Most lenders offer between 4 and 4.5 times your annual income. Some may stretch to 5 or 5.5 times for high earners or certain professions. Use our calculator above to get an estimate based on your income. Your actual borrowing power also depends on your deposit, debts, credit history, and monthly outgoings.

Lenders use two main tests. First, the income multiple, which typically caps borrowing at 4 to 4.5 times your salary. Second, a stress test that checks whether you could still afford payments if interest rates rose. They also review your monthly outgoings, existing debts, and living costs to ensure you can comfortably manage repayments.

Lenders consider your basic salary as the starting point. Most also include regular overtime, bonuses, and commission, though often at a reduced percentage (typically 50% to 100% depending on how consistent it is). Self-employed applicants usually need two to three years of accounts or tax returns. Additional income from second jobs, rental properties, or investments may also count.

A larger deposit means you need to borrow less, which reduces your loan-to-value ratio. This often unlocks better interest rates and can make lenders more comfortable offering higher income multiples. Most lenders require a minimum 5% to 10% deposit, though 15% or more significantly improves your options.

Yes. Lenders look at your total monthly debt commitments including credit cards, car finance, student loans, and personal loans. These reduce the amount they're willing to lend because they eat into your disposable income. Paying down debts before applying can increase your borrowing power.

Usually, yes. With a joint mortgage, lenders consider both incomes, which typically increases your maximum borrowing. Most lenders apply the same 4 to 4.5 times multiple to your combined income. Both applicants' credit histories and debts are also assessed, so one partner's financial issues can affect the joint application.

Most lenders include bonuses, overtime, and commission, but often at a discounted rate. If your bonus is guaranteed and consistent, lenders may count 100%. Variable bonuses are typically counted at 50% to 60%. You'll usually need to show two to three years of history to prove the income is reliable.

Your credit score affects whether you're approved and what rates you're offered, but it doesn't directly change the income multiple calculation. However, a poor credit history may limit you to specialist lenders who offer lower multiples or require larger deposits. Checking your credit report before applying helps you fix errors and improve your position.

Calculators give you a useful estimate based on standard lending criteria. They're a good starting point for understanding your budget. However, every lender has different criteria, and your actual offer depends on a full assessment of your income, outgoings, credit history, and the property itself. Treat calculator results as guidance, not a guarantee.

Pay down existing debts to reduce your monthly commitments. Save a larger deposit to improve your loan-to-value ratio. Ensure your income is fully documented, including bonuses and overtime. Check your credit report and fix any errors. Consider a joint application if you have a partner. Some professions like doctors, lawyers, and accountants qualify for enhanced multiples with certain lenders.