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How to apply for a mortgage

 

Buying a new home is exciting. But whether it’s your first time or you’re moving home, the process can seem a little overwhelming.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you with our step-by-step guide.

Learn how to apply for a mortgage and how the mortgage application process works with Halifax.

Follow our 5 simple steps:

  1. Work out your deposit.
  2. See how much you could borrow.
  3. Apply for an agreement in principle.
  4. Get all your documents together.
  5. Apply for a mortgage.

Step 1: Work out your deposit

When you buy a house, you’ll usually need a mortgage deposit.

The amount you’ll need often depends on the price of the house you’re buying and your mortgage deal. This is usually at least 5% of the property’s value. Though a larger deposit could help you get a lower rate.

In the process of saving for a deposit? Get helpful tips on how to save for a mortgage deposit in the guide.

Step 2: See how much you could borrow

The mortgage calculators can help make things easy for you. They’ll give you an idea of how much you could borrow and see how changes to your mortgage could affect your repayments.

To get started, just tell us some information about your current income, regular outgoings and where you’re up to in your mortgage journey.

Mortgage calculator

Step 3: Apply for an agreement in principle

Getting an agreement in principle (AIP) is an important step when applying for a mortgage. It can give you an idea of how much you could borrow from your lender. Some estate agents might also ask for one before you view any properties, to show you’re serious about applying for a mortgage.

Before your lender gives you an AIP, they’ll usually carry out a soft credit check. This won’t affect your credit score.

An AIP is not a guarantee that you’ll be offered a mortgage. The lender will confirm the exact amount you can borrow once the full application is complete, and they’ve checked it in more detail.

Apply for an AIP

It takes around 10 minutes to complete and we’ll give you a decision right away.

Start your AIP

You could lose your home if you don’t keep up your mortgage repayments

Step 4: Get all your documents together

What do you need to apply for a mortgage? Lenders may ask for:

  • identification – such as a driving license or passport
  • proof of address – such as recent council tax or utility bills
  • proof of income – such as recent bank statements and payslips
  • where your deposit is coming from – is it from your savings or is it a gifted deposit?
  • proof of any benefits you receive.

Self-employed?

If you’re self-employed, your lender may also want to see proof of:

  • regular income and account statements
  • profits or dividends if you own a business
  • upcoming work or business if you are a trader or contractor.

Step 5: Apply for your mortgage

Once you’ve had your offer accepted on your future home, it’s time to apply for a mortgage. This process will vary from lender to lender.

If you’re applying for a mortgage with Halifax, you have 2 options:

Apply online

If you don’t need any advice, you might be able to complete your mortgage application online with Halifax.

You can track your application from start to finish, so you always know where you’re up to.

Apply online

Speak to a mortgage expert

Have a chat with one of our expert Mortgage and Protection Advisers. You can do this over the phone, in branch or by video appointment.

Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll use the information you’ve sent us to make a decision.

Request an appointment

How to boost your chances of getting a mortgage

There is no guarantee you’ll be accepted for a mortgage. But there are a few things you can do that might improve your chances.

  • Put down as much as you can afford for your deposit. A larger deposit means a lower loan to value ratio (LTV), which could make your application more appealing to lenders.
  • Check your credit score. A good credit score could have a big impact on being accepted. Try to keep track of the overall health of your finances before applying. For example, always paying off your credit card on time.
  • Have a regular, steady income. If you’ve been in your job for over 6 months and can prove you have a regular salary, this is a good sign for lenders.
  • Register to vote. Being registered to vote at your current address helps a lender confirm your identity.

Let’s take a closer look

 

Start your mortgage journey

  • Simple to use, step-by-step guide
  • Find the right mortgage deal for you
  • Keep track of your progress all in one place

Already started your mortgage journey?

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Get started

Looking to apply for a new mortgage deal?

Switch your existing Halifax mortgage

Already have a mortgage with us? See if you could switch to a new deal. Just answer a few simple questions and get an answer in around 10 minutes.

We’ll show you all the deals we have for you, so you can pick the one that suits you best.

See your personalised deals

Remortgage to us

Is your mortgage deal with your current lender ending? See if you could save money by remortgaging to Halifax. Just tell us a bit about your current mortgage and property value, then we’ll show you the deals that could be available to you.

View remortgage rates

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Are you getting ready to take your first step on the property ladder?

We're here to offer guidance along each step of your journey, to make it as simple as possible.

First-time buyer help hub