There isn’t a single maximum that applies to everyone. How much you can borrow is determined by lender policy, affordability stress-testing, the size of the loan, the loan-to-value (LTV), and the property you’re buying or remortgaging. Two lenders can assess the same applicant differently, especially where income is complex.
Borrowing capacity is typically influenced by: how your income is treated (salary, bonus, commission, dividends, partnership income, rental income, overseas income), your existing commitments (other mortgages, loans, school fees, maintenance, credit), and the lender’s affordability model and stress rate. Large loans can also be subject to tiering, where maximum LTV reduces above certain property values or loan sizes.
In high net worth cases, the “maximum” figure can shift significantly depending on lender selection. Some lenders average variable income; others take a percentage. Some assess directors using salary and dividends only; others can consider share of net profit. Foreign currency income may be discounted. Interest-only borrowing may be possible but requires a credible repayment strategy supported by evidence.
The most reliable way to find your true maximum is to model your profile against lenders with the right appetite for your income type, loan size, and property type — rather than relying on a generic calculator that assumes a simple payslip profile.
Hearthstone Mortgages is a trading name of Hearthstone Advisory Limited (Company Number 10563329) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA Reference Number 945282).
Registered office: Europa House, Marsham Way, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, SL9 8BQ.
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THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY.
Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
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