Mortgages for Teachers

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Written by:

Alison Gibson

Ascot Mortgage Expert

Last Updated:

21.08.2024

Written by:

Alison Gibson

Ascot Mortgage Expert

Last Updated:

21.08.2024

Finding the right mortgage can be challenging, especially for professionals like teachers who may have unique financial circumstances. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to remortgage, understanding the various teacher mortgage options available can help you secure the best deal. This guide will cover everything you need to know about mortgages for teachers in the UK, from how much you can borrow to the best mortgage deals tailored for educators.

Mortgages for Teacher First-Time Buyers

As a first-time buyer, securing a teacher mortgage can be an exciting but daunting process. The good news is that many lenders offer special deals and incentives for teachers, recognising the stability and importance of your profession.

Benefits for First-Time Buyer Teachers

  • Special Rates: Some lenders provide discounted interest rates specifically for teachers, helping to reduce monthly payments.
  • Government Schemes: Teachers can also benefit from government schemes like Help to Buy or Shared Ownership, which can make getting on the property ladder more affordable.
  • High LTV Mortgages: Many lenders offer high loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages for first-time buyers, meaning you could secure a mortgage with a deposit as low as 5%.

How Much Can You Borrow?

The amount you can borrow with a teachers mortgage depends on several factors, including your income, outgoings, and the lender’s criteria. Typically, lenders calculate your borrowing capacity based on a multiple of your annual salary.

Income Multiples for Teachers

  • Standard Teachers: Lenders usually offer between 4 to 4.5 times your annual salary as a mortgage. For example, if your annual salary is £30,000, you could borrow between £120,000 to £135,000.
  • High-Earning Teachers: If you have additional income from tutoring or extra responsibilities, some lenders might consider a higher income multiple, allowing you to borrow more.
  • Joint Applications: If you’re applying with a partner, lenders will consider both incomes, which could significantly increase your borrowing capacity.

Mortgage Affordability Calculator

Use this calculator to determine how much you could potentially borrow for a mortgage, based on the typical salary multiples used by most UK lenders.

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Get expert advice immediately if…

If one or more of the above apply to you, it’s important to get expert advice before making an application. The right broker can help maximise your chances of approval based on your circumstance.

How to Get a Mortgage as a Teacher

Securing a mortgage as a teacher involves several key steps:

  1. Assess Your Finances: Start by evaluating your financial situation, including your salary, savings, and any outstanding debts.
  2. Check Your Credit Score: A good credit score can improve your chances of securing a competitive mortgage rate. If your score needs improvement, take steps to address it before applying.
  3. Get a Mortgage in Principle: A mortgage in principle (MIP) gives you an idea of how much you can borrow and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer.
  4. Gather Documentation: You’ll need to provide proof of income, such as payslips and bank statements, as well as identification and proof of address.
  5. Apply for a Mortgage: Once you’ve found a property and agreed on a price, you can formally apply for a mortgage. The lender will conduct a valuation of the property and a thorough assessment of your finances before making a final offer.

Which Lenders Offer the Best Mortgage Deals for Teachers?

Several UK lenders are known for offering competitive mortgage deals for teachers. These lenders often recognise the financial stability of the teaching profession and may provide tailored products or incentives.

Top Lenders for Teacher Mortgages

  • Nationwide Building Society: Nationwide is known for offering competitive rates and flexible terms, making it a popular choice among teachers.
  • Teachers Building Society: As the name suggests, this lender specialises in mortgages for teachers and offers products designed specifically for educators.
  • Barclays: Barclays often provides special rates for public sector workers, including teachers, making it a strong contender for your mortgage needs.
  • Santander: Known for offering high LTV mortgages and competitive rates, Santander is another great option for teachers.

How Do You Qualify for a Mortgage as a Teacher?

Qualifying for a teachers mortgage generally follows the same process as any other mortgage, but some lenders may have specific criteria for educators.

Basic Qualification Criteria

  • Stable Income: Lenders prefer applicants with a stable income, and teaching is often seen as a stable profession, which can work in your favour.
  • Employment Status: Whether you’re a permanent, part-time, or supply teacher, your employment status will be considered. Permanent positions generally make it easier to qualify.
  • Credit History: A good credit history is crucial. Lenders will check your credit report to ensure you’re a reliable borrower.

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Are There Any Special Mortgage Schemes Available?

Yes, there are several schemes available that can help teachers secure a mortgage, especially if you’re a first-time buyer.

Key Mortgage Schemes for Teachers

  • Help to Buy: This government scheme offers an equity loan to help you buy a new-build property with just a 5% deposit. Teachers can benefit from this scheme to make homeownership more accessible.
  • Shared Ownership: This scheme allows you to buy a share of a property (usually between 25% and 75%) and pay rent on the remaining share. It’s an excellent option if you’re struggling to save for a full deposit.
  • Right to Buy: If you’re a council tenant, the Right to Buy scheme might allow you to purchase your home at a discounted price, making it more affordable.

Can Supply Teachers Get a Mortgage?

Supply teachers often face more challenges when applying for a mortgage due to the nature of their employment. However, getting a teacher mortgage is still possible.

Tips for Supply Teachers

  • Provide Detailed Income History: Lenders will want to see a consistent income history, so be prepared to provide documentation for the past two to three years.
  • Consider Specialist Lenders: Some lenders specialise in mortgages for those with non-standard employment, including supply teachers.
  • Work with a Broker: A mortgage broker with experience in mortgages for teachers can help you find lenders willing to offer a mortgage based on your income type.

What If You’re Newly Qualified?

Newly qualified teachers (NQTs) may also face some challenges when applying for a mortgage, but several lenders offer products specifically for NQTs.

Support for NQTs

  • Lenders Like Halifax and Skipton Building Society: These lenders are known for offering mortgages to NQTs, even if you haven’t yet started your first full-time teaching job.
  • Consider a Guarantor: If you’re struggling to qualify on your own, a guarantor mortgage might be an option, where a family member or friend guarantees your mortgage repayments.
  • Government Schemes: As with other teachers, NQTs can benefit from schemes like Help to Buy or Shared Ownership to make buying a home more affordable.

Speak to a Broker Experienced in Mortgages for Teachers

Navigating the mortgage market can be complex, especially for teachers with unique financial circumstances. Working with a mortgage broker who specialises in teachers mortgages can make the process smoother and more successful.

Why Use a Specialist Broker?

  • Tailored Advice: A specialist broker understands the challenges teachers face and can provide tailored advice to help you find the best mortgage deal.
  • Access to Special Deals: Brokers often have access to exclusive mortgage products not available on the high street, giving you more options.
  • Time-Saving: A broker can handle much of the paperwork and negotiation, saving you time and effort.

Conclusion

Securing a teachers mortgage is entirely achievable with the right approach and knowledge. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a supply teacher, or newly qualified, there are tailored mortgage options available to help you get on the property ladder. By understanding the factors that affect your borrowing capacity, exploring special mortgage schemes, and working with a specialist broker, you can find a mortgage that suits your needs and financial situation.

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