Mortgages for Foster Carers!

Written by Damon Pike – Principle Mortgage and Protection Advisor

Last updated: 25th January 2023

Mortgages for Foster Carer’s are the same mortgage products available to everybody else. However, as a Foster Carer you won’t be eligible for every product on the market. This is because lenders have their own criteria or lending policies which can vary greatly, so you should only apply to a Mortgage Lender that meets your needs.

How will my foster income be assessed for a mortgage application?

This will vary between lenders. Some high street lenders will not accept foster income at all, some lenders may only accept a percentage, while others will accept foster income as the main source of income and include any allowances. Policies may also vary depending on short term or long term fostering.

Proof of income required will also vary between lenders some will require a tax year overview (or SA302) from HMRC while others will require 3, 6 or even 12 months remittance slips. You may also be asked to provide a P60 and/or a letter from your agency/ local authority confirming your Foster Carer status and continuation. Where income varies greatly week to week or month to month an average over a longer period will be looked at. Speak to a mortgage advisor like us that understands the income structure for Foster Carers.

What about expenditure?

For long term Foster Carers, anybody placed in your care will likely be counted as a dependant and will be included in the lender’s affordability assessment. Therefore, it may be important to have a lender that will also accept your allowances as income to give you the best chance of proving that the mortgage will be affordable. For short term Foster Carers, you may find that anybody placed in your care is not counted as a dependent, and it is likely you will not be able to use allowances as part of your income assessment.

How long do I need to have been a Foster Carer to get a mortgage?

Mortgages for Foster Carer’s typically require a minimum of 6 months to use the income for affordability. However, more lenders/ products will become available to you after 12 or even 24 months. This can also depend on the type of work that you do and how likely it is to continue in the future. If you’re still unsure, get in touch using the form below and we will see if we can help you.

Can I use other income to get a mortgage?

If you have a second job, foster caring is your second job or you have other sources of income, these can be looked at as part of your affordability assessment and may help increase your chances of getting a mortgage or increase the amount that you could borrow.

Do I need to use a Mortgage Advisor?

Even if you apply directly to a mortgage lender you will need an appointment with their mortgage advisor. However, they can only recommend products from their limited range. Sourcing mortgages for Foster Carers can be complex, using an independent mortgage advisor who has expert knowledge can be invaluable. If you’re still unsure, take a look at our top 10 reasons to use a mortgage advisor here.

Who provides mortgages for Foster Carer’s?

There are many lenders allowing mortgage applications using foster care income, including high street banks, building societies, online only lenders and specialist lenders. We can compare the best rates from the specific lenders that will accept an application based on your circumstances. Lupo Mortgage services does not charge broker fees. Leave us a message and contact details using the form below and we will get back to you and answer any questions that you have.

And finally

If you need any more information, or want to discuss your situation, contact us using the form below and we will get straight back to you.

Damon Pike

Principle Mortgage and Protection Advisor

Damon Pike

Principle Mortgage and Protection Advisor

Damon Pike

Principle Mortgage and Protection Advisor