13/07/2026
The self-employed, older borrowers, first-time buyers, and workers paid in a foreign currency are among those who could benefit from a relaxation in mortgage lending rules.
The regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority, has published a consultation into its proposed mortgage rule changes . The reforms, if introduced, would give lenders greater flexibility when lending to specific groups.
It could help many more borrowers secure a mortgage, where previously they have struggled, or been locked out of the market, due to rigid lending criteria.
Mortgage advisers report that borrowing can be difficult for those with a non-standard profile or income. This can include workers with an irregular income, older borrowers, and those with slightly impaired credit (even where this dates back many years).
Under the proposed changes lenders would have greater flexibility when assessing the individual circumstances of borrowers. A lender would be able to consider a borrower’s ‘full and current’ financial picture. This would give greater flexibility over sticking to rigid rules around income, affordability and credit score.
Lenders could also develop products that better meet borrowers’ needs. This could include offering flexible repayments for example, while still providing robust protection for borrowers to ensure a loan is affordable.
Read more: https://www.pearcesargent.co.uk/article/detail/sjpp/mortgage-rule-changes-could-help-more-self-employed-and-older-borrowers