Affordability Myth #7: “If your credit score isn’t perfect, you won’t get a mortgage”

Here’s where many people slip up. You might have heard stories or read online that unless your credit score is spotless, there’s no chance of getting a mortgage.

That’s simply not true – and believing it can stop people from even trying.

The reality

Yes, a strong credit score can open doors to better interest rates and more options, but it’s not the only thing lenders care about.

In the UK, mortgage lenders look at the full picture:

• Your income.
• Your outgoings and debts.
• How much deposit you’ve saved.
• Your credit history, not just the score.

Even if you’ve had a few financial hiccups – a missed payment here or there, or a default from a few years back – that doesn’t automatically shut the door. Some lenders specialise in helping people with less-than-perfect credit.

What to think about instead

Rather than stressing over hitting a “perfect” score, try this instead:

• Check your credit reports (from Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion) – make sure there are no mistakes.
• Pay bills on time and try to bring down any outstanding debts.
• Save what you can for a deposit – even a small buffer can boost your application.
• And most importantly: don’t count yourself out.

Bottom line?

You don’t need a flawless credit history to get a mortgage. You just need to understand your financial position, be honest about it, and find the right lender for your situation.

A mortgage advisor can help you do exactly that.