Buying your first home is stressful enough without worrying about your credit score. The good news? Bad credit doesn’t automatically stop you getting a mortgage. You just need the right lender, the right guidance, and someone who knows how to present your case properly.

As a specialist first‑time buyer broker, here’s what you need to know.

What Counts as “Bad Credit”?

Lenders don’t just look at a score — they look at the actual events. Common issues we see  include:

• Late or missed payments
• Small or historic defaults
• CCJs
• Payday loan history
• High credit card balances
• Debt management plans
• Limited credit history
• Bankruptcy

Most of these can be worked with — especially if they’re older, small in value, or now resolved.

Can You Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit?

Yes. Many of my clients buy with:

✔ Mild credit issues

Often accepted by high‑street lenders with as little as 5–10% deposit.

✔ Moderate credit issues

Defaults or CCJs over 12 months old usually need 10–15% deposit.

✔ More severe issues

Recent CCJs, larger defaults or DMPs typically require 15–25% deposit and a specialist lender — but still absolutely possible.

Which Lenders Are Open to Bad Credit?

Not all lenders are the same. Alongside high‑street names, we work with specialist lenders who manually assess your case and look at the whole picture — not just a score.

This is where using a broker really matters. Many of these lenders aren’t available directly to the public.

How to Boost Your Chances (Before Applying)

Simple tweaks that make a big difference:

• Check your credit files for errors
• Reduce credit card balances
• Avoid new credit applications
• Make sure you’re on the electoral roll
• Keep bank accounts looking tidy
• Speak to a broker before applying anywhere

This avoids unnecessary declines and keeps your options open.

The Bottom Line

You can buy a house with bad credit as a first‑time buyer.
It’s about matching your situation to the right lender and presenting your case properly.