Can I get a mortgage during my probation period?
Key takeaways
You can get a mortgage during probation, but lender choice may be narrower and criteria stricter.
A permanent contract, strong credit history and larger deposit can significantly improve approval chances.
Waiting until probation ends may widen your options, but it’s not always necessary to secure a mortgage.
Can I get a mortgage during my probation period?
Yes, it is possible to get a mortgage during your probation period, but it can be more challenging. Lenders may be cautious because your employment isn’t yet fully confirmed, and they typically prefer a stable, permanent income.
Approval often depends on your overall financial profile, the type of mortgage, and the lender’s specific criteria. With the right preparation and supporting evidence, some borrowers can still secure a mortgage while on probation.
Why do lenders care if I’m on probation?
Lenders care if you’re on probation because your job status is still provisional, making your income less certain.
They assess affordability and risk, so temporary or unproven employment may make them cautious about approving a mortgage. Stable, permanent income gives them confidence you can meet repayments reliably.
What do mortgage lenders look at when I’m on probation?
Mortgage lenders are keen to spot elements that might make handing out a loan more risky. Checks usually include:
Job type and contract: Permanent roles are preferred and temporary or short-term contracts may be riskier.
Probation length and completion: Shorter or nearing-completion probation periods can reassure lenders.
Income stability: Lenders want to see consistent earnings and reliable future income.
Previous employment history: A solid work record can offset concerns about a new role.
Credit history: Lenders check your credit file for missed payments, defaults or CCJs.
Deposit size: Larger deposits reduce lender risk and can improve chances of approval.
Affordability: Lenders assess whether your income can cover mortgage repayments alongside other financial commitments.
What can I do to improve my chances of getting approved while on probation?
While being on probation can make lenders cautious, there are practical steps you can take to strengthen your application:
Save a larger deposit: Reduces the lender’s risk and may make them more willing to approve your mortgage
Keep credit in good order: Ensure bills are paid on time and avoid taking on new debts to keep your credit rating high.
Provide proof of income: Payslips, bank statements, or employment contracts can reassure lenders of your earnings, even if you’re in your probationary period.
Show employment stability: Highlight previous consistent work history to demonstrate reliability.
Use a mortgage broker: Experienced brokers can match you with lenders more likely to consider probationary applicants.
Reduce existing debts: Lowering debt-to-income ratio improves affordability and strengthens your application.
Be transparent: Disclose your probationary status and any relevant circumstances honestly to avoid issues later.
Will my choice of lender be more limited if I’m on probation?
Yes, being on probation can limit your choice of lender. Some lenders have strict requirements for stable, permanent employment and may be unwilling to approve applications from probationary employees. However, other lenders – particularly specialist or high-street banks familiar with probationary applicants – may still consider your application if you can demonstrate a strong income, good credit history, and a sizeable deposit.
Which lenders accept applicants in probation?
Each lender’s criteria vary, but mainstream and building society lenders known to consider probationary applicants include Nationwide, Halifax, HSBC, TSB, Virgin Money and specialist societies like Teachers Building Society.
However, there might be conditions such as accepting your basic income only (not including bonuses) or potential lenders may only complete the deal once the probation has ended. Always check with a broker or the lender for up‑to‑date criteria before applying.
How can a broker improve approval chances?
A mortgage broker can improve your approval chances by identifying lenders that are willing to consider probationary employees, presenting your application with supporting evidence, and advising on how to strengthen your financial profile.
They can also check that all documents are accurate, highlight your strengths to lenders, and help navigate any potential issues, giving you a better chance of approval than applying alone.
Does probation affect remortgaging too?
Yes, being on probation can affect remortgaging, particularly if you’re switching to a new lender. They will reassess your income and employment status just like a new application.
However, if you’re staying with your current lender on a product transfer, checks are often lighter and probation may have less impact.
What documents will I need to apply for a mortgage during probation?
Applying for a mortgage during probation requires much the same documentation as a standard mortgage application.You’ll typically need:
Proof of identity: Passport or driving licence
Proof of address: Recent utility bill or council tax statement
Recent payslips: Usually the last three months (or since starting your job)
Employment contract: Showing your role, salary and permanent status
Bank statements: Typically three to six months
P60: If available, from your previous employer
Proof of deposit: Savings statements or gifted deposit letter
Details of existing debts: Credit commitments and monthly outgoings
Personal Finance Expert
Worth exploring
Applying for a mortgage while on probation is certainly possible, but timing can make a difference. If you’re able to wait until your probation period ends, you may have access to a wider choice of lenders and potentially better rates – while also giving yourself more time to strengthen your deposit. That said, property markets move quickly. If your ideal home is available now, it can still be worth exploring your options rather than missing out.
Why compare mortgage options with MoneySuperMarket?
MoneySuperMarket makes it simple to explore a wide range of mortgage deals in one place. By entering a few details about your income, deposit and property plans, you can quickly compare example quotes from multiple lenders and see what could be available to you.
Our comparison tool helps you narrow down options to suit your budget, and our mortgage calculators let you check monthly repayments and overall costs before you apply.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I fail probation after my mortgage has been approved?
If your mortgage has already completed, the lender won’t automatically reassess your employment – but you remain responsible for keeping up repayments. If you’re struggling, contact your lender immediately to discuss support options.
Will being on a fixed-term contract harm my chances of getting a mortgage?
It can make things more complex, as lenders prefer income they see as ongoing and secure. However, many will consider fixed-term contractors if you can show a track record of continuous work or contract renewals. Our guide on mortgages for contractors [Link to new guide once live] explains more.
Can a joint application help?
Yes. Applying with a partner who has stable employment and income can strengthen affordability and reduce the lender’s overall risk.
Do lenders require probation to be completed?
Some do, but not all. Certain lenders will consider applicants during probation, particularly if the contract is permanent.
Should I wait until my probation ends before applying?
If possible, waiting can improve your options and reduce scrutiny, but it’s not always necessary.
Does job role matter when trying to get a mortgage on probation?
It can. Roles in stable sectors such as healthcare, education, the civil service or established corporate positions may reassure lenders, particularly where there’s strong demand for skills. By contrast, jobs in commission-only sales, hospitality, construction or short-term project work may be seen as less predictable and therefore higher risk.
Does employment history matter more than probation?
Often, yes. A solid, consistent work history can offset concerns about being new in your current role.
Are permanent and contract roles treated differently?
Yes. Permanent contracts are generally viewed more favourably, while fixed-term or zero-hours contracts may face stricter criteria.
How long do you need to be in your new role?
There’s no fixed rule, but some lenders prefer at least one to three months in the role, while others will consider applicants from day one with a signed contract.
Can I get a mortgage with one payslip?
It’s possible but uncommon. Most lenders prefer at least two or three payslips, though some may accept one with a contract.
What if my probation period is 6–9 months?
Longer probation periods may make lenders more cautious, but strong income, a good credit record and a sizeable deposit can still help your case.
Can I take advantage of Government homebuying schemes if I'm on probation?
Yes, being on probation doesn’t automatically exclude you from schemes such as Shared Ownership or First Homes [Linked to Gov site, but check if MSM has a guide to First Homes scheme], but you’ll still need to meet the lender’s affordability and employment criteria.
Author
Tim Heming
Personal Finance Expert
Tim Heming is a journalist and editor who has written about personal finance for national newspapers and consumer websites for 15 years. Tim enjoys providing no-nonsense information to help consumers...
Reviewer
Alan Cairns
Senior Content Editor
Alan helps MoneySuperMarket break down complicated financial topics into plain English, to help you find the right deals. When he’s not writing or editing you might find him cycling the South Downs.
