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At Strive, we specialise in arranging mortgages for professional rugby players across all levels of the game — from academy graduates to Premiership and international stars.
For over a decade, we’ve worked closely with players, clubs, and trusted industry partners to help rugby professionals secure the right mortgage, no matter how complex their income or contract structure.
We understand the nature of a rugby career — short contracts, performance bonuses, and early retirement windows — and how these can make traditional mortgage applications unnecessarily difficult. Our role is to simplify that process, pairing you with lenders who truly understand the sporting profession.
Looking for 5 star mortgage advise? We’re ready to help.
Whatever stage you’re at, it’s never too early to reach out.
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How much can a Professional rugby player borrow?
How much you can borrow depends on the lender and how they assess your income. Sports-aware lenders will often annualise your weekly or monthly pay across a 46–48 week playing period, accounting for rest and off-season periods.
For example: £2,000 per week over 48 weeks equals £96,000 per year. At a 5× multiple, that might suggest a borrowing capacity of £480,000.
Some specialist or private lenders may stretch to 5.5× or even 6×, especially if you have a long contract or secondary income from sponsorship or coaching. At Strive, we know which lenders are open to these approaches and how to structure your case to maximise borrowing.
How is a Rugby player’s income treated for a mortgage?
Rugby pay often includes base salary, match fees, win bonuses, and commercial income. While many lenders are conservative, we work with those who understand contract complexity.
Most lenders impose age caps (often 35–37) due to the physical nature of the sport. But if you can show a viable post-playing career plan — such as coaching, media work, or business ventures — some lenders may extend borrowing eligibility beyond that.
We specialise in packaging all income streams to reflect true affordability and future stability.
Professional history requirements
Each lender has different criteria:
- Some accept applicants with no minimum time as long as your contract is active.
- Others prefer 6–12 months of professional history.
- Some need up to 2 years of consistent income.
Contract length matters too. Some lenders accept short or expiring contracts if a renewal is expected, while others need 6–12 months remaining.
At Strive, we know which lenders understand rugby’s contract cycles and can guide you accordingly.
Deposit requirements
Deposit levels vary based on loan size, income structure, and lender risk appetite.
- Some players may borrow with a 5% deposit.
- For larger sums (often above £750,000), expect deposits in the 10–25% range.
Bonuses and match fees may count if they are regular and proven; one-off or signing bonuses usually do not. Lenders often want to see at least a full season’s variable income history (or average over two seasons).
Mortgage term and age limits
Because of the physical demands of rugby, many lenders tie maximum term to age. Common caps are around age 36, though exceptions exist with strong plans post-career. For younger players, longer terms may be available.
At Strive, we customise term limits to align with both your playing career and your life after the game.
What rates can rugby players expect?
Rates depend heavily on deposit size, loan-to-value, and income complexity.
- Bigger deposits generally attract lower rates.
- Rates tend to improve at standard LTV bands (e.g. 90%, 85%, 80%).
- Straightforward income cases may qualify for mainstream lenders; more complex ones often require specialist or private lending.
Even with variable income, rugby professionals can secure competitive rates — when their case is properly presented.
Speak to an advisor today, to lock you in with the best deal.
For retired or transitioning players
Once your playing career ends, mortgage eligibility shifts to your new income and role. Whether you move into coaching, broadcasting, business, or entrepreneurship, your mortgage application will be structured on those income streams.
Some lenders maintain sports-friendly policies for former professionals, especially those with strong contract histories or existing asset portfolios.
Interest-only options
Interest-only mortgages are appealing to athletes wishing to lower monthly outgoings and maintain flexibility.
- Most lenders require a 25% deposit for pure interest-only.
- Hybrid products (partial repayment + interest-only) may be available with smaller deposits.
This setup can work well if you expect future bonuses or lump sums — giving you breathing room in the short term.
Private banking and high-net-worth lending
For top-tier professionals with elevated earnings or significant assets, private banks offer bespoke mortgage solutions beyond standard offerings.
If your annual income exceeds £300,000 or your net assets surpass £3 million, private banks may consider:
- Multiple income sources (sponsorships, endorsements, foreign contracts)
- Complex corporate or trust structures
- Large loan sizes or interest-only terms
These banks offer bespoke repayment plans, exclusive rates, and a deeper understanding of high-net-worth financial profiles.
For more on these services, see our pages on Mortgages for Professional Sportspersons, Mortgages for High Net Worth Individuals, and Private Bank Mortgages.
Why choose Strive
At Strive, we’re proud to be trusted partners to professional athletes, clubs, and agents — helping rugby players at every stage of their career secure the right mortgage, the right way.
We deal with professional sportstars across all disciplines, giving us the experience and relationships to handle even the most complex financial arrangements with precision and discretion. Whether you’re an academy prospect, a Premiership regular, or an international player nearing retirement, our team ensures your mortgage reflects both your career and your long-term goals.
Speak to Strive today for expert, confidential mortgage advice tailored to professional athletes.
FAQ’S
The best banks for Rugby Plater mortgages depend on various criteria, including your deposit, credit history, nationality, and the amount required. Options can range from high street banks to private banks, each offering different terms and conditions based on your specific situation.
Yes, while it’s possible to source a mortgage without a specialist, you have a much better chance of finding the right deal with a specialist Professional Rugby Player broker. These brokers understand the unique financial situations of professional athletes and can navigate the complexities of footballer contracts and income, ensuring you secure the best possible terms for your mortgage.
Jamie Elvin
Jamie is an expert in all things mortgages, and our most experienced broker. Connect with Jamie and get started to see how Strive Mortgages can help you.
