Mortgages for contractors

Our contractor mortgages can be tailored to your unique circumstances. We can work with a large range of contractor types from the self employed freelancers to employees on fixed-term contracts. 

Your contractor mortgage experts

If you are a contractor looking for a mortgage, our specialist contractor mortgage advisers are here to help find a lender that understands your circumstances and pair you with a mortgage tailored to your needs. We work with contractor friendly mortgage lenders to help find you the most flexible and suitable approach to your circumstances. 

What is a contractor?

In the eyes of mortgage lenders, a contractor is an individual who works on a contract-by-contract basis, often through a limited company or as a sole trader. Under the contractor umbrella can include freelancers, self-employed individuals, and those working in the gig economy.

Contractors are often seen as higher-risk borrowers due to the unpredictable nature of their income and the potential for fluctuations in their earnings. Understanding this perspective is crucial for contractors seeking a mortgage, as it influences the lending criteria and the types of mortgage products available to them. 

What is a contractor mortgage?

A contractor mortgage is a type of mortgage designed to help those without permanent employment purchase a home or mortgage their existing property. The contractor mortgage process involves unique steps, making it essential to work with a knowledgeable broker who understands these specific conditions.

Since its introduction as a sought-after mortgage type, the contractor mortgage range offers a broad variety of mortgage options, such as interest-only and offset mortgages, tailored to accommodate the unique financial situations of contractors. Whilst contractor mortgages can be difficult to navigate, they are designed with your unique circumstances in mind.

Getting a mortgage as a contractor can involve challenges such as demonstrating a consistent income, maintaining a good credit score, and providing additional documentation to lenders. Mortgages for contractors take into consideration your gross contract rate rather than individual payslips or accounts, helping contractors with irregular income buy their dream homes.

Definition and explanation of contractor mortgages

Contractor mortgages are specialised mortgage products designed for independent professionals, such as freelancers, contractors, and consultants, who do not have a traditional employment contract. These mortgages take into account the unique financial situation of contractors, who often have variable income and may not have a fixed salary. Contractor mortgages are designed to provide a more flexible and accessible way for contractors to secure a mortgage, despite their non-traditional employment status.

How much can I borrow with a contractor mortgage?

The amount you can borrow with a contractor mortgage will depend on several factors including your income and monthly outgoings.

It is crucial to seek expert mortgage advice from specialists who understand the unique challenges faced by contractors and freelancers.

A specialist mortgage broker will discuss the options available to you depending on which lending criteria you meet, including securing a mortgage based on your unique income situation, as this will determine which mortgages might suit your circumstances.

How contractor mortgages differ from traditional mortgages

Contractor mortgages differ from traditional mortgages in several keyways. Firstly, contractor mortgages often have more flexible lending criteria, which consider the contractor’s variable income and may not require a fixed salary.

In addition to its flexibility, contractor mortgages may have different documentation requirements, such as contracts, to verify your income. Contractor mortgages may also have different interest rates and repayment terms, which are tailored to the contractor’s unique financial situation.

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Very professional and friendly service.

Andrew Card at Bower Home Finance was recommended to us by Jake Sumner a mortgage advisor that our son David had used. This is the first time that my Wife and I explored equity release and had heard some negative views about it from different sources and we have to admit we approached the process with some naivety and caution. From the very start Andrew was extremely helpful and informative no matter how many questions we put to him. We sometimes went back to Andrew with the same questions and at all times Andrew showed great patience and took time to explain our queries clearly with no 'jargon' or confusing detail. Andrew made the whole process comfortable and understandable from start to finish and also recommended a very good solicitor for the necessary legal advice required. We would have no hesitation in recommending Andrew Card and Bower Home Finance.

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The service received from Bower was excellent and my advisor, Vanessa Carver, was very knowledgeable on the whole process. The meeting I had with her was very thourgh and I was very impressed with the way we discussed my situation and aspirations. I would recommend Bower to my friends and colleagues if they ever decided to consider equity release, Kind regards and thank you again for the service provided RJ Martin

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First class service from start to finish

First class service from start to finish. Vanessa couldn’t have been more helpful, her communication and the information she provided was excellent. She kept us updated throughout the process and got us the best product for our needs, even finding out through her research that I am now entitled to Council Tax support, hence saving me money throughout the year too! Vanessa is a credit to your company and I would have no hesitation in recommending her to anyone looking to explore equity release in the future.

Mr Beard

Desborough

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Following my initial online contact I received a phone call which enabled me to start the process with confidence. I did not feel 'pushed' or 'managed' in any way. I was able to have face to face meetings at home so that I could clarify issues that I was unsure about, and from the beginning Steve was excellent at informing of updates via phone and email. He also helped by researching local surveyors for me so that I could quickly and easily make my selection. Throughout the process he was cheerful, positive and a lovely person to work with!

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Highly recommended

We did our research and decided on Bower because it stood out; I believe it was the smallest company we looked at and hoped for a more personal service, than some of the ‘big boys’, which Bower certainly lived up to. Our enquiry quickly led to an appointment with Andrew Card, who was so knowledgeable and explained everything, in language that we understood. He then did his research and came back with our options. Although we had a couple of hiccups, Andrew stepped in and sorted them out without any fuss. We have now completed our equity release and would like to thank Andrew and Nicky for all their support. We would certainly have no hesitation in recommending Bower, and of course Andrew Card, to anyone.

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Contractor mortgage specialists at Bower Private Clients

At Bower Private Clients, we are here to help you find the best mortgage for your circumstances. Our specialist mortgage advisers are experienced in navigating non-traditional income streams and tailoring mortgages to each of our clients, so they can move forward with peace of mind.

Whether you are looking to purchase your first home or remortgage an existing property, our specialist advisers can help guide you through the complexities of securing a mortgage loan as a contractor, whilst helping you secure the best deal for your circumstances.

Fulfil your property dreams

From helping you to get on the property ladder to remortgaging your home with a mortgage for contractors, our specialist mortgage advisers are on hand to help you fulfil your property dreams.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a mortgage if I am a contractor from genuine contractor mortgage lenders? 

Yes, if you meet the specified lending criteria you will be able to get a mortgage as a contractor. Many contractors find specialist contractor mortgages are more suited to their circumstances as some lenders will see their contractor status as higher risk. This is why our mortgage advisers work with specialist lenders to help you find the best deal.  

What are the lending criteria for a contractor mortgage? 

Lending criteria for contractors can vary between lenders, but typically include the following: 

  • Minimum Contract History: Lenders usually require a minimum contract history to demonstrate income stability. 
  • Income Requirements: A minimum day rate or annual income is often necessary to qualify. 
  • Credit History: A good credit history is essential to meet lending criteria. 
  • Proof of Identity and Income: Contractors must provide proof of identity, income, and employment. 
  • Proof of Contract and Address: Documentation to verify current contracts and residential address is also required. 

Lenders may also consider the contractor’s industry, experience, and qualifications when assessing their application. Meeting these criteria can enhance a contractor’s chances of securing a mortgage. 

What are the benefits of a contractor mortgage for freelancers and self-employed workers? 

Contractor mortgages offer several benefits tailored to the unique financial situations of freelancers and self-employed individuals: 

  • Flexibility: These mortgages can be customized to accommodate irregular income and variable expenses, providing a more personalized lending solution. 
  • Competitive Interest Rates: Specialist lenders often offer competitive interest rates for contractor mortgages, which can help reduce monthly repayments and save money over the life of the loan. 
  • Increased Borrowing Power: Contractor mortgages can provide higher borrowing power than traditional mortgages, as lenders consider the contractor’s day rate and contract history. 
  • Simplified Application Process: Specialist mortgage brokers can guide contractors through the application process, making it easier to secure a mortgage. 

By leveraging these benefits, freelancers and self-employed individuals can find mortgage solutions that align with their financial goals and circumstances. 

What documents will I need to prove my income as a contractor? 

FTo prove income as a contractor, lenders typically require the following documents: 

  • Bank Statements: Showing regular income deposits. 
  • Contracts and Invoices: To verify ongoing and completed work. 
  • Tax Returns and Accounts: Providing a comprehensive view of financial health. 
  • Proof of Dividend Payments: If contracting through a limited company. 
  • Proof of Identity and Address: Standard documentation to confirm identity and residence. 

Specialist mortgage brokers can assist contractors in gathering these documents and preparing a strong mortgage application, ensuring all necessary information is accurately presented. 

Mortgage Specialist

With access to over 500 lenders, Bower will help you release equity and create liquidity to acquire property, whenever you want to buy

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured on it. Some buy to let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Bower Private Clients provides impartial whole of market advice with an award winning customer service experience. There will be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend upon your circumstances but a typical fee of £695 will be payable on the application of the mortgage.

Speak to one of our dedicated customer specialists or arrange your free, initial no-obligation quote by calling us on freephone 0203 817 6040.