There isn't a specific credit score requirement for a mortgage because there are multiple credit scores in use.
When you apply for a mortgage or any type of credit, Mortgage advisors evaluate your creditworthiness by calculating a credit score. This score helps them assess whether you pose a reasonable risk, indicating whether you'll be a responsible and dependable borrower capable of repaying the debt. Generally, a higher score suggests lower risk, increasing your chances of being approved for a mortgage at better interest rates.
How do lenders make their decisions?
Different lenders may employ various methods to reach their decisions, as they don't all follow the same criteria. However, they all consider several key factors, including:
Information from your credit report, encompassing your credit history and public records (e.g., CCJs and IVAs).
Details provided on your application.
Data they may already have about you, such as if you have a bank account with them.
Their specific lending policies, which can differ from those of other lenders.
Reviewing your credit report offers them a comprehensive understanding of your credit history, revealing your outstanding credit card balances, voter registration status, and any past missed payments. Combining this information, Mortgage advisors generate their own credit score.
Mortgage affordability
However, a mortgage isn't solely about your credit score. Mortgage advisors also need to ascertain whether you can afford the mortgage payments before approving the loan and taking on less risk. In addition to examining your credit history, they assess your income and your financial obligations, including fixed monthly costs such as childcare, council tax, season tickets, and other regular expenses.
If you can demonstrate that you can comfortably manage your monthly mortgage payments, even if your circumstances change or interest rates increase, it can improve your chances of obtaining a mortgage, even if your credit score isn't the highest.
What can your Credit Score reveal?
The credit score needed for a mortgage varies because there's no universal "magic number." However, having a good credit score from a major credit reporting agency is likely to reflect positively with your lender and Mortgage advisors. Checking your Credit Score before applying for a mortgage can provide insight into how lenders and Mortgage advisors may perceive you based on your Credit Report. It can also help you identify if you need to enhance your credit history before making your mortgage application.
What is a good credit score for a mortgage?
The Credit Score is derived from the information in your Credit Report and ranges from 0 to 999. It provides a good indication of how lenders and Mortgage advisors are likely to evaluate you. The higher your score, the better your chances of securing the mortgage you desire.
The following table serves as a general guide for how lenders and Mortgage advisors might perceive you based on your Credit Score, but other factors like your deposit also play a significant role:
Excellent:
Eligible for the best mortgage deals with lower interest rates.
Good:
Likely to qualify for most favourable mortgage deals.
Fair:
Able to obtain good mortgage deals with reasonable interest rates.
Poor:
May access mortgage deals but with higher interest rates.
Very Poor:
May face difficulties securing a mortgage or receive offers with very high interest rates.
What if my mortgage credit check yields a poor result?
While obtaining a mortgage with bad credit isn't impossible, it may be more challenging and may result in higher interest rates and a larger required deposit, according to Mortgage advisors. Many people have poor credit scores due to their life circumstances, such as young adults with limited credit history or newcomers to the UK.
Mortgage lenders and Mortgage advisors want to know if you can reliably keep up to date with monthly repayments and not go into debt. So showing them you can manage simple credit cards, mobile phone contracts, and utility services could help you boost your credit score.
Improving your credit score for a mortgage application
Timely credit payments are crucial to avoid additional charges and prevent missed or late payments from appearing on your credit report. Additionally, remember the following:
Avoid applying for new credit in the six months leading up to your mortgage application, as each application triggers a hard inquiry that can indicate overreliance on credit, according to Mortgage advisors.
Register to vote, as being on the electoral register helps companies and Mortgage advisors confirm who you are and where you live.
Maintain credit card balances at 25% or less of your limit, which may positively impact your score, as suggested by Mortgage advisors.
Lastly, regularly review your credit report to ensure its accuracy and completeness. Even minor discrepancies, such as address details, can affect your credit score, according to Mortgage advisors. If you identify errors, contact the relevant lender or consider seeking assistance to correct them
