Can Police Officers Get a Better Mortgage?

A police officers’ job can be one of the most demanding in the public sector, with long hours and various pressures, and so it should come to no surprise that one of the most common questions we get asked is “Can police officers get a better mortgage?”.

While there is no exact “Police Officer Mortgage”, the profession itself can open up doorways to unique discounts, deals, and advantages in general, and so you may be eligible for certain benefits when applying for a mortgage. In this short guide, we will explore exactly how police officers can secure better mortgage rates, how much they can borrow, and how to find the best police mortgages available for you.

What Is A Police Mortgage?

As there is no official ‘Police Mortgage’, it is best to understand exactly what a Police Officer’s occupation represents to potential lenders.

Many lenders will correlate any occupation within the Police force or public sector with the benefits of a stable job and a reliable and consistent salary. The truth behind getting great deals on your mortgage will directly relate to the following:

• Income: Having a steady income reduces the risk for lenders.
• Credit rating: Having a higher/good credit score demonstrates your credit risk.
• Employment time: Being employed for a longer duration will demonstrate the likelihood of stability and how comfortable you are in your current financial circumstances.
• Job security: Certain jobs, such as Police Officers, provide a secure and rigid professional pathway that reduces the likelihood of varying incomes or risks.

Typically, working in the profession of policing would adhere to this list and provide a great foundation for any lender to look at offering you a great mortgage deal. Additionally, some lenders may offer exclusive home buying assistance for police officers, making it easier to get on the property ladder.

How Much Can Police Officers Borrow?

When looking at mortgages, the amount available to borrow will depend on several factors, including salary, credit score, and existing financial commitments. Generally speaking, lenders will offer mortgages up to four to five times an applicant’s annual income, though this can change depending on the lender.

Focusing on mortgages for police officers, the perceived stability and consistent income that this occupation generally provides would lend itself to the advantages of receiving great mortgage offers. To provide an example, a police officer earning £40,000 per year could be eligible to borrow between £160,000 and £200,000.

Working with a broker to calculate your potential mortgage can be a great place to start when figuring out exactly where you stand in the world of mortgages. If you’re looking for more information on calculations, at Boon Brokers, we provide a complete mortgage calculator that can help you work out precisely how much you can afford to borrow when moving house, remortgaging, or buying your first home.

What Are The Mortgage Requirements for Police?

All mortgages follow the same general requirements. Lenders may take into account the following:

• Employment Stability – Police officers have steady and reliable employment, which lenders often view positively.
• Income & Affordability – Your salary, overtime, and allowances will be considered to determine how much you can borrow.
• Deposit Requirements – Most lenders require a deposit of at least 5-10% of the property’s value.
• Credit History – A good credit score can improve mortgage approval chances and unlock better interest rates.

If you’re worried about a particular requirement, or just need tailored advice, visit our Mortgage Advice page for a detailed overview of different mortgages and options available to you. If you’re looking at the requirements in relation to the entire process of home buying, take a look at our guide on the 2025 timeline to buying a house.

Can You Still Get A Police Mortgage With Bad Credit?

The short answer is Yes. It is still possible to get a mortgage with bad credit, however, you may have to face a higher interest rate or meet a specific lending criteria.

If a bad credit score is affecting your options, you may want to explore specialist lenders who will tailor mortgage offers to your circumstances. Specialist brokers will be able to help you navigate the ‘mortgage minefield’ in regards to bad credit mortgages – also known as adverse credit – helping advise the best course of action.

Government Schemes for Key Workers

The UK government offers various schemes designed to support key workers, and this of course includes the police.

One of the most popular schemes is the First Homes Scheme, which provides first-time buyers with a 30% – 50% discount of the property’s market value. The First Home Scheme operates nationwide with a specific criteria. For example, for a property to be eligible in the First Home Scheme it must be a new build or be purchased from someone who previously used the scheme themselves. Read our blog – What is the First Home Scheme? – and discover if you’re eligible.

Buying a property with Shared Ownership is another option. This enables you to buy a portion of a property, typically between 25% and 75%, while paying rent on the remaining share. This government scheme is designed to make it easier for you to step onto the property ladder with the advantage of a smaller deposit.

Hero Mortgage Advice for Police Officers

Hero Mortgages are a service offered specifically by Kensington Mortgages, and are designed to provide tailored lending solutions for key workers. This service includes police officers and offers a more flexible lending standard that can potentially increase the borrowing amount.

The Hero Mortgage takes a more holistic view at key worker occupations, taking into account additional factors such as overtime, second job incomes, and much more. This service allows key workers to have an advantage over standard mortgage rates and is ideal for police officers who are concerned with income patterns.

How Boon Brokers Can Help You Find The Best Mortgage

At Boon Brokers, we specialise in helping all walks of life find the best mortgage deals available. As a fee-free mortgage broker, we can provide access to a wide range of lenders and tailor your mortgage so that it suits your needs.

We can help you navigate the difficulties of government home-buying schemes and work with lenders who offer flexible criteria to meet your needs. Whether you are a first-time buyer or looking to remortgage – Contact Boon Brokers today – our experts will guide you through the process.