Will getting a new job affect my mortgage application?
Changing jobs won’t automatically derail your mortgage plans, but it can make lenders look closer at your income security. Most want to see at least three months in your new role (some up to 12). If you’re on probation, self‑employed or switching industries, expect extra questions, bigger deposits or alternative evidence. When in doubt, speak to a broker early.
Key Takeaways
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Tell your lender immediately if your job changes after you’ve applied; hiding it risks the offer being withdrawn.
Why lenders care about your employment status
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?
Applying for a mortgage when you’re about to change jobs
If you haven’t applied yet and a job move is on the horizon:
Check timeframes. Can you delay the mortgage 3–6 months until you’re settled? Waiting usually means lower rates.
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.
Line up paperwork early – your signed employment contract, HR letter confirming salary and start date, plus a brief explanation if you’re changing industries.
Speak to a broker. We’ll match you with lenders that accept ‘day‑one’ income or consider future salary.
Changing jobs after you’ve submitted an application
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.
Can I get a mortgage while on probation?
Yes – but criteria tighten. Typical lender expectations:
Probation status | Mainstream lenders | Specialist lenders |
---|---|---|
< 3 months in role | Rarely accepted; need impeccable credit & 15 %+ deposit | Some accept with HR letter & 10 %+ deposit |
3–6 months | 50 % of lenders consider | Widely accepted |
Passed probation / permanent | Standard criteria apply |
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.
Using future salary: can a signed contract count?
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.
What if I’m becoming self‑employed?
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.
Zero‑hour, agency or fixed‑term contracts
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.
FAQs
Usually not until you have 6–12 months’ history. Some average the first three payslips; others wait for a full year.
If timing allows, yes. Completing your mortgage under your current role removes uncertainty and expands your lender options.
Yes, if the lender deems the new role riskier or pay lower. Many re‑check employment before completion.
Not necessarily. Rates are product‑based, but fewer lenders mean less competition, so your cheapest option might be fractionally higher.
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