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Self-employed individuals often face a unique set of challenges when seeking financing. With varying income structures and documentation requirements, choosing the right lender becomes paramount. In this guide, we delve into the intricacies of obtaining a mortgage with Halifax, a prominent mortgage provider in the UK, tailored for self-employed borrowers.
If you’re self-employed and keen on exploring your mortgage options, reach out to us today. At Strive Mortgages, we possess expertise in handling self-employed mortgages with our seasoned team boasting a wealth of knowledge. You can reach us by calling 01273 002697 or emailing us at [email protected].
Understanding Self-Employment
Self-employment manifests in diverse forms, including limited company directors, sole traders, partnerships, and contractors. Halifax caters to all these categories of self-employment. It’s crucial to grasp how Halifax defines self-employment, typically considering individuals who own more than 20-25% of a company as self-employed.
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Documentation Requirements
Documentation plays a pivotal role in the mortgage application process for self-employed individuals. Halifax usually mandates a minimum of two years’ worth of accounts. This enables them to gauge income stability and financial health over time.
Income Assessment
Halifax adopts a pragmatic approach to income assessment, often averaging the last two years’ profits if they exhibit stability or an increasing trend. However, if profits are declining, they may rely on the latest year’s figures to ensure a fair representation of financial standing.
For Limited Company Directors
Halifax considers both salary and dividends for limited company directors, cross-referencing this information with the company’s accounts to ensure sustainability.
For Freelancers/Sole Traders and Partnerships
For sole traders or those in partnerships, Halifax typically examines net profit after expenses but before taxes, usually averaging over a two-year period.
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Ashley Oldershaw2025-03-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We worked with Jack, who was very clear in his explanations, spent some time learning about our situation and presented us with our options and the pros and cons of each. He was also very proactive and understood that this was unfamiliar territory for us. Jack made sure that he did everything he could to provide a smooth process from start to finish, which helped us out a lot. Thanks, Jack! Farshad Farzaneh2025-03-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jack Johnson is the mortgage broker we used from Strive mortgages and he has been very helpful and an absolute easment for the whole process of getting a mortgage. He's easy to get hold of and makes plenty of time for his clients. He has useful contacts across the industries (banks and estate agents) which can be helpful in many circumstances, especially for quick answers and resolutions to problems. Mark Williams2025-03-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jamie has been consistent in providing me with an excellent service over many years, so I wouldn't dream of using anyone else. I've also recommended him to friends and family. Peter Macciochi2025-03-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James has always been detailed but extraordinarily helpful. Always get the best advice and deals out there - simply do not go anywhere else !! Matt Ploszajski2025-03-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They did a great job arranging our mortgage. Very supportive and talked us through everything very clearly. Polly Alice2025-03-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend the service. Jack was a great help answering any questions I had about the process. Great value for money, and makes the whole process less daunting. Samantha Kilford2025-03-05Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend Jack and the team at Strive Mortgages. As a first time buyer, I was entirely clueless and Jack has been incredibly helpful at de-mystifying the entire process. Everything has been efficient and as stress-free as possible. A real top-notch advisor, Jack is always available to answer questions and provide expert guidance - I couldn't ask for more! mark slade2025-03-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely fantastic. On your side right from the start. I will be recommending Strive Mortgages at every opportunity. Thank uou so much!! H W2025-02-25Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional and efficient service that always has your best interests at heart.They set up a WhatsApp group to enable my wife and I to have seamless and rapid communication with the broker on both the mortgage application process and any general queries we had in relation to mortgages.I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to take the stress out of moving. R A2025-02-25Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jamie and his team at Strive Mortgages have been fantastic from start to finish. The process was so smooth and efficient. Jamie was always so easy to get a hold of to answer any queries we had and ensured we were happy and comfortable throughout.Id highly recommend anyone to use Strive Mortgages and will certainly continue to use Strive for all our mortgage needs!
For Contractors
Contractors undergo a slightly different evaluation process, with Halifax potentially considering the contract value as a basis for income assessment rather than solely focusing on net profit.
Borrowing Limits
Halifax typically extends income multiples ranging from 4.5 to 4.75 times income for self-employed individuals. Exceptions can be made based on factors such as income stability and financial commitments.
Is Halifax the Right Choice?
While Halifax offers competitive rates and efficient processing times, it’s essential to assess individual circumstances. Limited company directors retaining profits in their businesses might find other lenders more accommodating based on profit rather than drawings.
Exploring Your Options
If you’re self-employed and contemplating a mortgage with Halifax, it’s vital to carefully weigh your options. Seeking guidance from mortgage experts can assist in navigating the intricacies of self-employed lending. At Strive Mortgages, we specialise in catering to the mortgage needs of self-employed individuals. With our experienced team and personalised solutions, we can help you secure the financing required to achieve your homeownership aspirations.
Contact us today, and we’ll work hard on your behalf to find you a competitive mortgage.
For more information on mortgages for contractors, please contact a member of the Strive team, by emailing [email protected] or call us on 01273 002697.
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