How to Get a Mortgage with Adverse Credit in the UK

If you have a less-than-perfect credit score, you might assume that securing a mortgage is out of reach. The good news? It’s not. At AJL Mortgages, we specialise in helping clients across the UK obtain mortgages even with adverse credit. Whether you’ve experienced missed payments, CCJs, defaults, or even bankruptcy, our team has the expertise and lender relationships to help you find the right mortgage deal.

In this post, we’ll explain how to get a mortgage with bad credit, what lenders look for, and why AJL Mortgages is your perfect partner on the journey to homeownership.

💡 What Is Adverse Credit?

Adverse credit, often referred to as bad credit, refers to a poor credit history typically caused by:

• Missed or late payments on loans, credit cards or utilities
• County Court Judgements (CCJs)
• Defaults
• Bankruptcy
• Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs)
• Debt Management Plans (DMPs)

These financial events can significantly impact your credit score and make it more challenging to get a mortgage from high-street lenders.

🏡 Can You Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit?

Yes, you absolutely can. While traditional banks may be hesitant, specialist lenders understand that life happens. They take a more flexible approach, often considering:

• The age and severity of your credit issues
• How much deposit you have (the higher the better)
• Your current income and affordability
• Whether your finances have improved recently

This is where AJL Mortgages comes in.

🔍 Why Choose AJL Mortgages for Adverse Credit Mortgages?

At AJL Mortgages, we pride ourselves on being whole-of-market mortgage brokers, which means we have access to specialist lenders who are open to applicants with poor credit histories. Here’s how we can help:

✅ Expert Advice, Tailored to You

We take time to understand your full financial picture and work closely with lenders who assess cases on an individual basis, not just a credit score.

✅ Access to Specialist Lenders

We work with a wide network of specialist mortgage providers who offer flexible criteria and competitive rates for clients with adverse credit.

✅ Speed and Clarity

With AJL Mortgages, you’ll get a quick decision in principle, helping you shop with confidence. We’ll also guide you through the entire process with clear, jargon-free advice.

✅ Trusted by Hundreds

We’ve helped hundreds of clients across the UK secure mortgages—even after being declined elsewhere. Read our reviews and see why AJL is a trusted name in mortgage advice.

🔑 Top Tips for Getting a Mortgage with Adverse Credit

Here are some steps you can take to boost your chances:

1. Check Your Credit Report: Review for errors or outdated information. Use Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion.
2. Save a Larger Deposit: A bigger deposit can reduce lender risk and improve your chances.
3. Avoid New Credit Applications: Each new application can negatively impact your score.
4. Get Expert Help Early: The sooner you speak to a broker like AJL Mortgages, the better your strategy and options.

📝 Real-Life Example: How AJL Helped Sarah Secure Her First Home

Sarah came to AJL Mortgages after being turned away by two high-street banks due to a default from three years ago. Our team assessed her affordability, matched her with a specialist lender, and secured a mortgage offer in under 10 days. She’s now a proud first-time homeowner.

💬 Speak to AJL Mortgages Today

If you’re worried about your credit score and think a mortgage is out of reach — think again. At AJL Mortgages, we specialise in finding solutions where others see roadblocks. Let us help you take the next step with confidence.