[For Intermediary Use Only]

At The Stafford for Intermediaries, we look beyond numbers. Every mortgage application represents a person with a unique story. In this case, a first-time buyer had the right financial habits, income stability, and determination to buy their first home. What they didn’t have was a profile that would pass easily through a high street lender’s rigid system. 

This is how we helped their broker Austyn Johnson, Founder of ‘Mortgages for Actors’ secure the mortgage. 

The Applicant: A Skilled Professional with Non-Traditional Income 

The client worked as a stage manager in the performing arts, earning through fixed-term contracts. These varied in length, but they had just signed an extension through to April 2027, which gave us confidence in their ongoing income. 

We usually assess fixed-term income over 48 working weeks. But in this case, the contract included holiday and sick pay, so we used a full 52 weeks instead. That boosted the income we could consider and improved affordability.

We took a flexible approach, looked at the case on its own merits, and were happy with the risk.  

That decision helped the client buy their first home. 

A High Loan-to-Income Ratio, but Clear Affordability 

The case included a loan-to-income (LTI) ratio of 6.19, significantly higher than the 4.49x income cap often used by high street lenders. On paper, that might have been a red flag elsewhere. 

But we looked closer.  

Affordability wasn’t based on projections. The client was already paying £1,800 per month in rent, supported by bank statements. After completion, the mortgage payment would drop to £1,211 per month, representing a meaningful reduction in housing costs. This gave us a clear view of long-term affordability. 

The client’s disposable income met our internal thresholds. In real terms, the mortgage was affordable. 

Supporting Factors: Savings and Family Support 

The client had around £7,000 in savings. They had set this aside specifically to cover any short breaks between contracts. This provided a clear safety net and showed careful planning. 

The deposit came as a gift from their grandfather. The broker supplied a completed gifted deposit form and supporting evidence of funds. We had full transparency, and the documentation met all requirements. 

Responsible Lending, With Risk Managed 

The loan amount represented 89% LTV of the property’s value. This fell within our acceptable range. 

The applicant’s credit check showed no adverse financial conduct. They had managed their finances well, and the broker presented the case clearly with all supporting information. 

In the Broker’s Words 

We’re proud to work with brokers who go the extra mile for clients, especially those who face challenges breaking through traditional lending barriers and looking to be a home-owner.  

Here’s what Austyn Johnson, Founder of ‘Mortgages for Actors’, shared about this case: 

“Our client had already been to see another mortgage adviser in London who laughed and told her she needs a better job. She came to me in tears and although this was not a simple case to place, The Stafford stepped up and helped with some amazing customer service, trying anything they can do to help. The case needed some tweaks to fit, but without doubt, The Stafford wanted to help. 

The BDM & Underwriting team were fast and efficient, the assessment and application process was smooth, the offer was quick, and now the client is happy in her new home with nothing but good words for both The Stafford and Mortgages for Actors. 

No one deserves to be made to cry because they want a home and this is the support we need to help clients who don’t fit the generic box. Thank you.” 

This Is Lending That Reflects Real Life 

Have a case with fixed-term income? Freelance work? A strong client story that doesn’t tick every high street bank’s box, but your instinct says ‘this should work’.

Talk to us early. We’re here to help.  

We look beyond surface-level figures. We assess real-world affordability. And we work with brokers to get complex cases across the line with speed, clarity and confidence.  

If you have a complex case, or just want to speak to someone about a case, visit our The Stafford for Intermediary pages for more information www.srbs.co.uk/intermediaries 

(For Intermediary Use Only)