Getting a mortgage when you’re self-employed can seem more complicated but it doesn’t have to be. At Orchard Mortgage Solutions, we specialise in helping self-employed applicants secure the right mortgage, whether you’re purchasing a new property, moving home, or remortgaging.

We work with a broad range of lenders who understand how self-employed income works and take a flexible approach to assessing applications. Whether you’re a sole trader, company director, or contractor, our expert advisers can guide you through the process from start to finish.

Can You Get a Mortgage if You’re Self-Employed?

Yes, you can. Being self-employed doesn’t stop you from getting a mortgage. However, lenders assess self-employed income differently than they do for salaried employees.

That’s why working with a mortgage adviser who understands self-employed applications is so important. We’ll help you prepare the right documents, explain how lenders review income, and find the best options based on your circumstances.

How Much Income Proof Do You Need?

In the past, most lenders required three years of accounts. Today, many are more flexible.

• One year of accounts: Some lenders accept applicants with just one full year of trading history.
• Two years of accounts: This is still the most common requirement and provides a stronger base for affordability.

If you’ve recently increased your income or only have one year of trading, we can guide you to lenders who will consider your most recent year of earnings or use your latest figures to assess affordability.

How Do Lenders Assess Self-Employed Income?

How your income is assessed depends on the structure of your business:

Sole Traders and Partnerships

Lenders usually look at your net profit, using figures shown on your SA302s and HMRC Tax Year Overviews.

Limited Company Directors

Lenders may assess your income in one of two ways:

• Salary and dividends, or
• Company net profit, either before or after tax

Some lenders will use retained net profit from your business accounts in addition to salary and dividends. This method can sometimes significantly increase your borrowing capacity, especially if you retain income in the company rather than drawing it out.

We help you find lenders that use the method most favourable to your income situation.

Documentation You’ll Need

To apply for a self-employed mortgage, you’ll need to provide clear and up-to-date financial information. Most lenders request the following:

• SA302s and Tax Year Overviews for the last 1–3 years
• Certified business accounts, preferably prepared by a qualified accountant
• Personal and business bank statements, covering at least 3–6 months
• Proof of identification and address
• Information on existing loans, credit cards, or other financial commitments

Being prepared helps speed up the process and improves the likelihood of approval.

What If Your Income Varies?

Self-employed income often fluctuates from year to year. Lenders understand this and usually take an average of your income over two years. In some cases, they may consider just your most recent year—especially if your income is rising and stable.

If your income has dipped temporarily, we can present supporting information that explains your situation and helps reassure lenders.

Improve Your Mortgage Affordability

Here are a few practical ways to strengthen your mortgage application:

• Keep business records accurate and up to date
• Use a certified or chartered accountant
• Reduce outstanding debts before applying
• Separate business and personal finances

We also work with lenders who offer manual underwriting, where real people—not just computers—assess your application. This allows for more flexibility, especially in complex or unique situations.

Why Work with Orchard Mortgage Solutions?

We specialise in helping self-employed professionals find mortgage solutions that work. Our advisers understand the unique income structures of business owners, freelancers, contractors, and company directors.

When you work with us, you’ll receive:

• Expert advice tailored to your business and income
• Access to lenders who understand self-employment
• Step-by-step support from initial enquiry to completion
• Assistance with paperwork, affordability checks, and legal steps

Whether you’ve been self-employed for one year or ten, we’ll help you secure a mortgage that suits your goals.

Get Expert Help Today

Let our experienced team take the stress out of the mortgage process. We’ll help you understand your options, prepare the right documents, and match you with lenders who make fair decisions based on your true income.

📞 Call us today 01257 543013 to speak with one of our expert advisers
📧 Or use our contact form to arrange a no-obligation consultation