Mortgages for Locum Doctors – What You Need to Know

If you’re working as a locum doctor, getting a mortgage can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Many lenders still don’t fully understand how your income works – whether you’re paid through an agency, on a self-employed basis, or via a limited company.

But the good news is: you absolutely can get a mortgage as a locum doctor – and at J Finance, we’re here to make it easier.

Why Do Locum Doctors Face Challenges with Mortgages?

The main issue isn’t how much you earn – it’s how lenders interpret it.

As a locum, you might:

  • Work in multiple hospitals or practices

  • Have income that fluctuates month to month

  • Be paid through umbrella companies or limited companies

  • Work on a short-term or ad-hoc contract basis

All of this can make your income look inconsistent to lenders who are used to straightforward PAYE payslips. But with the right broker (that’s us), we can help present your income clearly and direct you to the lenders who do understand the locum world.

What Do Lenders Look For?

It depends on how you're set up, but in general, lenders will want to see:

✅ A track record of consistent income – usually 6–12 months minimum
✅ Bank statements and/or invoices showing regular payments
✅ Tax documents if you’re self-employed or operating via a limited company
✅ Proof that your work is ongoing (such as current contracts or regular bookings)

If you’re new to locum work but were recently an NHS employee, some lenders may consider your previous salary alongside your current locum income.

Locum Income and Mortgage Options

We work with a wide range of lenders – including those who specialise in complex income or self-employed professionals. Whether you’re working:

  • As a sole trader

  • Through a limited company

  • Via an umbrella company

  • Or as a mixture of NHS and private

…we’ll match you with the right mortgage options, and explain how lenders will assess your income.

In some cases, we may be able to use your gross contract value, especially if you have a consistent pattern of work or are on a long-term placement.

How J Finance Can Help

We know the locum landscape inside out. At J Finance, we:

  • Understand your income structure – and how to present it clearly to lenders

  • Work with specialist lenders that cater to medical professionals

  • Help you avoid unnecessary paperwork and wasted applications

  • Support you every step of the way, from initial assessment to offer and completion

Whether you're buying your first home, moving, or remortgaging, we’ll give you tailored advice that fits around your work and lifestyle.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s take the stress out of getting a mortgage as a locum doctor. We’ll do the legwork and speak to the lenders that understand your world – so you can focus on your patients, not paperwork.

📞 01635 521300

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.