Mortgages for Bad Credit
Bad Credit Mortgages That Put You Back in Control
Even with CCJs, IVAs, defaults or a low credit score, there may still be mortgage options. At The Mortgage Shop, we take time to understand your circumstances and explain what lenders look for with a deposit, affordability and time since any credit issues, so you can move forward confidently. Speak to us for clear, jargon-free guidance and a practical next step. (Information only, not personal advice.)
Our Story
Part of a Trusted National Network
We’re proud to be part of the Openwork network, one of the UK’s largest and most established financial advice networks.
This gives us access to a carefully selected panel of reputable protection providers, offering a broad range of policies to suit different lifestyles, budgets and priorities. We’re part of a trusted national network, giving our advisers access to a broad panel of specialist bad credit mortgage lenders across the UK. Whether you’ve had CCJs, IVAs, defaults, missed payments or a low credit score, we’ll explain lender criteria, deposit/LTV expectations and the steps to improve eligibility. As a whole-of-market mortgage broker for poor credit, we match you with realistic options and guide you from soft credit check through to mortgage offer—clearly and compliantly.
Bad Credit Explained
What Counts as “Bad Credit” for a Mortgage?
Many UK lenders class bad credit (also called adverse credit) as any recent or significant issue on your credit file. Understanding which events matter—and how long they impact you—helps set realistic expectations before you apply for a bad credit mortgage.
Common events lenders consider
CCJs (County Court Judgments) and defaults
IVAs, Debt Management Plans and bankruptcy
Missed payments on loans, credit cards or mobile contracts
Low credit score or thin/no credit history
Tip: Time since the event, the size of the debt, and whether it’s now settled all affect your mortgage eligibility.
Key Factors in Approval
How Lenders Assess Bad Credit Mortgage Applications
For bad credit mortgages, lenders look beyond your score to overall risk and affordability. The big levers are your deposit/LTV, how recent/serious any issues are (CCJs, IVAs, defaults), and your recent payment conduct.
Key factors
Deposit & LTV: Larger deposit = more lender options.
Time since events: Older/satisfied issues score better.
Recent conduct: 6–12 months of clean payments helps.
Affordability: Income vs outgoings across bank statements.
Employment evidence: PAYE vs self-employed/contractor requirements.
Quick wins
Check Experian/Equifax/TransUnion and fix errors.
Register on the electoral roll; keep addresses consistent.
Reduce credit utilisation and avoid new credit before applying.
Our Approach
We Can Help You:
Our advisers will take the time to understand your situation, explain your options clearly, and guide you through every step of the life insurance journey – from initial enquiry to completion.
Life insurance
Provides financial support for your loved ones if you pass away
Family income benefit
Provides ongoing support for your family in the event of your death
Critical illness cover
Pays out a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness covered by the policy
Mortgage protection
Helps ensure your mortgage can still be repaid if you become ill or pass away
Income protection
Offers a regular income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury
Mortgages For Bad Credit
As a specialist bad credit mortgage broker, we’ll assess your circumstances, and guide you through the process
Mortgages for bad credit aren’t just about past financial issues – they’re about giving you a second chance to secure the home you deserve. We’re here to guide you through the process, explain your options clearly, and help you move forward.
Mortgages for bad credit are subject to lender criteria and individual circumstances. If repayments are not maintained, your home may be repossessed. Mortgage offers depend on affordability, credit history and deposit size, and not all applicants will be eligible.
Why Choose The Mortgage Shop?
With over three decades of experience, we have built a reputation for excellence and customer satisfaction in the mortgage and financial services industry.
Family-run business
with local values
Friendly, straightforward advice
no jargon, no pressure
Tailored protection plans
to suit your life, needs, and budget
Access to quality providers
through the trusted Openwork network
Support every step of the way,
from first enquiry to application
