Yes, you can — but the amount you owe will affect how much you can borrow.
Credit card debt doesn’t automatically stop you from getting a mortgage. But it can reduce how much lenders are willing to offer — and in some cases, it could lead to a decline if your affordability looks stretched.
If you’re applying for a mortgage with outstanding card balances, it’s all about how well you manage them.
💳 Will Credit Card Debt Affect My Mortgage Application?
Yes — but not all debt is treated equally. Lenders are more concerned with:
- The monthly payments you make
- Your credit utilisation (how much of your limit you use)
- Your repayment history (any missed payments or defaults)
💡 Someone with a £2,000 balance on a £10,000 limit who pays on time will look better than someone maxed out with missed payments.
🧮 How Do Lenders Factor It In?
They’ll deduct your monthly card repayments from your available income when calculating how much you can afford to borrow.
If you’re only making minimum payments, lenders may assume those debts will take a long time to clear — which could raise concerns.
🧠 How to Improve Your Position Before Applying
✅ Pay more than the minimum each month
✅ Reduce your balances where possible
✅ Avoid using credit in the 3–6 months before applying
✅ Check your credit report for accuracy
✅ Don’t apply for any new credit (like balance transfers or Klarna)
❌ Should You Clear All Your Debt Before Applying?
Not necessarily. If paying off your credit cards would drain your deposit or savings, that could hurt more than help.
A broker can help you find the right balance between reducing debt and preserving affordability.
💬 Get Mortgage Advice That Considers Real Life
Credit card debt is common — and it doesn’t mean you can’t buy a home. I’ll help you find a lender that takes a realistic view and give you honest advice on how to strengthen your application.
✅ Honest affordability checks
✅ Access to flexible lenders
✅ Advice on reducing debt without wrecking your deposit