Author
As an influencer, you’ve built a career that’s anything but traditional. From brand partnerships to affiliate marketing and content creation, your income streams are as diverse as your creative talents. But when it comes to getting a mortgage, you might worry: Will lenders understand how I earn my money? or Is buying a home even possible with my fluctuating income?
The great news is that getting a mortgage as an influencer is entirely achievable. With the right preparation, guidance, and a bit of know-how, you can secure the keys to your dream home. At Verve Financial, we specialize in helping self-employed professionals—including influencers—navigate the mortgage process. Let’s dive into everything you need to know.
Why Influencers Can Struggle with Mortgages
Unlike traditional employees who receive a regular salary and payslips, influencers often have:
1. Multiple Income Streams: You might earn from brand collaborations, affiliate marketing, ad revenue, merchandise, or even Patreon subscriptions.
2. Fluctuating Income: Some months may bring in a flood of cash from big campaigns, while others might be quieter.
3. Self-Employed Status: Most influencers are classed as self-employed, which means lenders assess your income differently compared to salaried applicants.
These unique factors can make lenders cautious—but they don’t have to stop you from getting a mortgage. The key is understanding how to present your finances in a way that gives lenders confidence.
How Lenders Assess Influencers for Mortgages
When reviewing your mortgage application, lenders will focus on the following:
1. Your Income
Lenders need to see that your income is consistent enough to cover mortgage payments. For influencers, this typically involves:
• Tax Returns (SA302s): Usually, lenders ask for 1–3 years of tax returns to verify your income.
• Bank Statements: Showing regular payments from brands, ad platforms (like YouTube or TikTok), and other sources.
• Invoices and Contracts: If you have ongoing partnerships with brands or agencies, these can help prove future income.
Tip: If your income has been growing significantly year-over-year, some lenders may consider your most recent figures instead of averaging the past few years.
2. Affordability
Lenders assess whether you can comfortably afford the mortgage payments by reviewing:
• Your income vs. expenses.
• Any debts, subscriptions, or financial commitments you have.
3. Deposit Size
A bigger deposit can work in your favor by reducing the lender’s risk. Aim for at least 10–20% of the property value, but some lenders accept deposits as low as 5%.
4. Credit History
A strong credit score is a big plus. Lenders will check your credit report to ensure you’ve been managing your finances responsibly.
Steps to Secure a Mortgage as an Influencer
Here’s how to make the process as smooth as possible:
1. Get Your Finances in Order
• Track Your Income: Keep detailed records of payments from brands, ad platforms, and other income sources.
• Organize Documents: Gather tax returns, bank statements, invoices, and contracts.
• Hire an Accountant: A professional accountant can help you prepare clear, lender-friendly accounts.
2. Check Your Credit Score
Use a tool like Experian or ClearScore to review your credit report. Address any issues, such as missed payments, before applying for a mortgage.
3. Save for a Deposit
The bigger your deposit, the more likely lenders will approve your application. Set aside money from your campaigns to build your savings.
4. Work with a Specialist Mortgage Broker
A broker familiar with influencer finances can connect you with lenders who understand your income streams. At Verve Financial, we have strong relationships with lenders who specialize in self-employed mortgages.
5. Be Prepared to Explain Your Career
Some lenders may not fully understand what you do. Be ready to explain your work, income sources, and long-term career plans.
Why Buying a Home as an Influencer Makes Sense
• Stability: Owning a home gives you a permanent base, even if your career takes you around the world.
• Investment: Instead of paying rent, your monthly payments build equity in a property that can grow in value over time.
• Creative Freedom: Your own home gives you more control over your workspace, content backdrops, and creative environment.
Challenges You Might Face—and How to Overcome Them
Fluctuating Income
• Challenge: Some months you earn more than others.
• Solution: Lenders will look at your average income over the last 1–3 years to assess stability.
Short Work History
• Challenge: If you’ve only been an influencer for a short time, lenders might hesitate.
• Solution: Some lenders are happy with just 1 year of accounts, especially if your career growth is strong.
Complex Income Streams
• Challenge: Juggling revenue from ads, sponsorships, and other sources can make your finances look complicated.
• Solution: A broker can help simplify and present your income clearly to lenders.
How Verve Financial Can Help Influencers Get a Mortgage
At Verve Financial, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities of being an influencer. Here’s how we can support you:
• Specialist Advice: We work with lenders who are experienced in self-employed and influencer mortgages.
• Tailored Support: We help you gather the right documents and present your income effectively.
• Stress-Free Process: We handle the legwork so you can focus on your content creation.
• Fee-Free Service: Our advice won’t cost you a penny, so you can save more for your dream home.
Final Thoughts
Getting a mortgage as an influencer is easier than you might think. With the right preparation, clear financial records, and expert advice, you can secure a mortgage and invest in a home that supports your lifestyle and career goals.
