The planner uses a 4.5× income illustration when you do not enter a checked borrowing figure. It is not a lender decision or a universal limit. Spending, debts, dependants, employment, age and credit history can change the answer.
One example: Nationwide Helping Hand
Eligible applicants may be considered for up to 6× income. Published minimum income is £30,000 for a sole application or £50,000 jointly. The 5-year fixed option can reach 95% loan-to-value (the mortgage as a percentage of the property price); the 10-year option, 90%.
Nationwide’s definition includes no mortgage (a loan secured on your home) in the UK or abroad during the previous three years. Self-employed applicants, shared ownership (buying a share of a home and paying rent on the rest) and certain other schemes are excluded. All other affordability (whether the borrowing and ongoing costs fit your circumstances) and credit checks still apply.
A useful next step
Ask a regulated adviser or lender to check your actual circumstances. Bring income evidence and a full list of regular spending and credit commitments.
Checked 25 October 2026. Rules and product availability can change; check the original information before acting.
MoneyHelper · Mortgage affordability ↗Nationwide · Helping Hand ↗Nationwide for Intermediaries · Borrower types ↗GOV.UK · How to buy a home ↗MoneyHelper · Applying for a mortgage ↗Test this against your own budget.
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