Buying your first home is a huge milestone! But before you can pick up the keys, there’s one crucial step – applying for a mortgage. If you’re wondering “What documents do I need for a mortgage application as a first-time buyer?” you’re not alone. Many people in the UK feel overwhelmed by the paperwork. The good news is, once you know exactly what’s required, the process becomes much clearer and far less stressful.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential documents you’ll need to prepare as a first-time buyer, why lenders ask for them, and some handy tips to make sure your application goes smoothly.
Why Do Lenders Need So Many Documents?
Mortgage lenders want to be certain that you can afford the loan, and that you’re who you say you are. After all, they’re about to lend you a large sum of money. Documents help lenders check your identity, your financial history, and whether your income is stable. In short, it’s about risk – they need reassurance you’ll be able to keep up with repayments.
The Key Documents You’ll Need
1. Proof of Identity
You’ll need a government-issued photo ID. Acceptable documents include:
- A valid UK passport
- A UK driving licence
Lenders use this to confirm you’re the person applying and to meet anti-money laundering regulations.
2. Proof of Address
Alongside your ID, you’ll also need to prove your current address. Usually, you can provide:
- Recent utility bills (gas, electricity, water, or council tax)
- Bank statements showing your address
- A driving licence (if not already used as ID)
Most lenders want something dated within the last three months.
3. Proof of Income
This is where lenders take a closer look at how much you earn and how reliable your income is. The documents you’ll need depend on your employment type:
- If you’re employed:
- The last three months of payslips
- Latest P60 form (showing your annual income and tax)
- If you’re self-employed:
- One to three years of SA302 forms or tax calculations from HMRC
- Tax year overviews for the same period
- Business accounts signed off by an accountant
Lenders want to see consistent earnings and a steady employment history.
4. Bank Statements
Most mortgage lenders ask for the last three to six months of bank statements. These give them a clear picture of your spending habits, regular outgoings, and any financial commitments. They’ll be looking for:
- Regular income deposits
- How you manage bills and expenses
- Evidence of responsible financial behaviour
Tip: avoid unnecessary large spending or overdrafts in the months before applying. Lenders notice.
5. Proof of Deposit
As a first-time buyer, your deposit is key. You’ll need to show where the money is coming from. This can include:
- Savings account statements
- Evidence of a gifted deposit (such as a letter from a family member confirming the money is a gift, not a loan)
Lenders must check the deposit source to prevent fraud and money laundering.
6. Credit Commitments
Be prepared to share details of any loans, credit cards, car finance or student loans. Even if you think they’re minor, lenders need the full picture to calculate how much you can afford to borrow.
7. Credit Report (if using a mortgage broker)
If you apply directly to a bank or building society, they’ll run their own credit checks. But if you’re using a mortgage broker, you may also be asked to provide a recent copy of your credit report.
- This helps brokers understand your financial profile upfront.
- They can then match you with the right lender and mortgage product.
- You can get a free statutory credit report from the main agencies: Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion.
Having your credit report ready can save time and give your broker the best chance of finding a mortgage you’re more likely to be accepted for.
Additional Documents That Might Be Requested
Depending on your circumstances, lenders may also ask for:
- Proof of benefits or other income streams
- Evidence of bonuses, overtime or commission
- A letter from your employer confirming your job role and salary
How to Get Ready Before Applying
- Get your paperwork in order early – Don’t wait until you’ve found a property. Collect your payslips, bank statements and ID documents in advance.
- Check your credit report – Make sure it’s accurate and correct any errors.
- Save a healthy deposit – The bigger the deposit, the better your mortgage options.
- Stay financially stable – Avoid taking out new loans or making risky financial decisions just before applying.
Key takeaway: Gather your ID, proof of address, income records, bank statements, deposit details, and (if using a broker) your credit report before you apply. Preparation is the secret weapon for first-time buyers navigating the mortgage process!
FAQs
Yes. Most UK lenders ask for at least three months of payslips if you’re employed. This helps them confirm your income is steady and reliable.
Usually, lenders want three to six months of bank statements. They’ll check your spending habits, regular bills, and how you manage your money.
Yes, you can still get a mortgage if you don’t have a P60, but you’ll need to show recent payslips and possibly a letter from your employer confirming your salary.
You’ll need bank statements showing where your deposit has come from. If it’s a gift, your lender will usually ask for a signed gifted deposit letter.
Yes, every lender will run a credit check to see how you’ve managed money in the past. It’s a key part of deciding how much you can borrow.
Often, yes. Some mortgage brokers ask for a recent credit report so they can get a clear view of your financial situation and match you with the right lender. You can download one for free from Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion.
If you’re self-employed, you’ll normally need two to three years of SA302 tax calculations and HMRC overviews, plus signed accounts if possible.
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