How Much Can I Borrow for a Mortgage?
The answer depends on which lender you ask. Two banks looking at the same salary can offer amounts that differ by tens of thousands of pounds. We checked 60+ UK lenders to show you the real range.
Borrowing Range by Salary
The table below shows the lowest and highest mortgage offers we found across major UK lenders for each salary level, based on a single applicant with no significant debts.
Based on each lender's affordability calculator, April 2026. Single employed applicant, 25-year repayment term, no additional debts. Figures are for illustration only — your actual offer depends on your full circumstances.
Why Is There Such a Big Gap?
Every UK mortgage lender runs its own affordability model. The differences come down to three main factors:
Income Multiples
Most lenders cap borrowing at 4 to 4.5 times your annual salary. But some stretch to 5x, 5.5x, or even 6.5x for certain professionals or higher earners. That single variable alone can add tens of thousands to your maximum loan.
Stress Testing
Lenders must check that you could still afford repayments if interest rates rose. They each use different stress rates, typically between 6% and 8.5%. A lower stress rate means the lender can offer you more.
Enhanced Multiples
Several lenders offer higher income multiples for first-time buyers, professionals (doctors, accountants, solicitors), or borrowers with larger deposits. These enhanced schemes can significantly boost the amount you are offered.
Find Out Your Personal Borrowing Range
The figures above are based on a standard scenario. Your actual range depends on your full financial picture. Check 60+ lenders in minutes with no credit search.
Start Your Free ComparisonFigures are estimates based on a standard scenario. Last updated April 2026.
