How to Strengthen Your Mortgage Application: Tips for First-Time Buyers

For most first-time buyers, applying for a mortgage is the biggest financial step you’ll ever take. Yet many underestimate how much preparation is needed to look like the “ideal applicant” in the eyes of a lender.

If you want the best possible deal on your first mortgage, this guide will walk you through what lenders in the UK typically look for, the common red flags to avoid, and the practical steps you can take in the 6–12 months leading up to your application.

What do lenders look for?

Mortgage lenders want to be confident you can borrow sensibly and repay on time. Here are the main things they’ll consider:

• Income stability: A regular, reliable income shows you can manage repayments. Being in the same job (or sector) for at least 6–12 months helps.

• Deposit size: A bigger deposit means less risk for the lender. Mortgages are available with a 5% deposit, but 10–15% often gives access to better rates, and 20%+ usually secures the most competitive deals.

• Credit history: Your credit report reflects how you’ve managed borrowing in the past. A higher score generally means more options and lower interest rates.

• Affordability checks: Lenders look at your income alongside your outgoings, debts, and spending habits to ensure you can still afford payments if interest rates rise.

Red flags that could harm your application

Even with a decent deposit and steady income, certain behaviours can worry lenders. Watch out for these:

• Frequent job changes – Moving roles too often can suggest instability.

• Heavy overdraft use – Regular reliance on an overdraft may imply you’re stretched.

• Payday loans – A major red flag, even if repaid on time.

• Missed or late payments – Just one can damage your credit record.

• High credit card balances – Using more than half of your available limit signals financial strain.

Tip: Look at your bank statements as if you were the lender. Would your spending habits reassure you?

How to prepare 6–12 months ahead

A strong mortgage application isn’t built overnight – it takes consistency and planning. Here’s how to get “mortgage ready”:

• Pay down debts: Reduce balances on credit cards, loans, or car finance where possible.

• Get on the electoral roll: This helps lenders confirm your identity and address.

• Save regularly: Showing a pattern of consistent savings demonstrates financial discipline.

• Keep accounts tidy: Avoid unnecessary credit applications and close accounts you don’t use.

• Monitor your credit score: Free services like ClearScore, Credit Karma, or MoneySavingExpert’s Credit Club let you track your progress and correct any errors.

• Be mindful with spending: Lenders often check the last three months of statements. Keeping things sensible can make a real difference.

Why using a mortgage broker can help

Even with solid preparation, the mortgage market can feel confusing. A mortgage broker can give you a real advantage because they:

• Have access to more lenders (including some deals not available directly).

• Match you with lenders most likely to accept your application.

• Protect your credit file by checking eligibility before you apply.

• Guide you through the process, saving you time and stress.

At Home at Last, we work with a trusted network of mortgage brokers who specialise in first-time buyers. Whether your deposit is small or your credit history isn’t perfect, the right broker can open up options you may not have known existed.

Ready to start?

At Home at Last, we offer free consultations to review your situation and can connect you with the right broker to support your home-buying journey. Book your free consultation. 

Home at Last – helping first-time buyers feel confident, informed, and excited about homeownership.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice.