How much can I usually borrow for a mortgage?

Most UK and EU lenders use an income multiple of 4 to 4.5 times your gross annual salary (combined for joint applications). Some lenders go up to 5 or 5.5 times for professionals or high earners. The exact figure depends on your credit profile, deposit, monthly outgoings and lender criteria.

What is a mortgage stress test?

Lenders must check whether you could still afford your mortgage if interest rates rose. The current FCA stress test typically uses the lender's reversion rate plus 1%. This calculator applies the same principle so the affordability figure reflects realistic lending behaviour.

How does deposit size affect what I can borrow?

A larger deposit means a lower loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, which unlocks better rates and higher income multiples. Typically: 5% deposit = lowest tier, 10% = better rates, 25%+ = best rates and highest multiples. A 40%+ deposit usually qualifies for the very best products.

Do monthly outgoings really reduce how much I can borrow?

Yes. Lenders subtract committed monthly outgoings — credit cards, car finance, student loans, childcare, school fees — from your disposable income before calculating affordability. Clearing a £200/month commitment can free up roughly £30,000–£40,000 of borrowing capacity.

Is this calculator a guarantee of how much I'll be lent?

No — it is a realistic estimate based on common lender criteria. Actual lending decisions also assess credit history, employment stability, length of time in current role and the specific property. Speak to a qualified mortgage adviser for a personalised assessment.

🏠 Mortgage Affordability Calculator

See how much you could realistically borrow based on your income, deposit and monthly outgoings — stress-tested using standard FCA-style assumptions.

Currency

Your gross annual income (£)

2nd applicant's income (£)

Deposit available (£)

Monthly debt repayments (£)

Mortgage term (years)

Interest rate (%)

Lender type

⚠️ Indicative only. Final lending decisions are based on your full credit profile, employment history and the property. Capital at risk. Think carefully before securing debts against your home. Not financial advice.

How Mortgage Affordability is Assessed

UK and EU lenders use two parallel checks before agreeing to lend. First, an income multiple cap — typically 4 to 4.5 times your gross annual income. Second, an affordability stress test — they verify your monthly payment would still be affordable at a rate roughly 1% higher than today's reversion rate. The lower of the two becomes your borrowing limit.

Income Multiples by Lender Type

Conservative (4×) — building societies and older specialist lenders
Standard (4.5×) — most high-street banks for typical applicants
Generous (5×) — first-time-buyer products, large deposits
Professional (5.5×) — doctors, lawyers, accountants and other certified professionals

How to Increase Your Borrowing Capacity

Clear short-term debts: credit cards, car finance and store cards reduce affordability pound-for-pound
Boost your deposit: moving from 90% LTV to 75% LTV often unlocks both better rates and higher multiples
Add a joint applicant: two incomes are pooled — the income multiple applies to the combined figure
Stable employment: 2+ years in the same role / industry consistently scores best
Improve your credit file: register on the electoral roll, settle any defaults, keep credit utilisation below 30%

Common Pitfalls

Forgetting school fees, childcare or maintenance payments in monthly outgoings
Recent overdraft use or gambling transactions reducing affordability scoring
Self-employed applicants needing 2+ years of accounts (averaged)
Bonus and commission income discounted 50% by many lenders

Last reviewed: June 2026. Estimates only — confirm exact figures with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser before acting.

⚠️

Important Note: This tool provides an indicative borrowing estimate. Final mortgage approval requires a full credit assessment and property valuation. Speak to a qualified, FCA-regulated mortgage adviser before making property decisions.

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