First-Time Buyer Mortgage with CCJs

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First-Time Buyer Mortgage with CCJs

Joe Nicholls explains how the mortgage process works for first-time buyers with CCJs.

Can I get a mortgage as a first-time buyer if I have CCJs?

Yes, it is possible to get a mortgage as a first-time buyer with County Court Judgments.
While some lenders may decline applications with recent or unsatisfied CCJs, there are
dozens of lenders that specifically consider borrowers with adverse credit.

Do my CCJs need to be satisfied or paid off to get a first-time buyer mortgage?

For a first-time buyer mortgage, having your CCJs satisfied is strongly recommended and
significantly improves your chances, showing financial responsibility; however, some
lenders might consider applications with unsatisfied CCJs, especially if they are
old, small, or you have a larger deposit, but options will be limited and rates higher. Settling
them makes you a much more attractive borrower, but always speak to a mortgage adviser
first, as paying them off without advice can sometimes hinder things.

How old do my CCJs need to be before I can apply for a first-time buyer mortgage?

There is no single minimum age for a CCJ before you can apply for a first-time buyer
mortgage, as eligibility depends on the lender’s risk appetite. However, the age of the CCJ significantly impacts the choice of lenders, along with the health of the whole credit profile and the required deposit.

How soon can I apply for a first-time buyer mortgage once my CCJs are settled?

You can apply for a first-time buyer mortgage immediately after your CCJs are settled.
However, your choice of lenders and the quality of the interest rates will depend heavily on
how long you wait and the size of your deposit.

Does the value or number of CCJs affect my chances of being approved for a first-time buyer mortgage?

Yes, the value and number of CCJs significantly affect your chances of being approved for a
first-time buyer mortgage. Lenders use these factors, along with the age of the CCJ and your
deposit size, to assess the level of risk you present as a borrower.

Are government schemes available to help first-time buyers who have CCJs?

Yes, government schemes are available to first-time buyers who have CCJs. Having a CCJ
does not automatically disqualify you from using them, but your eligibility will ultimately
depend on the specific lender’s criteria and whether they are willing to offer a mortgage
alongside the scheme.

Will I need a bigger deposit for a first-time buyer mortgage because of my credit history and CCJs?

Potentially, yes. While some first-time buyers with adverse credit history, such as CCJs, can
still secure a mortgage with a 5% deposit, your specific credit history, and the details of the
credit history and CCJs will determine if a lender requires a larger amount, often between
10% and 30%.

Will I have to pay a higher interest rate as a first-time buyer because of my CCJs?

Yes, as a first-time buyer with CCJs, you will likely have to pay a higher interest rate on your
mortgage. Mainstream high street lenders are generally reluctant to offer mortgages to
applicants with CCJs, which means you will likely need to use a lender who
charges more to offset the perceived higher risk.

Speak To an Expert
We can advise how much you can borrow, find the most suitable lender and have that Decision in Principle in place. Then, when you do make an offer on a property, you’re ready to go.

Can I remortgage later on to get a better deal once my credit improves?

Yes, you can remortgage later on to get a better deal once your credit improves. A higher
credit score makes you a less risky borrower in the eyes of lenders, which typically gives you
access to a wider range of competitive mortgage products with lower interest rates.

Can I improve my chances by applying with a guarantor or a co-applicant?

Applying for a mortgage with a guarantor or co-applicant can significantly improve your
chances of approval if you have a CCJ. This is usually on a Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor
basis. While a CCJ is a serious red flag to lenders, involving a third party with a stable financial background can mitigate their risk.

How can a mortgage broker help me with my first-time buyer mortgage application?

A mortgage broker can help you navigate the complexities of finding the right mortgage for your circumstances while working with the chosen lender to satisfy any requirements they
may have to get you your first home.

Key Takeaways:

  • It is possible for first-time buyers to secure a mortgage even with County Court Judgments (CCJs), thanks to lenders who consider borrowers with adverse credit.
  • Having CCJs satisfied (paid off) is highly recommended and significantly improves the chances of approval, though some lenders may consider old or small, unsatisfied CCJs, often with limited options and higher rates.
  • The value, number, and age of the CCJs, alongside the size of the deposit, are key factors lenders use to assess the level of risk when considering an application.
  • Borrowers with CCJs will likely face higher interest rates as they will need to apply to lenders who charge more than mainstream, high street lenders to offset the perceived higher risk.
  • Applying with a guarantor or co-applicant can significantly increase the chances of approval, and a better deal with lower interest rates can be secured later by remortgaging once the credit score improves.

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