How Much Can I Borrow for a Mortgage?
The answer depends on which lender you ask. Two banks looking at the same salary can offer amounts that differ by tens of thousands of pounds. We checked 60+ UK lenders to show you the real range.
Borrowing Range by Salary
The table below shows the lowest and highest mortgage offers we found across major UK lenders for each salary level, based on a single applicant with no significant debts.
Based on each lender's affordability calculator, April 2026. Single employed applicant, 25-year repayment term, no additional debts. Figures are for illustration only — your actual offer depends on your full circumstances.
Why Is There Such a Big Gap?
Every UK mortgage lender runs its own affordability model. The differences come down to three main factors:
Income Multiples
Most lenders cap borrowing at 4 to 4.5 times your annual salary. But some stretch to 5x, 5.5x, or even 6.5x for certain professionals or higher earners. That single variable alone can add tens of thousands to your maximum loan.
Stress Testing
Lenders must check that you could still afford repayments if interest rates rose. They each use different stress rates, typically between 6% and 8.5%. A lower stress rate means the lender can offer you more.
Enhanced Multiples
Several lenders offer higher income multiples for first-time buyers, professionals (doctors, accountants, solicitors), or borrowers with larger deposits. These enhanced schemes can significantly boost the amount you are offered.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I borrow based on my salary?
Most lenders use income multiples of 4-4.5x your gross annual salary. Some specialist lenders go up to 5.5x for certain professions or with larger deposits. Our calculator checks 60+ lenders to show you the full range.
What income multiple do mortgage lenders use?
Standard income multiples range from 4x to 5.5x salary. The multiple depends on the lender, your deposit size, employment type, and whether you are fixing for 5+ years. Higher multiples are typically available with deposits of 15% or more.
Does overtime and bonus count towards a mortgage?
Most lenders accept overtime, bonus, and commission income, but they calculate it differently. Some use 50% of the average, others use 100%. Our calculator accounts for each lender's specific policy.
How much can I borrow with a joint mortgage?
With a joint application, most lenders combine both incomes when calculating affordability. This typically increases your maximum borrowing significantly. Some lenders are more generous with joint applications than others.
Does my deposit size affect how much I can borrow?
Yes — a larger deposit can unlock higher income multiples. Many lenders increase their maximum from 4.5x to 5.5x salary when your deposit is 15% or more, because the lower loan-to-value reduces their risk.
Find Out Your Personal Borrowing Range
The figures above are based on a standard scenario. Your actual range depends on your full financial picture. Check 60+ lenders in minutes with no credit search.
Start Your Free ComparisonFigures are estimates based on a standard scenario. Last updated April 2026.
