually mean in practice? And is it really possible in today’s market?
Let’s break it down in plain English, from a British perspective.
What Does 4 to 4.5 Times Salary Mean?
When lenders assess how much you can borrow, they often use your annual income as a guide. A mortgage of 4 to 4.5 times your salary means that if you earn £30,000 a year, you could potentially borrow between £120,000 and £135,000.
If you’re applying as a couple and your combined income is £60,000, you might be able to get between £240,000 and £270,000.
But that’s just the headline. There’s more to it than a simple multiple.
Do All Lenders Offer This?
Not all mortgage lenders are the same. Some are more cautious, sticking closer to 3.5 or 4 times your income. Others are willing to go up to 4.5 times — and in rare cases, even higher — especially if:
- You’ve got a solid credit history
- You’ve been in steady employment
- You’ve got a decent deposit (usually 10% or more)
- You don’t have large debts or financial commitments
Each lender has their own criteria. So while one bank might say no, another might say yes.
How Do Lenders Decide?
It’s not just about income. Mortgage lenders will look closely at your affordability. That means checking how much you spend each month on things like:
- Credit cards and loans
- Car finance
- Childcare or school fees
- Utilities and other bills
- Lifestyle spending
Even if your salary is decent, high monthly outgoings can limit how much you’re allowed to borrow.
What About First-Time Buyers?
If you’re a first-time buyer, getting a mortgage of 4 to 4.5 times your salary can be a bit tougher — but not impossible.
Some lenders have special deals or affordability calculators that are more flexible for first-time buyers. If your finances are in good shape and you’ve got a stable job, you may still qualify.
Top Tip: Speak to a mortgage broker who knows the UK market. They can often find deals that aren’t widely advertised.
Can You Ever Get More Than 4.5 Times?
Yes, in certain cases. Some lenders offer up to 5 or even 5.5 times your salary — but only to certain professions like doctors, solicitors, accountants, or high earners.
These cases usually come with stricter checks and a requirement for a low loan-to-value (LTV) ratio — meaning a bigger deposit is needed.
What’s Happening in the Market Now?
As of mid-2025, UK mortgage rates are still a bit higher than they were during the ultra-low interest days, but some stability is returning.
This has made lenders a bit more cautious. So while a 4 to 4.5 times salary mortgage is still common, getting approved can take a bit more planning and paperwork.
Here’s what can help you:
- Keep your credit record clean
- Reduce debts where you can
- Save up a decent deposit
- Show stable employment history
- Use a mortgage broker for tailored advice
Buying a home is never one-size-fits-all, but understanding how lenders think puts you in a much stronger position.
FAQs
Yes, self-employed applicants can get mortgages of up to 4.5 times their salary in the UK. However, lenders will usually need to see at least two years of accounts, stable income, and a good deposit. Some lenders specialise in self-employed cases, so it helps to use a broker.
Several high street banks and specialist lenders in the UK offer mortgages of up to 4.5 times income. These can include Barclays, HSBC, Nationwide, Halifax, and Santander — depending on your personal circumstances and credit profile. Criteria and offers can vary, so always check the latest lending policies.
It depends on where you’re buying. In some areas like the North of England, Wales or Scotland, it may be enough. In higher-cost regions like London or parts of the South East, it might fall short unless you have a large deposit or a second income to boost your affordability.
Some lenders offer enhanced affordability for key workers such as NHS staff, teachers, police officers, and firefighters. This might mean borrowing slightly above 4.5 times your salary — especially if your job is stable and you meet affordability rules.
Yes, applying with a partner or family member can increase the amount you’re eligible to borrow. Most lenders will assess your joint income and may offer a mortgage of 4 to 4.5 times your combined earnings — provided your outgoings are manageable.
You typically need a deposit of at least 5% to 10%, though a larger deposit can improve your chances. Some lenders are more willing to stretch the income multiple if you can offer 15% or more as a down payment.
A strong credit score can improve your chances of getting approved for a higher income multiple. If your score is low, lenders may offer a smaller loan or request a larger deposit to offset the risk.
Yes, most lenders in the UK prefer the mortgage term to end before the borrower turns 70 or 75. If you’re applying later in life, your borrowing potential may be reduced unless you can demonstrate sufficient retirement income.
Many lenders do allow first-time buyers to borrow up to 4.5 times their income, especially with good affordability and credit history. Some also offer help-to-buy or first-time buyer specific mortgage products with higher loan-to-income options.
Continue Reading
Understanding remortgage with minimum salary requirements
Mortgages for limited company directors: Navigating the path to homeownership
How to get a mortgage with no deposit
Mortgage brokers first-time buyers London
How far back do mortgage lenders look at credit history?
Self-employed mortgages London
Can I get a mortgage with bad credit if my partner has good credit?
Can you add someone to a mortgage?
Can you get a mortgage for 5 or 6 times your salary?
How to find the best mortgage brokers for first-time buyers
Single brick construction mortgage
How much can I borrow for a mortgage?
Mortgage with a gifted deposit
Joint mortgage with bad credit
Is it harder to get a mortgage if you are self-employed?
How many times my salary can I borrow for a mortgage?
First-time buyer in London? Here’s why you need a mortgage broker
First-time buyer mortgages London
Bad credit mortgage brokers London
Remortgage for self-employed borrowers