Published 25 August 2011 · Last reviewed 1 May 2026

I thought I drop you a line on the latest in the world of mortgages.

It’s great to report that week-on-week the lenders are becoming more tolerant to lending again. Here is a quick list of the some of the customers we can now help:

• Purchases with 10% deposit*
• Capital raising remortgages to 85% of the property value
• Buy-to-lets with just a 15% deposit
• Self employed with one year’s accounts
• Employed applicants in a probationary period
• Self build projects
• Adverse credit history

* Just 5% deposit if you are able to get support from your parents. Subject to geographic location.

Beware of low rates… read the small print

Many lenders are now marketing their products with low rates but with huge fee charges on application. This obscures the true cost as it’s easy to look at the headline rate in isolation. Personally I don’t think this is really treating the customers fairly that’s why getting professional help is always advisable as we can explain everything so you can make an informed choice.

Employed Clients

First of all congratulations for still having a job in this climate! Most lenders want to see at least 3 months bank statements and payslips. A P60 may also be requested to support the use of bonuses and overtime in the affordability calculation. Taking this variable income into account might mean the difference between your dream home or not and we guide on this.

Self Employed Clients

When working out your sums by mindful that mortgage lenders work off the figure you declare to the Inland Revenue so anything that goes outside of the books cannot be taken. That said, if you have a mortgage and want to borrow more we can help via a secured loan based on affordability shown in your bank statements.

I’m always here to talk over your requirements and remember I do not charge fee in majority cases, and have access to the whole of the market. My firm is not linked to any bank, building society or estate agent so we have offer impartial advice at all times.

Payam Azadi

Niche Advice Limited