Yes — but you’ll need to be upfront, realistic, and smart about your lender choice.
If you’ve had a default on your credit report, getting a mortgage isn’t impossible — far from it. But you’ll need to go about it differently than someone with a spotless record.
The key is understanding how lenders view defaults, how recent or serious they are, and which specialist options might work in your favour.
💳 What Is a Default?
A default happens when you’ve missed payments and your lender closes the account — usually after 3–6 months of arrears.
Defaults stay on your credit report for 6 years, even if they’re fully settled.
🧠 Can I Still Get a Mortgage with a Default?
Yes — especially if:
- The default is over 12–24 months old
- It was for a small amount
- You’ve since rebuilt your credit
- You can explain the situation (e.g. illness, redundancy)
Specialist lenders look beyond just the credit score — they assess the story behind it.
🧮 How Do Lenders View Defaults?
✅ More favourable if:
- It was a one-off issue
- It’s satisfied
- It’s non-priority debt (e.g. phone bill or catalogue)
❌ More risky if:
- It’s recent
- It’s linked to a mortgage, rent, or utility bill
- It’s unpaid
Some lenders won’t accept defaults at all — but others specialise in bad credit mortgages.
💷 How to Strengthen Your Application
✅ Save a bigger deposit (15–25% if possible)
✅ Check your credit file for accuracy (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)
✅ Avoid new credit applications
✅ Work with a broker who knows bad credit lenders
💬 Need Help Getting a Mortgage with a Default?
A default doesn’t define your future — and it certainly doesn’t rule out buying a home. I’ll help you navigate lender criteria, explain your options clearly, and improve your chances of getting approved.
✅ Honest feedback on your eligibility
✅ Access to lenders who consider defaults
✅ Guidance on documents and next steps