For years, self-employed individuals have faced an uphill battle when applying for mortgages.  Stricter lending criteria, higher rates, and extensive documentation requirements have made homeownership feel out of reach for many freelancers, contractors, and business owners. 

But 2026 is bringing welcome change, and working with the right mortgage broker can make all the difference.

Why self-employed borrowers need expert support

The mortgage market has historically viewed self-employed income as higher risk. Fluctuating earnings and complex profitability assessments have meant many self-employed workers were either declined or offered less favourable terms than their employed counterparts.

Rob Starr MBE, CEO of Seico Mortgages, explains: 

"Self-employed clients often have strong, sustainable incomes, but presenting this to lenders in the right way is crucial. We've seen capable borrowers rejected simply because they approached the wrong lender or didn't structure their application effectively. That's where specialist broker support becomes invaluable."

What’s the opportunity in 2026?

Mortgage rates have been steadily declining, and lenders are relaxing their affordability criteria. Some will now accept the latest years accounts for established businesses, or first year's accounts for new businesses, with greater flexibility around income calculation. Now considering net profits, factoring back in pension contributions, salary and dividends.

However, not all lenders have moved at the same pace. Navigating this inconsistent landscape without expert guidance can mean missing out on better rates or facing unnecessary rejections.

{{mortgages}}
‍

How a mortgage broker makes the difference

A specialist mortgage broker can identify which lenders will view your specific income structure favourably before you apply, avoiding multiple time-consuming applications that could ultimately damage your credit score.

Brokers understand the nuances of different self-employment types and know exactly how to present your financial position to maximise approval chances. They also have access to exclusive rates not available on the high street, potentially saving thousands over the mortgage term.

"We don't just find mortgages; we build cases," adds Rob Starr. "For self-employed clients, that means looking at the full picture of their finances and matching them with lenders who genuinely understand their business model and varied income. The right lender match can mean the difference between a declined application and a competitive mortgage offer, usually in a fraction of the time when compared to applying direct."

Take action in 2026

If you've been putting off homeownership or remortgaging plans due to self-employment or fluctuating earnings, now is the time to act. With improving conditions and expert broker support, the mortgage you thought was out of reach may be more accessible than you think.

‍