Bad credit mortgages

Looking for a mortgage, but worried CCJ is standing in your way?

We are here to help.

A common question asked of our expert Advisers is whether it is possible to get a mortgage with a County Court Judgement (CCJ)? When trying to secure a mortgage, unfortunately, past financial issues such as late payments, debt management plans, repossessions, individual voluntary arrangements, and bankruptcy can make it difficult to obtain borrowing, including a mortgage.

However, there are still options available. While High Street lenders may be less likely to approve a mortgage with a CCJ, there are specialist lenders who may accommodate you. Seeking advice from a CCJ mortgage broker can help you access these lenders and find the most suitable mortgage terms and interest rates for your situation.

What is a County Court Judgment (CCJ)?

A CCJ is given to a person who fails to make agreed payments on a debt. This is typically a last resort for creditors after exhausting other means of obtaining payment. It’s important to note that even if the CCJ is not pursued, the previous steps taken to demand payment will still negatively affect your credit score.

If you have been issued a CCJ, it’s important to understand its impact on your chances of getting a mortgage. Lenders will consider factors such as whether the CCJ has been paid off or is still outstanding, when it was issued, and the amount of the CCJ. The size of your deposit will also be a key factor.

If the CCJ has been paid off within 30 days or successfully appealed against, it is less likely to affect your chances of obtaining a mortgage. However, if it has been settled within the past three years, some lenders may still refuse to approve a mortgage.

If you have ignored the CCJ and it has resulted in a judgment in default, this can further decrease your chances of obtaining a mortgage. The date of issue and size of the CCJ will also play a role in a lender’s decision, with many requiring it to be settled for more than a year before considering a mortgage.

When it comes to the size of the CCJ, lenders will be more cautious if it was issued within the past two years and for a larger amount. This can affect the amount of deposit required for a mortgage, with a CCJ issued within the past year potentially requiring a deposit of 25-35%.

It’s important to note that the more CCJs you have, the more difficult it may be to obtain a mortgage. However, the size of your deposit can also influence a lender’s decision.

To increase your chances of getting a mortgage with a CCJ, it’s important to ensure that all repayment requirements are up to date and to avoid applying for too much credit. Checking your credit report for accuracy can also be helpful. Lenders will also consider the size of your CCJ and employment history during affordability checks.

When it comes to the type of mortgage, a standard or remortgage is more likely to be approved, with first-time buyer mortgages potentially facing stricter criteria. If a remortgage is not an option, a secured loan may be possible if there is adequate equity in the property.

Other financial issues such as defaults, debt management plans, IVAs, and bankruptcy can also affect your chances of obtaining a mortgage. Lenders will typically require these to be fully repaid before considering a mortgage application.

If you are looking to obtain a buy to let property, a longer period since the issue of the CCJ and a larger deposit may be required.

Can I get a mortgage if I have a CCJ?

While a CCJ can make it more difficult to obtain a mortgage, there are still options available. Seeking advice from a CCJ mortgage broker and being proactive in managing your finances can increase your chances of securing a mortgage.

What is a discharged CCJ?

A discharged CCJ means that the debt has been fully paid off or settled, and the court has formally closed the case. This can have a positive effect on the individual’s credit score, as it shows that they have taken responsibility for their debt and fulfilled their obligations.

How do I know if I have a CCJ?

You will be notified by the court that you have a CCJ in place and will have been invited to attend or have a hearing. It will also be available to view on your credit report.

Do I need to clear a CCJ before applying for a mortgage?

It is not necessary to settle a CCJ before applying for a mortgage. However, the date and amount of the CCJ registration may impact the options available to you.

Does the date of my CCJ affect my mortgage?

Yes. The date of this will directly impact what lender and rates are available to you.

How can I stop a CCJ?

Upon reaching the court, you will be allotted a period of 14 days to settle the outstanding debt in its entirety. Doing so will prevent it from being reflected on your credit report.

Can I get a mortgage if I have a satisfied CCJ?

Yes, you can obtain a mortgage with a County Court Judgment (CCJ) or satisfied CCJ, it will depend on the date of registration and the amount of the CCJ.

How will a CCJ affect my credit score?

A County Court Judgment (CCJ) can have a negative impact on your credit score, limiting your access to lenders and potentially resulting in higher interest rates.

Because we play by the book we want to tell you that…

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend upon your circumstances.
The fee is up to 1% but a typical fee is £595.

Speak to our experts

With access to 1000s mortgages from over 90 high street lenders, we can help you find the right mortgage. Our five-star Google reviews back this up. Call us now and speak to a member of our experienced team.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the size of the CCJ matter?

Can I get a CCJ removed from my credit file?

Can I get a 5% deposit mortgage with a County Court Judgement (CCJ)?

How much can I borrow with a County Court Judgement (CCJ)?

How many County Court Judgement (CCJs) can I have?

How do I rebuild my credit score after receiving a CCJ?

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