Q: Can I get a mortgage while I’m still in pupillage?

Potentially, yes. One of the misconceptions we regularly encounter is that barristers need several years of self-employed accounts before they can secure a mortgage.

Pupillage presents an unusual income structure, but there are lenders that understand the profession and may consider the guaranteed element of your income alongside your future earning potential. The important point is identifying lenders whose criteria and underwriting approach accommodate your particular circumstances.

Q: My income fluctuates considerably. Will that work against me?

Not necessarily. Fluctuating income is a normal feature of practice at the Bar, but lenders can interpret it differently.

Some may focus on an average of historic earnings, while others can take a more detailed view of recent performance and the reasons behind any fluctuations. The way your accounts and tax calculations present your income can also influence a lender’s assessment.

The objective is to give the lender a clear and accurate picture of your financial position rather than allowing one set of figures to define it.

Q: I took time away from practice and my income dropped. Will lenders take that into account?

A temporary reduction in earnings does not necessarily reflect the underlying strength of your practice.

Parental leave, career breaks and other changes in circumstances can create an unusually low-income year. Some lenders may be willing to consider the context behind that reduction rather than treating it as evidence of declining earnings.

This is where explaining the story behind the figures can become particularly important.

Q: My earnings have increased significantly over the past year. Can a lender use my more recent income?

Potentially. A barrister’s earnings can increase sharply as their practice develops, but not every lender will assess that progression in the same way.

Some lenders may rely heavily on historic averages, while others can consider a more recent trajectory where it can be appropriately evidenced. This can be particularly relevant following pupillage, the development of a specialist practice or other significant career progression.

Q: Should I approach my existing bank first?

Your bank may be one option, but it does not necessarily mean its lending criteria will be the best fit for your circumstances.

Barristers can have financial profiles that sit outside conventional underwriting models, particularly where income is self-employed, irregular or changing rapidly. Understanding which lenders are comfortable with those characteristics can therefore be just as important as the mortgage rate itself.

An adviser familiar with barrister income can assess your circumstances, identify appropriate lenders and present your financial position in a way that helps an underwriter understand the wider picture.

Have a question for Kem?

For further information or to discuss your circumstances with Henry Dannell Private Clients:

Call 020 4599 9444
Email info@henrydannell.co.uk
Visit henrydannell.co.uk

Important information: A mortgage is secured against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it. Mortgage deals may not be available, and lending is subject to individual circumstances and status.

Henry Dannell Private Clients Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Number 943626.