Being self-employed shouldn’t stop you from owning your dream home. While it’s true that mortgage lenders can be stricter with self-employed applicants, Empire Mortgages specialises in helping people just like you. Whether you’re a sole trader, a limited company director, or a freelancer with fluctuating income, we provide tailored advice to help you find the best mortgage deals available across the whole market.
Unlike some mortgage brokers who rely on just a handful of lenders, we search the entire market, including specialist lenders who understand the unique challenges self-employed people face. With our expert advice and hands-on support, you’ll benefit from a clear, stress-free process from start to finish.
When you work for yourself, lenders often view your income as less predictable than a salaried employee. This means they may require more paperwork and apply stricter affordability criteria. Here’s why:
Irregular or Fluctuating Income – Many self-employed people experience seasonal highs and lows or project-based earnings. Lenders prefer steady, predictable income streams.
Complex Income Structures – If you’re a limited company director, lenders might look at your salary alone and ignore dividends or retained profits unless explained properly.
Accounts Requirements – While employed applicants may only need payslips, you’ll often be asked for 2-3 years of accounts or SA302s. Luckily, we know lenders who will accept just 1 year of trading history.
Detailed Affordability Checks – Lenders don’t just assess your income—they’ll look at your outgoings, credit commitments, and how sustainable your business is.
The good news: We know exactly which lenders to approach and how to package your application in the most attractive way to help maximise your chances of success.
Whole-of-Market Mortgage Advice – We’re not tied to banks or building societies—we work for YOU.
Self-Employed Mortgage Experts – With years of experience, we’ve helped business owners, freelancers, and contractors across multiple industries.
Transparent, Friendly Service – No jargon, just clear advice that makes sense.
Flexible & Accessible – Evening or weekend appointments available via video call, phone, or face-to-face.
Don’t settle for second-best. Choose mortgage advisers who specialise in helping self-employed clients like you succeed.
What makes us different? We don’t just fill in forms—we build your case and actively work to get your mortgage approved. Here’s how we help:
Comprehensive Financial Review – We go beyond the basics to help explain your income clearly to lenders, identifying strengths in your financial profile.
Access to Specialist Lenders – Some of the best deals for self-employed borrowers come from smaller or specialist lenders who don’t advertise on the high street. We know exactly where to look.
Expert Packaging of Applications – We ensure your paperwork clearly shows why you’re a suitable borrower—even if your accounts don’t tell the full story.
Complete End-to-End Support – From explaining paperwork, to chasing lenders, liaising with solicitors, and keeping you informed, we do everything so you don’t have to.
Don’t let being self-employed hold you back from your next home or investment property. With Empire Mortgages, you’ll get clear advice, tailored solutions, and a team that genuinely cares about helping you succeed. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Typically 2-3 years, but some lenders accept 1 year of accounts.
It’s possible. We’ll assess your individual case and find lenders willing to help.
Yes, with the right lender. We’ll present your case properly.
It can, but many lenders take an average over 2-3 years. We help you highlight the strongest case.
Refer a Friend Scheme
Recommend a friend who is new to Empire Mortgages and if they then take out their mortgage with us, you’ll each receive £50 worth of vouchers.
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The guidance provided within this website is subject to the UK regulatory regime and is therefore primarily targeted at consumers based in the UK.
Empire Mortgages Ltd is an Appointed Representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of TenetLime Ltd. TenetLime Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Tenet Lime Ltd is entered on the Financial Services Register (www.fca.org.uk/register) under reference 150643.
Empire Mortgages Ltd may charge a fee for mortgage advice. The amount of the fee will depend on your circumstances and will be discussed and agreed with you at the earliest opportunity. Our typical fee is £295 payable on receipt of a full mortgage offer.
Registered in Scotland under reference SC545434
Registered office address: Unit 9, Flexspace, Pitreavie Business Park, Dunfermline, KY11 8UU
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE
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