Mortgages for self-employed people, contractors and company directors
Being your own boss shouldn't make buying a home harder. Lenders look at self-employed income in very different ways, so knowing which one to approach matters.
How lenders assess your income
- Sole traders: usually net profit from your SA302s and tax year overviews
- Company directors: salary plus dividends, or with some lenders, salary plus your share of net profit
- Contractors: some lenders work from your day rate rather than your accounts
- Some lenders accept one year's accounts; most prefer two
Read the full guide to self-employed mortgages for the documents you'll need.
Expert tip: Talk to us before your accountant finalises your figures. How income is drawn can affect what lenders will offer.
Common questions
Can I get a mortgage with one year's accounts?
Some lenders accept one year of trading, subject to their criteria. Two years gives you more choice.
Advice is free. A fee is payable only when a full mortgage application is submitted, and reapplications are free. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Helpful guides
Self-Employed Mortgages: How to Get Approved in 2026
What lenders look for from sole traders, company directors and contractors, the documents you need, and how many years' accounts are required.
Read guideContractor Mortgages: Day Rates, Documents and Lender Criteria
How UK mortgage lenders assess contractors, including day-rate calculations, contract history, gaps and documents to prepare.
Read guideCompany Director Mortgages: Salary, Dividends and Retained Profit
How UK mortgage lenders assess limited-company directors and why salary, dividends and company profit can produce different results.
Read guideOther ways we can help