Will getting a new job affect my mortgage application?

• A new job isn’t a deal‑breaker – but lenders rank stability highly. The shorter your employment track record, the stronger the rest of your application needs to be.

• Probation periods raise flags. Fewer than three months in post is the crunch point; six months offers more comfort. Letters from HR, longer employment history and larger deposits can offset risk.

• Future income can help if you have a signed contract starting within 90 days – some lenders will underwrite against it.

• Wait three to six months if you can. This gives you payslips, clears probation and smooths underwriting.

• Going self‑employed means starting again. Most lenders need 2 years of accounts (a minority accept 1 year with evidence of sustained work).

• Zero‑hour / contract workers face extra scrutiny – see our dedicated guide.

• Tell your lender immediately if your job changes after you’ve applied; hiding it risks the offer being withdrawn.

Mortgage payments are a long‑term commitment. During a probation period you can usually be let go with little notice, so lenders see higher risk. If you change industry or take a significant pay cut, they ask: is this income reliable enough to cover 25 years of repayments?

Key lender concerns:

• Income continuity – the longer your record in the same sector, the better.

• Probation clauses – can you be dismissed easily?

• Variable pay – bonuses, commission or overtime may be discounted if unproven.

• Affordability buffer – new travel or childcare costs? Higher living expenses?

If you haven’t applied yet and a job move is on the horizon:

1. Check timeframes. Can you delay the mortgage 3–6 months until you’re settled? Waiting usually means lower rates.

2. Get pre‑approval first. Some borrowers secure a Mortgage in Principle on their current job, then switch roles after completion. Beware: lenders reserve the right to re‑check employment at any stage.

3. Line up paperwork early – your signed employment contract, HR letter confirming salary and start date, plus a brief explanation if you’re changing industries.

4. Speak to a broker. We’ll match you with lenders that accept ‘day‑one’ income or consider future salary.

Tell your broker/lender immediately. Concealing the change is mortgage fraud. The underwriter will then reassess affordability. Expect them to request:

• Updated payslips (or first payslip once received)

• Signed contract & probation details

• Proof of any variable components (bonus scheme, overtime policy)

• Worst case: the offer is withdrawn if the new salary is lower or probation is lengthy. Usually, they’ll pause until you pass probation or provide extra evidence.

Yes – but criteria tighten. Typical lender expectations:

To improve approval odds:

• Provide a letter from HR confirming the role is permanent post‑probation.

• Demonstrate a stable employment history (ideally 24 months in same sector).

• Offer a bigger deposit – 10 %+ reduces risk.

• Keep debts low to maximise affordability.

A handful of lenders will underwrite based on future income if:

• Your start date is within 90 days.

• The contract is signed and unconditional.

• You’re in a similar industry or on a clear career progression.

They’ll usually ask for:

• Contract & HR letter

• Proof of previous role/income

• Evidence of qualifications (for graduate or medical roles)

Tip: If your new salary is a big jump, delaying your application until after two payslips land can open up better affordability and lower rates.

A change from PAYE to self‑employment resets the clock. Most lenders demand 2 full years of SA302s and tax year overviews. A minority accept 1 year if:

• You have relevant industry track record (e.g. electrician leaving employment to contract solo).

• There’s clear demand or signed contracts.

• A qualified accountant projects sustainable profits.

Read our separate guide: Getting a mortgage when newly self‑employed.

Income on variable contracts must be proven via 12–24 months of payslips & P60s. Some lenders average your earnings; others take the lower of the two most recent years. See our dedicated Zero‑hour contract mortgage article for detailed criteria.