Understand your position
We review your goals, income, commitments, deposit or equity and timescale.
SPECIALIST PROPERTY FINANCE
Mortgages after defaults
Find lenders able to assess historic or recent defaults in the context of your full circumstances. Speak to an adviser who will assess your full circumstances, not just a headline number.
No obligation · Initial conversation does not affect your credit score
Written and reviewed by Smart Mortgages specialistsReviewed 21 August 2026 · FCA reference 912358
Read our complete credit-impaired mortgage guide →
How we help with mortgages after defaults
Finding the right funding is about more than comparing rates. Property type, rental or trading income, experience, valuation and ownership structure can all change the outcome.
Compare suitable options
We assess lender criteria, overall cost and suitability, not only the initial rate.
Manage the application
Your adviser and case manager keep the lender, valuation and legal process moving.
A default does not always close the door
Lenders consider the account type, default date, amount, whether it has been satisfied and the conduct of your finances since.
Date registered
The time since registration can materially change the lenders available.
Account type
Communications, utilities and unsecured credit may be treated differently.
Current status
Settlement can matter, although it does not remove the record immediately.
Recent conduct
Stable payments can help demonstrate the current position.
Your Smart Mortgages contact
Aaron leads default and complex-credit enquiries.
A default does not always close the door FAQs
Can an unsatisfied default be accepted?
Some lenders may consider this within limits, while others require settlement before application.
How long does a default remain on file?
A default is normally recorded for six years from its date, but lender options can change before it disappears.
Are all defaults treated alike?
No. Lenders distinguish by amount, age, status and the type of credit involved.
First-time buyer with a recent default
A historic credit problem had reduced the client’s lender options and confidence about buying.
How we approached it
Read the full case study →Individual circumstances and outcomes vary. This example is not a guarantee of acceptance.We checked the date, value, status and explanation, reviewed the available deposit and avoided lenders whose criteria did not fit.
Specialist knowledge that can make the difference
Our team regularly works with mortgage defaults, satisfied defaults and adverse-credit mortgages. If a lender or another broker has already said no, that does not always mean there is no route forward. We can review your circumstances and whether a different lender or structure may be appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I borrow?
It depends on the property, income or rent, deposit or equity, experience, credit profile and lender policy. We provide a case-specific assessment.
Does an initial conversation affect my credit score?
No. An initial discussion with our team does not involve a lender credit search.
Can you help throughout the UK?
Yes. Our branches cover Northern Ireland and Scotland, and we advise clients across the UK.