How many people can be on a mortgage?

Most lenders allow up to 4 people on a joint mortgage. Some only use the income of the top 2 earners for affordability, while others consider all applicants.

Do we all need the same deposit amount?

No. With tenants in common, each person can contribute a different amount and own a proportional share of the property.

What if one person wants to sell?

This should be covered in your trust deed. Typically, the remaining owners have the first option to buy out the departing person's share.

Can friends get a mortgage together?

Yes, most lenders treat friend applications the same as family or couple applications. The key is meeting the affordability and credit criteria.

Buying with Friends & Family

Buying with friends or family can make homeownership more affordable — but it needs careful planning. We guide you through the mortgage and legal considerations.

Getting a Mortgage with Friends or Family

Pooling resources with friends or family members to buy a property is becoming increasingly popular, especially among first-time buyers priced out of the market. Most lenders allow up to 4 people on a joint mortgage application, combining everyone's income for affordability. However, the legal structure, ownership shares, and exit strategy all need careful consideration.

Joint mortgages with up to 4 applicants
Combined income maximises borrowing capacity
Guidance on tenants in common vs joint tenants
Trust deed and exit strategy advice
100% fee-free mortgage guidance

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Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Ownership Structures

When buying with others, you'll choose between joint tenants (equal ownership — if one dies, their share passes to the other owners) or tenants in common (ownership in defined shares — each person can leave their share in their will). Tenants in common is usually recommended for friends or unrelated buyers, as it allows unequal shares reflecting different contributions.

Affordability Benefits

Combining incomes can dramatically increase borrowing power. Two people earning £30,000 each could borrow around £270,000 jointly, compared to £135,000 individually. Adding a third or fourth buyer increases capacity further, though some lenders only use the highest two incomes.

Trust Deeds and Cohabitation Agreements

A trust deed or cohabitation agreement sets out each person's ownership share, financial contributions, responsibility for repairs and maintenance, and — crucially — what happens if someone wants to sell their share or the relationship breaks down. This document is essential for protecting all parties.

Exit Strategy

What happens if one person wants to move out, gets married, or can't afford their share? Planning for these scenarios upfront prevents costly disputes later. Options include buying out the departing person's share, selling the property, or finding a replacement buyer.