BuyReady

How much can I borrow?

Most lenders cap a mortgage at around 4.5× your income, with some offering more. See your realistic range, and exactly when the higher first-time buyer schemes apply.

You could borrow roughly

£0

Based on 5× income of £0.

Cautious4.5× income
£0
up to £0 home

What most lenders offer as standard.

Typical5× income
£0
up to £0 home

Achievable with many lenders on a good profile.

Maximum5.5× income
£0
up to £0 home

Specialist first-time buyer schemes only — see below.

About that 5.5× maximum

Borrowing 5.5× your income usually comes from specialist first-time buyer schemes (like Nationwide's Helping Hand). They typically need:

  • all applicants to be first-time buyers
  • a minimum income (often around £35k sole / £55k joint)
  • a 5- or 10-year fixed rate
  • certain jobs may qualify for more (some lenders)

Treat it as a best case, not a given. A broker can tell you who'll actually lend it.

A guide only. Lenders also look at your spending and credit history, so your actual offer may differ.

How we worked this out

What we assumed

  • Most lenders cap around 4.5× your income; some stretch to 5× or 5.5× for stronger profiles or specific first-time-buyer schemes.
  • Based on your income of £0.
  • Your deposit (£0) is added on top to estimate the price you could reach.

Lenders also weigh your credit history, debts and regular outgoings — this is a guide, not a lending decision.

Where the numbers come from

Last checked 15 June 2026. These are guidance figures, not a quote or financial advice.

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