Can I Get a Mortgage After an IVA? Post-IVA Mortgage Guide 2026

Yes, you can get a mortgage after completing an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA). While an IVA will initially impact your credit score and mortgage options, it doesn’t permanently prevent you from getting a mortgage. Many people successfully obtain mortgages after their IVA has finished.

When Can I Apply for a Mortgage After an IVA?

Immediately After IVA Completion

• Specialist lenders may consider applications immediately after your IVA completion certificate
• Higher interest rates and larger deposits (typically 25-40%) will be required
• Limited product choice but homeownership is possible

12 Months After IVA Completion

• More lenders become available, including some mainstream providers
• Better interest rates and reduced deposit requirements (20-25%)
• Improved credit score from 12 months of positive payment history

3+ Years After IVA Completion

• Near-normal mortgage market access with most mainstream lenders
• Competitive interest rates close to standard market rates
• Standard deposit requirements (5-10% with some lenders)

Which lenders may consider post-IVA mortgage applications?

Mortgage criteria change regularly and differ by lender, deposit size, income, property type and the age of the IVA. Instead of relying on a fixed lender list, check the category of lender and get specialist mortgage advice before applying.

Specialist adverse-credit lenders

Some specialist lenders may consider applications after IVA completion, particularly where the completion certificate is available, the deposit is larger and recent credit conduct is clean. Rates and fees are usually higher than standard products.

Building societies and manual underwriting

Some building societies use more manual underwriting and may review post-IVA applications case by case. They usually want a clear explanation of the IVA, stable income and evidence that finances have improved.

Mainstream lenders after credit rebuilding

Mainstream options usually improve once the IVA is older, the credit file has been rebuilt and the 6-year credit marker has dropped away. Criteria still vary, so avoid repeated speculative applications.

How to Improve Your Post-IVA Mortgage Chances

1. Rebuild Your Credit Score

• Register to vote at your current address
• Use credit rebuilding cards responsibly (30% utilization maximum)
• Pay all bills on time including utilities, phone, and council tax
• Check credit reports monthly for errors and dispute any mistakes

2. Save a Larger Deposit

• 25-40% deposit significantly improves approval chances initially
• Reduces lender risk and unlocks better interest rates
• Shows financial discipline to mortgage underwriters

3. Demonstrate Stable Income

• 12+ months employment history with current employer
• Consistent income without gaps or reductions
• Avoid job changes in the 6 months before applying

4. Use a Mortgage Broker

• Specialist brokers have access to more post-IVA lenders
• Expert knowledge of which products suit your situation
• Higher success rates than direct applications

IVA Mortgage Application Process

Documents You’ll Need

• IVA completion certificate from your Insolvency Practitioner
• 3 months payslips and bank statements
• P60 or tax year overview for income verification
• Credit report showing current score and history
• Deposit source evidence (savings statements, gift letters)

Typical Timeline

1. Initial broker consultation - 1-2 weeks to assess options
2. Formal application - 2-4 weeks for lender decision
3. Property valuation - 1-2 weeks after offer acceptance
4. Legal process - 6-12 weeks to completion

Mortgage rates after an IVA

Mortgage pricing after an IVA is usually less favourable at first because the lender sees more credit risk. The exact rate depends on the market, deposit, income, credit history, property and lender criteria at the time you apply.

In practice, your options normally improve when:

• the IVA is completed and you have the completion certificate
• the IVA is older or no longer showing on your credit file
• missed payments and defaults are older
• you have a larger deposit
• your bank statements show stable, affordable spending
• you avoid multiple failed applications

Common Post-IVA Mortgage Mistakes to Avoid

1. Applying Too Soon

• Wait for IVA completion certificate before making applications
• Multiple rejections can damage your credit score further
• Timing applications strategically improves success rates

2. Not Using a Specialist Broker

• Direct applications often result in automatic rejections
• High street banks may not understand IVA circumstances
• Specialist knowledge is crucial for success

3. Insufficient Deposit

• Small deposits severely limit lender options
• 5-10% deposits unlikely to be accepted initially
• Saving longer opens more doors and better rates

Remortgaging After an IVA

If you owned a property during your IVA and kept it, remortgaging follows similar rules:

• New lender applications treated as post-IVA mortgages
• Current lender may offer product transfers more readily
• Equity release during IVA may have reduced your loan-to-value ratio

Buy-to-Let Mortgages After an IVA

Yes, buy-to-let mortgages are possible after an IVA:

• Specialist BTL lenders consider post-IVA applications
• Higher deposits required (typically 40-50%)
• Rental income calculations may be more conservative
• Portfolio landlords face additional scrutiny

Ready to Explore Your Mortgage Options?

Don’t let your IVA stop you from achieving homeownership. With the right approach and specialist help, a mortgage after an IVA is definitely achievable.

Next Steps:

• Use our IVA calculator to assess your financial situation
• Learn about IVA options to understand the process
• Learn about IVA pros and cons from qualified professionals
• Compare IVA companies to find the right option

Related Guides:

• IVA Early Settlement - Pay off your IVA sooner
• IVA vs Bankruptcy - Compare debt solutions
• Complete IVA Guide - Everything you need to know about IVAs

Frequently Asked Questions

How long after an IVA can I get a mortgage?

Some specialist lenders may consider applications after completion, but options usually improve as the IVA ages, your credit file improves and your deposit increases.

Do I have to declare an old IVA to a mortgage lender?

Yes, if the lender asks about past insolvency or debt arrangements you should answer accurately. During the 6-year credit file period the IVA is likely to show on credit checks.

Can I remortgage during an IVA?

It is usually difficult and may require Insolvency Practitioner consent. Homeowners should get specialist advice before applying or releasing equity.

Sources checked

• IVA Protocol key facts for credit file timing and home-equity rules.
• Experian IVA guidance for credit file impact context.
• MoneyHelper mortgage guidance for general mortgage advice signposting.
• GOV.UK options for dealing with your debts for debt solution context.

This guide was compiled from mortgage industry guidance and credit reference agency information. Last reviewed: April 2026.

Reviewed by IVA Online’s debt research team. For personalised mortgage advice, consult a specialist broker.