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Getting a First-Time Buyer Mortgage with Bad Credit

No judgement, just mortgages.

Buying your first home is a major milestone, but securing a mortgage with bad credit can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are solutions available to help you overcome these challenges.

Discover your borrowing power with NO credit checks, only takes a few minutes!

See what's possible
Get guided help

Getting a First-Time Buyer Mortgage with Bad Credit

No judgement, just mortgages.

Buying your first home is a major milestone, but securing a mortgage with bad credit can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are solutions available to help you overcome these challenges.

Discover your borrowing power with NO credit checks, only takes a few minutes!

See what's possible
Get guided help
Author's Avatar Author: Carl Shave CEO and co-founder

3 mins

Updated: September 8th, 2025

Contents

3 mins

Updated: September 8th, 2025

In this article

Can first-time buyers get a mortgage with bad credit? Will first-time buyers with bad credit face unique challenges? What are bad credit mortgages for first-time buyers? Why should first-time buyers with bad credit work with a specialist bad credit broker? The advantages of being a first-time buyer How first-time buyers can strengthen their bad credit mortgage application What documents will lenders require? Why choose Just Mortgage Brokers for your Bad Credit Mortgage?

Can first-time buyers get a mortgage with bad credit?

If you’re struggling to secure a mortgage due to bad credit, you may need to explore options with specialist lenders, but it is possible to get a mortgage as a first-time buyer. Specialist lenders aren’t always on the high street, but the good news is that such mortgages are available – you just need to know where to look.

These lenders evaluate your financial situation holistically, focusing on:

  • When the credit issues occurred
    • Older issues, like a missed payment from several years ago, are less concerning than recent CCJs or defaults.
  • Type and severity of issues
    • A single missed payment is less severe than multiple defaults or a recent bankruptcy.
  • Efforts to resolve your credit issues
    • Proving you’ve taken steps to address past financial problems can improve your chances.

Will first-time buyers with bad credit face unique challenges?

You may be relieved to know that your experience of homeownership is largely irrelevant to a lender’s assessment. Their decision to lend is mostly made depending on the level of bad credit you have, as well as the amount of deposit or existing equity. You will not be penalised for being a first-time buyer.

What are bad credit mortgages for first-time buyers?

Bad credit mortgages are specifically designed to help those with poor credit histories achieve homeownership. As a first-time buyer, these mortgages give you a vital opportunity to get on the property ladder.

There are some key considerations to be aware of:

  • Higher deposit requirements: Typically, between 15–25%, though some specialist lenders may accept less depending on your circumstances.
  • Higher interest rates: Reflecting the increased risk, though rates can improve as you prove reliability over time.
  • Focus on affordability and current financial behaviour: Even with past credit issues, demonstrating stability today can help you qualify.

Why should first-time buyers with bad credit work with a specialist bad credit broker?

As a first-time buyer, the mortgage market can feel like a maze. When bad credit is added to the equation, the stakes get higher. This is where a specialist broker becomes invaluable. Here’s why:

  • Access to exclusive deals:
    • Many specialist lenders only work with brokers as intermediaries, offering products not available to the public.
  • Tailored advice:
    • Our mortgage advisors assess your unique situation and match you with the best lender for your needs.
  • Improved application success:
    • Our team will help to present your case in the best light, increasing your likelihood of approval.

The advantages of being a first-time buyer

Even with bad credit, being a first-time buyer has its perks.

Depending on where you live, there may be government-backed schemes to help you with your deposit.

First-time buyers often have an edge in competitive housing markets since you’re not waiting on a sale to complete.

Until March 31st 2025, stamp duty relief for first-time buyers is available on properties with a value of up to £425,000. From April 1st 2025, the government is reducing this to properties with a value of £300,000 or less [3].

If you’re almost ready to make your first home purchase, speak to our specialists today!

How first-time buyers can strengthen their bad credit mortgage application

Start by reviewing your credit file with Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion.[4] Look for:

  1. Errors or inaccuracies
  2. Unresolved issues, such as unpaid debts

Correcting mistakes and resolving outstanding debts can boost your creditworthiness.

The more you can put down, the less risk the lender takes on. A deposit of 15–25% can make a significant difference.

Lenders want to see consistent, responsible financial behaviour.

  • Pay bills on time
  • Avoid taking on new debt
  • Maintain a steady income

Our brokers and advisors streamline the process, connecting you with the most suitable lenders. They also ensure your application highlights your strengths.

What documents will lenders require?

To assess your eligibility, lenders typically request:

  • Proof of income: Recent payslips, P60s, or tax returns for self-employed applicants.
  • Bank statements: Usually covering the last 3–6 months, showing income and outgoings.
  • Credit report: A full report from one of the major credit agencies.
  • Details of your credit issues: Information on defaults, CCJs, or other adverse credit
  • Proof of deposit: Evidence of savings or gifted funds.

Why choose Just Mortgage Brokers for your Bad Credit Mortgage?

  • This is our speciality – it’s what we do
  • Direct access to lenders underwriters enabling us to discuss your situation in detail
  • Exclusive deals available
  • Broker only bad credit lenders available to us giving you greater choice
  • Unlimited mortgage broker – giving a wide range of lenders at our disposal
  • Great customer reviews

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

While a larger deposit is ideal, some lenders may accept lower deposits (10–15%) depending on your circumstances. However, expect higher interest rates.

Multiple hard credit checks can affect your score negatively. Working with a broker ensures your application is targeted to lenders likely to approve, minimising unnecessary checks.

Most issues, like defaults or CCJs, remain on your credit file for 6 years. However, their impact diminishes over time, especially if you demonstrate improved financial behaviour.[5]

Improving your score helps, but it’s not always necessary. Specialist lenders focus on your current affordability and financial habits[6]

[1] MoneyHelper (21.12.22) Can you get a mortgage with bad credit?  (Accessed: 7.11.24)

[2] FCA (26.04.14) MCOB 11.6 Responsible lending and financing (Accessed 7.11.24)

[3] Gov.uk (n.d.) Stamp Duty Land Tax (Accessed 7.11.24)

[4] ICO (n.d) Credit (Accessed 7.11.24)

[5] MoneyHelper (n.d) How to improve your credit score (Accessed 7.11.24)

[6] Citizens Advice (22.02.19) Collecting information about your debts (Accessed 7.11.24)

About the author

Author's Avatar

Carl Shave: CEO and co-founder

Carl Shave has been involved in the mortgage & finance industry since leaving education and is one of the co-founders of Just Mortgage Brokers. He has written guest posts and provided journalist comments for companies such as The Times, FT Adviser, Mortgage Strategy, Mortgage Solutions and others, demonstrating his extensive industry knowledge.

Qualifications:
Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CEMAP): Year Attained: 2001

FCA Profile
Author's Avatar

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