What to do (and what to avoid) to give your application the best chance of success.
Applying for a mortgage can feel like navigating a maze – full of forms, financial jargon, and fine print. But with the right prep (and a few insider tips), it doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing.
At HLC Mortgages, we guide people through this process every day, and we’ve seen what works – and what causes unnecessary delays or declines.
So, here are 10 essential do’s and don’ts to help you feel confident and prepared when it’s time to apply for your mortgage.
✅ 1. DO: Get Your Documents in Order Early
Lenders need to see evidence of your income, spending, and identity. The sooner you gather everything, the smoother things will go.
Typical documents include:
- 3 months’ bank statements
- Payslips or accounts (if self-employed)
- Proof of ID and address
- P60 (if employed)
- Credit report
Having this ready shows lenders you’re serious and organised – and avoids unnecessary delays later down the line.
❌ 2. DON’T: Make Major Financial Changes Before Applying
Lenders like stability. If you switch jobs, take out a car loan, or spend big on your credit card just before applying, it can raise concerns.
Try to avoid:
- Changing employment (unless it’s unavoidable)
- Taking on new debt
- Making large or unexplained deposits
- Closing down old credit accounts
Keeping things steady in the lead-up to your application helps paint a clear, reliable picture of your finances.
✅ 3. DO: Check Your Credit Report
Before any lender does a credit check, you should take a look first. This gives you time to fix any errors or flag up anything unusual.
You can check your credit report for free with:
- Experian
- Equifax
- TransUnion
- CheckMyFile (which shows all three major agencies)
•By clicking the link, you will need to register your details with Checkmyfile and enter into a free 30-day trial period. This will allow enough time for you to register your information and download your report. You are free to cancel this trial period at any time during the 30-day free trial period without penalty. Should you fail or choose not to do so, Checkmyfile will charge you a subscription fee of £14.99 per month thereafter.
•To get the best from this service, please ensure you register all of your primary and/or associated addresses within the last 6 years.
•HLC Mortgages will receive a payment of £12 per free trial entered into via the link to Checkmyfile’s website. This is payable whether you cancel the trial period or not.
•It should be noted that lenders will not be assessing the report produced from Checkmyfile and will undertake their own research and assessment.
* By clicking the link you’re departing from the regulatory website of HLC Mortgages. Neither HLC Mortgages nor Quilter Financial Planning are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within their site. Details of how to unsubscribe or cancel this service, is available directly from the Checkmyfile website under their T&C’s which states “If you wish to cancel your subscription, please log in and send us a Secure Message at any time, email us, or call us on our Freephone telephone number 0800 086 9360 during normal office hours. In all cases we will provide you with a cancellation reference code in confirmation.
Look out for incorrect addresses, outdated accounts, or missed payments you weren’t aware of. A clean, accurate report is key to getting approved.
❌ 4. DON’T: Apply to Multiple Lenders at Once
It might feel like playing the field is smart, but too many applications in a short time can damage your credit score – and make lenders nervous.
Each mortgage application leaves a footprint. Multiple footprints in a short time look like desperation, even if that’s not the case.
Instead, work with a whole-of-market broker (like us at HLC Mortgages!) who can match you with the right lender from the start.
✅ 5. DO: Budget Beyond the Deposit
It’s easy to focus on your deposit, but remember: there are other costs involved in buying a home.
Budget for:
- Solicitor fees
- Valuation/survey costs
- Stamp duty (if applicable)
- Lender arrangement fees
- Moving costs
Being financially prepared reassures lenders and reduces stress for you down the line.
❌ 6. DON’T: Overspend in the Months Leading Up
Your recent bank statements will be under the microscope. Lenders want to see that you live within your means and can handle a monthly mortgage payment.
Avoid:
- High levels of credit card spending
- Gambling transactions
- Unpaid overdrafts
- Buy-now-pay-later deals stacking up
You don’t need to live like a monk, but do keep things sensible and consistent.
✅ 7. DO: Be Honest About Your Circumstances
It might be tempting to round up your income or leave out a loan repayment, but trust us – it’ll come back to bite.
Lenders will check everything, and inconsistencies can lead to declined applications or delays. It’s far better to be upfront from the start.
A good broker will know how to present your case in the best possible light – without stretching the truth.
❌ 8. DON’T: Assume You Won’t Be Accepted
So many people talk themselves out of applying because they assume they’ll be rejected – maybe due to a past credit blip, self-employment, or a small deposit.
But here’s the thing: every lender is different. Some are more flexible than others, and many specialise in helping people with less-than-perfect circumstances.
The key is finding the right lender – not just the obvious ones. That’s where a broker comes in handy.
✅ 9. DO: Ask Questions (Even the ‘Silly’ Ones)
Mortgages can be complex, and you’re not expected to know all the lingo or rules.
Whether it’s “What is an Agreement in Principle?” or “Should I go fixed or tracker?” – don’t be afraid to ask. That’s what we’re here for.
There’s no such thing as a silly question, and it’s better to ask early than get caught out later.
❌ 10. DON’T: Go It Alone If You’re Unsure
We say this with love – but if you’re not 100% confident navigating the mortgage world solo, don’t risk it.
A good mortgage broker will:
- Save you time and stress
- Increase your chances of approval
- Help you avoid mistakes
- Handle the paperwork
- Match you with a lender that fits your goals
Think of us as your mortgage sidekick. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Final Thoughts
A successful mortgage application isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about putting your best foot forward. By following these 10 do’s and don’ts, you’ll give yourself the strongest chance of approval and avoid the common pitfalls that trip people up.
If you’re ready to get started – or just want to chat through your options – we’d love to help.
Ready to apply without the stress?
Get in touch with HLC Mortgages today – friendly advice, zero jargon, and support every step of the way.