This page is for general guidance only and does not constitute regulated mortgage advice. A full personal assessment of your circumstances is required before any recommendation is made.
If you are (or have been) in an IVA and are thinking of a mortgage, you may still have options, but these are limited and subject to additional criteria. We can assist you in exploring mortgages for cases with previous IVAs, working with specialist lenders in some circumstances. However, acceptance is not guaranteed and all cases are assessed individually.
Important: Borrowing or re-mortgaging when you have or recently had an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) carries significant risks. Acceptance by a lender is less certain, you may face higher interest or restricted options, and if your home is used as security the home may be repossessed if repayments are not kept up.
-
Tailored Lender Match: We connect you with specialist lenders who understand defaults.
-
Focus on Your Present: Your current financial stability is our priority, not just past issues.
-
Expert Navigation: We guide you through complex lending criteria with ease.
Book a free mortgage consultation now
Think carefully about securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other debt secured on it.
What is a Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA)
An Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) is a legally binding agreement in the UK between you and your creditors to pay back your debts over a set period, usually five or six years. It’s a formal insolvency procedure managed by an Insolvency Practitioner. During an IVA, your creditors agree to accept a percentage of what you owe them, and upon successful completion, any remaining eligible unsecured debt is written off. While an IVA is a positive step towards resolving debt, it significantly impacts your credit rating, appearing on your credit file for six years from its start date, and potentially longer if the arrangement extends beyond six years.
Mortgages During or After an IVA
Getting a mortgage with an IVA that is active, or even shortly after its completion, is undeniably challenging with mainstream lenders due to the impact on your credit file. However, it is not impossible. Specialist lenders exist who are willing to consider applicants with an IVA, particularly if you have a strong payment history within the arrangement, a significant deposit, and a stable income. The key factors they assess include the IVA’s start date, its completion status, the amount of debt involved, and critically, your current financial stability and ability to manage new credit. Demonstrating consistent financial discipline since entering the IVA is paramount.
Fees & Costs
We charge for arranging or advising on a mortgage in this high-risk context. As a guide, our fee could be up to [1%] of the loan amount, but your actual fee depends on your circumstances, lender, and complexity of your credit history. Interest rates might be higher and product options fewer. These figures are illustrative, not guaranteed, and we will confirm your fee in writing before proceeding.
What You Should Know
Lenders will typically assess: – how long ago the IVA was approved or whether it is satisfied; – your income, regularity and affordability; – the size of your deposit, equity in your property; – whether adverse credit remains on your file; – whether you have kept to all payments since your IVA. If your IVA is very recent, or your credit/unsecured debts are very high relative to your property value or income, you may not be offered a mortgage. We’ll assess your case and advise whether this route is appropriate.
Why Choose Us?
Navigating the mortgage market with an IVA requires specialised knowledge and dedicated advocacy. At Finance 4 Homes, we excel in this complex area, understanding that an IVA represents a proactive commitment to financial recovery. We have established relationships with a select panel of niche lenders who actively consider applicants with IVAs. We don’t just find lenders; we meticulously prepare your application, explaining your unique circumstances and highlighting your positive financial journey since entering the IVA. Our goal is to present you in the best possible light, dramatically improving your chances of securing a suitable mortgage and helping you move forward with your property aspirations.
How We Help
We work with specialist lenders who may consider IVAs. We’ll help you compile your documentation (IVA certificate, credit history, income proofs), present your case clearly to lenders, and keep you informed of likely outcomes. While we strive to improve your chance of success, we cannot guarantee any lender will accept your application.
Book a free mortgage consultation now
If you’d like a free initial consultation to discuss your IVA and mortgage options, complete the form below. This is guidance only — you’ll require a full personal assessment before any firm recommendation.
Think carefully about securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other debt secured on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to get a mortgage while my IVA is still active?
While challenging, it can be possible. Some specialist lenders will consider applications if your IVA has been running for a certain period (e.g., 2-3 years) with a perfect payment history. You will typically need a substantial deposit and strong affordability. Most mainstream lenders will require the IVA to be completed and discharged.
How long after my IVA is completed can I apply for a mortgage?
Although an IVA remains on your credit file for six years from the date it started (or longer if the plan runs over six years), most specialist lenders prefer to see at least 1-3 years after the IVA has been successfully completed and discharged before they will consider a mortgage application. This allows time for your credit score to begin improving and for you to demonstrate sustained financial stability.
Will my interest rate be higher if I get a mortgage with an IVA history?
Yes, generally, mortgages obtained with an IVA on your record (active or recently discharged) will come with higher interest rates compared to standard mortgages. This reflects the increased perceived risk by specialist lenders. However, these rates are often the gateway to homeownership, with potential to remortgage to a better rate once your credit file further improves.
Will I need a larger deposit for an IVA mortgage?
A larger deposit is almost always beneficial and often crucial when applying for a mortgage with an IVA. Lenders typically prefer deposits of 15-25% or even more, as this significantly reduces their risk. The more equity you can put into the property, the wider your options become among specialist lenders.
How does a mortgage application differ when you have an IVA?
The application process is more in-depth. Lenders will want full details of your IVA, including the original debt amounts, the payment history, and the discharge certificate if completed. Your Insolvency Practitioner (IP) may also need to be contacted. A specialist broker is vital to help gather the correct documentation and present your case effectively to the right lenders.
What Our Clients Say
These testimonials reflect individual clients’ experiences. Past outcomes are not a reliable indicator of future results. Your outcome may differ depending on your circumstances.
Last Updated 06/11/2025