Can I Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit Score in the UK? Real Options for 2025
Yes, it’s possible to get a mortgage with bad credit in the UK. Discover real options for 2025, including first-time buyer mortgages with poor credit and how to get approved with a CCJ.
Introduction: Bad Credit Doesn’t Have to Mean No Mortgage
If you’ve had financial difficulties—missed payments defaults or even a CCJ—you may think that owning a home is out of reach. But here’s the truth:
Yes you can get a mortgage with bad credit in the UK—even as a first-time buyer.
While the road may be a little bumpier there are now more lenders brokers and mortgage products willing to consider credit-impaired applicants than ever before.
In this guide we’ll explain:
What counts as bad credit
Your real mortgage options in 2025
How lenders assess applications
What you can do to improve your chances (fast)
Specific tips for buyers with CCJs defaults and low credit scores
What Counts as “Bad Credit” for a Mortgage?
Bad credit refers to a poor credit history —usually recorded on your credit file —that signals to lenders you may be a higher-risk borrower.
Common examples include:
Missed or late payments
Defaults on loans or credit cards
County Court Judgments ( CCJs )
Individual Voluntary Arrangements ( IVAs )
Debt management plans (DMPs)
Bankruptcy or repossession
Lenders use this history to decide:
If they’ll lend to you
How much they’ll lend
What interest rate to charge
Can You Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit in the UK?
Yes—But It Depends On:
Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
Severity of credit issues | CCJ vs missed bill vs bankruptcy |
How recent the issues are | The older the issue the less weight it carries |
Your current affordability | Stable income and low debt help offset risk |
Size of your deposit | Lower LTV = less risk = more options |
Type of property | Non-standard homes are harder to mortgage |
First-Time Buyer with Poor Credit: What Are Your Options?
You’re not alone— over 35% of first-time buyers in the UK have some form of adverse credit history. The good news? Specialist lenders now cater specifically to this market.
Real Options for 2025:
Mortgage Type | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Adverse credit mortgages | Tailored for people with poor credit | Higher rates may require broker |
Guarantor mortgages | Family member supports the loan | Rare but possible in 2025 |
Shared ownership | Buy part of a property rent the rest | Easier to qualify with poor credit |
Joint mortgage | Partner or friend helps strengthen profile | Shared liability |
Help to Buy / First Homes | Can be used with specialist lenders | Credit criteria vary by scheme |
Tip: Use a mortgage broker with bad credit experience —they can access lenders not available on the high street.
Can I Get a Mortgage with a CCJ in the UK?
Yes, it’s possible—but it depends on:
Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
Age of the CCJ | Older than 2–3 years is less of a concern |
Whether it’s been satisfied | Paid CCJs are far better than unpaid |
Size of the CCJ | Under £1 000 is easier to overlook |
Number of CCJs | One is manageable—multiple may be harder |
How Much Deposit Will I Need?
Credit Profile | Minimum Deposit (2025) |
|---|---|
Excellent credit | 5% (e.g. 95% LTV deals) |
Mild bad credit | 10% |
Defaults / CCJs (older) | 15–20% |
Recent CCJs / IVA | 25–30%+ |
The more deposit you provide the better your chances—and the lower your interest rate.
How Lenders Assess Bad Credit Mortgage Applications
Lenders will look at:
Credit reports from Experian Equifax or TransUnion
Your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio
Proof of income (payslips self-employed SA302s)
Bank statements (to check spending habits)
Your overall financial recovery since the credit issues
Quick Tips to Boost Your Chances in 2025
Check your credit report – Dispute any inaccuracies
Pay off or settle any outstanding debts
Register on the electoral roll
Avoid payday loans or hard credit applications
Save a bigger deposit
Speak to a specialist mortgage broker early
What If You’ve Been Declined Elsewhere?
Don’t panic. Being declined by one lender doesn’t mean you won’t be approved elsewhere —mainstream lenders often have stricter rules than specialist ones.
Use a whole-of-market broker who has access to:
Specialist bad credit lenders
Flexible underwriters
Schemes for first-time buyers
Real Stories: First-Time Buyer with CCJ Approved
“I had a CCJ from a mobile phone bill 3 years ago—paid off but still on my file. My broker found a specialist lender who approved me with a 15% deposit. The rate was a bit higher but I’m now a homeowner!” – Tom Birmingham
Summary: Can You Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit in the UK?
Situation | Mortgage Possibility |
|---|---|
One old CCJ (paid) | Very likely |
Multiple defaults (3+ years old) | Likely with deposit |
Recent missed payments | Possible but tricky |
IVA within last 12 months | Unlikely—wait or clear |
Final Word: Bad Credit Doesn’t Mean You’re Stuck
Yes it’s harder—but not impossible—to get a mortgage with bad credit. Whether you’ve had a CCJ missed payments or are just recovering financially there are lenders who’ll consider your application in 2025 .
The key is to work with a specialist broker plan your deposit carefully and demonstrate that your finances are now stable.
Ready to take the first step?
Use tools like WiseNest to stay organised understand solicitor fees and navigate the home buying journey—whatever your credit score.
Editorial Standards & Expertise
WiseNest Editorial Team
Our expert editorial team consists of seasoned technology professionals, business strategists, and digital transformation specialists with over 15 years of combined experience in helping businesses navigate the digital landscape.
This content is optimized to answer these questions comprehensively.
Can I get a mortgage with bad credit in the UK?
Yes. Many specialist lenders offer mortgages to people with bad credit, including missed payments, defaults, CCJs, or IVAs—especially with a good deposit and stable income.
Can a first-time buyer get a mortgage with poor credit?
Yes. In 2025, many lenders offer products for first-time buyers with poor credit, especially if the issues are historic or you have a strong financial profile now.
Can I get a mortgage with a CCJ?
Yes, especially if the CCJ is satisfied, over 12 months old, and under £1,000. Some lenders accept unsatisfied CCJs, but with higher deposits and rates.
How much deposit do I need for a mortgage with bad credit?
Typically, 10–30% depending on the severity of your credit issues. The worse the credit history, the higher the deposit required.
What lenders offer bad credit mortgages in the UK?
Specialist lenders such as Pepper Money, Bluestone, Kensington, and Aldermore are known for helping buyers with adverse credit.
Does applying for a mortgage hurt my credit score?
Yes, if multiple applications are made in a short time. Use a broker to avoid unnecessary hard checks.
How long do bad credit marks stay on your record?
Most negative marks stay on your credit report for six years from the date of default or judgment.
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