Specialist Cases

    Bad credit or complex case? There may still be a way.

    Missed payments, defaults, a CCJ, an IRO, a previous IVA or simply an unusual situation. High street lenders often say no on credit score alone. Specialist lenders look at the full picture, and so do we. A 'no' from one lender is not a 'no' from the market.

    • Adverse credit considered. Defaults, CCJs, missed payments, DMPs, IVAs and discharged bankruptcy.
    • We start with your credit file. Understanding what is actually recorded is the first step to a real plan.
    • Refinance and consolidation. Options to simplify payments where suitable and affordable.
    • Honest, judgement-free advice. We tell you what is realistic now and what could be possible later.

    Specialist case fee

    Our fee for customers who have a poor history of managing their credit is £890, payable on application. This is in addition to any lender or product fees and is disclosed in writing before any application is submitted. You will always be told whether your case will be charged before any work begins.

    The FCA does not regulate some forms of Buy to Lets. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home/property.
    Your home/property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other debt secured on it.

    FAQ

    Bad credit and complex mortgage questions

    Honest answers to the questions we hear most often from applicants with adverse credit.

    Can I get a mortgage with defaults, CCJs or missed payments?
    Often yes, depending on what happened, when, the amount involved and whether it has been settled. Specialist lenders look at the context, not just the credit score. The older the issue and the cleaner your recent profile, the more options you typically have.
    How long after an IVA, DMP or bankruptcy can I borrow?
    It varies by lender. Some will consider applications shortly after discharge or settlement, while others require a number of years to have passed and a clean profile since. Higher deposits and stronger affordability usually open up more lender options. We will set realistic expectations from the outset.
    Will I have to pay a higher interest rate?
    Typically yes. Specialist lenders charge higher rates to reflect the additional risk. As your credit profile improves over time, it may be possible to remortgage onto a more competitive deal. We will always show you the full cost so you can make an informed decision.
    How big a deposit will I need?
    Specialist mortgages typically require larger deposits than standard mortgages, often 15 to 25 percent or more depending on the severity and recency of the credit issues. The larger your deposit, the broader the lender choice and the better the rates available to you.
    Should I check my credit file before applying?
    Yes. Your credit file is the starting point for any specialist case. We will review what each main credit reference agency holds about you, identify anything that looks incorrect or outdated, and help you understand what lenders will see. This avoids unnecessary applications that could damage your file further.
    Why is there a fee for specialist cases?
    Specialist cases require considerably more underwriting, lender research and case management than a standard application. The £890 fee, payable on application, reflects this additional work and the specialist lender access we provide. The fee is fully disclosed in writing before you commit to anything.
    Is there a chance I will still be declined?
    Yes. We will only ever proceed with a lender we have a reasonable expectation will lend, but underwriting decisions remain with the lender. If your circumstances mean a mortgage is not realistic right now, we will tell you honestly and, where possible, suggest steps that could put you in a stronger position in future.

    Tell us what happened

    The earlier you talk to a specialist, the more options you usually have. Conversations are confidential and there is no judgement here.

    Get in Touch

    Ready to get started with your mortgage?

    Tell us a bit about your plans and we'll be in touch to guide you through your options. We aim to respond within 20 minutes!

    Ves Doctorov

    Ves Doctorov Cert SMP

    Owner & Principal Mortgage Adviser

    07554 663 631ves@themortgageleague.co.uk
    25 Constable Close, Reading, Berkshire, RG5 4US
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