Having bad credit does not automatically mean you cannot get a mortgage.
Many UK lenders will consider applications from people with credit issues such as missed payments, defaults, CCJs, IVAs or even past bankruptcy — depending on your circumstances.
At Count Ready, we specialise in helping clients with complex credit histories find suitable mortgage and protection solutions.
Yes, it may be possible to get a mortgage with bad credit in the UK.
Lenders will assess:
Some specialist lenders look beyond your credit score and consider your full situation.
A bad credit mortgage is designed for people who have had financial difficulties in the past.
This may include:
These mortgages are often offered by specialist lenders and may come with:
Bad credit can include:
The impact depends on:
We help clients with a wide range of situations:
Deposit requirements typically depend on your credit history.
A larger deposit:
✔ Reduces lender risk
✔ Improves approval chances
✔ May help secure better rates
Most lenders will consider:
Yes — bad credit mortgages usually have higher interest rates.
This is because lenders consider these applications higher risk.
However:
You can strengthen your application by:
✔ Paying bills on time
✔ Reducing existing debts
✔ Avoiding new credit applications
✔ Checking your credit report for errors
✔ Saving a larger deposit
✔ Registering on the electoral roll
Lenders will look at:
Even with bad credit, strong affordability can improve your chances.
This is very difficult, especially with bad credit.
However, possible options may include:
Most lenders will still require some deposit.
Yes, it may be possible.
It depends on:
Remortgaging could help:
✔ Opportunity to buy a home
✔ Ability to rebuild credit
✔ Access to specialist lenders
✔ Potential to remortgage later
❌ Higher interest rates
❌ Larger deposit required
❌ Fewer lender options
❌ Higher overall cost
Yes — this is one of the most important steps.
A specialist broker can:
At Count Ready, we specialise in complex mortgage cases.
👉 Get free mortgage advice
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Start your journey towards home ownership with expert guidance tailored to your situation.
Yes, applying for multiple mortgages can negatively affect your credit score. Each time you apply for a mortgage, the lender will conduct a hard inquiry on your credit report to assess your creditworthiness, and this can cause a small, temporary drop in your credit score. If there are numerous hard inquiries within a short period, it can signal to lenders that you are a higher-risk borrower, which may further lower your credit score.
In the UK, most negative information remains on your credit report for six years. This includes missed payments, defaults, CCJs, and bankruptcy. Therefore, lenders can see any financial issues you’ve had in the past six years. However, the impact of these issues on your mortgage eligibility tends to decrease over time, especially if you can demonstrate improved financial behaviour.
Yes, it’s possible to get a buy-to-let mortgage with bad credit, but your options may be more limited. Certain lenders specialise in dealing with borrowers who have a bad credit history and may offer buy-to-let mortgages. It’s important to note, however, that the rates may be higher compared to those with good credit.
Potentially, yes. If the co-borrower has a good credit score, it could improve the likelihood of securing a mortgage at a better rate. However, it’s crucial to understand that the co-borrower will be equally responsible for repaying the loan.
Yes, a high income can potentially offset bad credit when applying for a mortgage, as it could indicate to lenders that you have the means to repay the loan. However, lenders will also take into consideration other factors, such as your debt-to-income ratio and the nature of the negative marks on your credit history.
The support offered may vary between lenders. Many lenders will provide access to financial advice to help you manage your mortgage effectively. Some might offer options for payment holidays under certain circumstances or flexibility with payment dates. It’s always important to have clear communication with your lender if you’re having difficulty making payments.
Yes, if your credit score improves significantly, you might be eligible to refinance your mortgage at a lower interest rate. However, it’s important to weigh the costs of refinancing against the potential benefits.
This generally depends on your credit score and financial situation. If your credit score is good, you’ll likely qualify for a traditional mortgage with more favourable terms. However, if you have a poor credit score, a bad credit mortgage may be a viable option. It’s often best to seek advice from a financial advisor or mortgage broker who can guide you based on your specific circumstances.
Yes, a strong income can improve your chances, even with bad credit.
Most lenders review the last 6 years of your credit history.
Yes, but both applicants’ credit profiles will be assessed.
In some cases, yes — improving your credit can unlock better rates.
Yes, but typically after a few years and with improved financial behaviour.
