Can I Get a Mortgage with a Default?

When you’re saving up to buy your first home, seeing a default on your credit report can feel like a major setback. But having a default doesn’t always mean you can’t get a mortgage - it just means you’ll need to show lenders that you’re financially back on track.

 

What Is a Default?

A default happens when you miss several payments and your lender closes the account due to non-payment. It stays on your credit file for six years and can damage your credit score, which may make some mortgage lenders cautious. However, lenders don’t just look at the fact that a default exists - they also consider your current financial behaviour.

 

What Mortgage Lenders Look At

1. How Old the Default Is

Older defaults usually have less impact. A default from five years ago is likely to be viewed more favourably than one from the last 12 months.

2. Whether the Default Has Been Paid

If you’ve paid off the default, that shows responsibility and can improve your chances with some lenders.

3. The Default Amount

Smaller defaults, such as a missed phone bill, may carry less weight than larger debts like unpaid loans or credit cards.

4. Why the Default Happened

Lenders will consider the reason behind the default. A one-off mistake is easier to explain than repeated missed payments. They’ll want to see that your financial habits have improved since then.

 

Can You Still Get a Mortgage After a Default?

Yes, it’s possible - especially if you can prove that your financial situation has changed for the better.

This is where Klink can help. Klink connects securely to your bank accounts and gives you a clear view of your spending and saving patterns - the same way a lender would see them. If you’ve had a default in the past, Klink helps you understand where to cut back, how to save more, and how to build healthier financial habits.

 

How Klink Supports Your Mortgage Journey

Klink’s Mortgage Readiness Check uses your actual financial behaviour - not just your credit score - to give a personalised view of how ready you are to apply for a mortgage. No guesswork, just real insights.

You can also set a Home Goal in the app, allowing you to track your deposit savings and monitor your progress every month.

 

What If High Street Lenders Say No?

Even if mainstream lenders turn you down, there are still options. Specialist mortgage lenders work with people who’ve had defaults, CCJs, or missed payments in the past. These lenders assess your full financial picture, not just your credit history.

Be aware that:

• You may need a ****larger deposit

• Interest rates may be slightly higher

• Lenders will want proof that you’re now managing your money responsibly

 

Tips for Improving Your Chances

If you’re applying for a mortgage with a default on your file, here’s how to boost your chances:

• Pay all your bills on time

• Avoid taking on new debt

• Save as much as possible for a deposit

• Don’t make multiple credit applications at once

• Use tools like Klink to monitor and improve your spending habits

 

Final Thoughts

Getting a mortgage with a default on your credit report isn’t always straightforward - but it’s far from impossible. With the right tools, smart financial habits, and support from apps like Klink, you can prove to lenders that you’re ready for homeownership.

Download Klink today and take the first step towards owning your home - no matter what your credit history looks like.