How long does getting a mortgage take?

The typical mortgage process takes 4-8 weeks from application to completion. However, this can vary based on the complexity of your case, property chain, and lender processing times.

What documents do I need for a mortgage?

You'll typically need: 3 months of payslips, 3 months of bank statements, proof of ID (passport/driving licence), proof of address, P60 or tax returns if self-employed, and details of any existing debts.

How much deposit do I need for a mortgage?

The minimum deposit is typically 5-10% of the property value. However, larger deposits (15-20%+) unlock better interest rates and more lender options.

Can I get a mortgage if I'm self-employed?

Yes, self-employed applicants can get mortgages. You'll typically need 2-3 years of accounts or SA302 tax calculations. Some lenders accept just 1 year of trading history.

What happens if my mortgage is declined?

Don't panic - many declines can be resolved. Common reasons include credit issues, affordability concerns, or property problems. A broker can help identify alternative lenders.

Do I need a mortgage broker?

While not essential, a broker can access deals not available directly, handle paperwork, and find lenders suited to your circumstances - especially valuable for complex cases.

Quick Answer

How Does Getting a Mortgage Work in the UK?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

Getting a mortgage involves checking affordability, getting an Agreement in Principle, finding a property, submitting a full application, and completing the purchase - typically taking 4-8 weeks.

The UK mortgage process starts before you even find a property. First, you check how much you can afford to borrow (typically 4-4.5x your income). Then you get an Agreement in Principle (AIP) - a conditional approval that shows sellers you're serious. Once you find a property and your offer is accepted, you submit a full mortgage application with all supporting documents. The lender values the property and underwrites your application. If approved, you receive a formal mortgage offer. Your solicitor handles the legal work, you exchange contracts, and finally complete - receiving your keys and officially becoming a homeowner.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Your Home Finance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA 989177).

Key Points

1Typical timeline: 4-8 weeks from application to completion
2You need 5-20% deposit (larger deposits get better rates)
3Agreement in Principle (AIP) is usually needed before house hunting
4Documents needed: payslips, bank statements, ID, proof of address
5Property valuation is done by the lender's surveyor
6A broker can access deals not available directly to you

Eligibility Criteria

Stable income (employed or self-employed)
Deposit saved (minimum 5-10%)
Acceptable credit history
Affordable monthly repayments
Property must be mortgageable
UK resident (or qualifying visa)

Typical Timeframe

The mortgage application typically takes 2-4 weeks. Adding in property searches, conveyancing, and potential chain issues, expect 8-12 weeks from starting to moving in. Having documents ready and responding quickly to requests speeds up the process.

Next Steps

1Use our free affordability calculator to see how much you could borrow
2Check your credit score with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
3Gather 3 months of bank statements and payslips
4Speak to a mortgage broker for a free initial consultation
5Get an Agreement in Principle before house hunting

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The Mortgage Process: Step by Step

Check Your Affordability

Typical duration: 1-2 days

Before starting, understand how much you can borrow. Lenders typically offer 4-4.5x your annual income. Factor in your deposit, existing debts, and monthly expenses.

Tips for this stage:

Use our free affordability calculator
Gather 3 months of bank statements
Check your credit score with all 3 agencies

Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP)

Typical duration: 24-48 hours

An AIP shows sellers and estate agents you're a serious buyer. It's a soft credit check that gives you a borrowing estimate based on basic information.

Tips for this stage:

An AIP lasts 30-90 days
It's not a guarantee of a mortgage
You can get multiple AIPs without affecting your credit

Find Your Property

Typical duration: Varies

With your AIP in hand, you can start house hunting with confidence. Estate agents will take you more seriously when you have proof of borrowing potential.

Tips for this stage:

Stay within your affordability limit
Consider additional costs (stamp duty, fees)
Factor in future interest rate rises

Make an Offer & Get It Accepted

Typical duration: 1-7 days

Once you find your property, make an offer. When accepted, you'll need to move quickly to secure your mortgage and instruct solicitors.

Tips for this stage:

Get the property off the market if possible
Instruct a solicitor immediately
Keep your broker informed

Submit Your Full Mortgage Application

Typical duration: 1-2 weeks

Your broker submits your application with all supporting documents. The lender reviews your income, employment, credit history, and the property valuation.

Tips for this stage:

Respond to document requests quickly
Don't make major financial changes
Keep payslips and bank statements ready

Property Valuation & Underwriting

Typical duration: 1-3 weeks

The lender sends a surveyor to value the property. Their underwriters review everything and may ask for additional information or clarification.

Tips for this stage:

Basic valuation is usually free
Consider a homebuyer survey for peace of mind
Be patient - this is the longest stage

Receive Your Mortgage Offer

Typical duration: 1-2 days

Once approved, you receive a formal mortgage offer valid for 3-6 months. Your solicitor reviews the terms and you sign to accept.

Tips for this stage:

Read the offer carefully
Check the interest rate and repayment terms
Understand any special conditions

Exchange Contracts

Typical duration: 1 day

You pay your deposit (typically 10%) and exchange contracts with the seller. The sale becomes legally binding with a completion date set.

Tips for this stage:

Ensure buildings insurance is in place
Confirm completion date works for everyone
Transfer deposit to solicitor in advance

Completion & Get Your Keys

Typical duration: 1 day

The mortgage funds transfer to the seller via solicitors. Once complete, you receive the keys and officially own your new home.

Tips for this stage:

Take meter readings on moving day
Set up council tax and utilities
Celebrate - you're a homeowner!

Common Delays to Avoid

Missing or incomplete documents - have everything ready upfront
Making large purchases or changing jobs during the process
Slow responses to lender queries - reply within 24-48 hours
Property chain issues - stay in regular contact with all parties
Valuation problems - consider a survey before making an offer

How Does Getting a Mortgage Work in the UK?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

Related Questions

The Mortgage Process: Step by Step

Common Delays to Avoid

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