Join UsCan You Get A Mortgage If You’re Self-Employed In Ireland?
We’re often asked whether we offer mortgages to self-employed people. The answer is absolutely yes. The process is a little different to PAYE applicants, simply because your income is structured differently, but being self-employed does not stand in the way of owning your home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how a self-employed mortgage in Ireland works, what documents you’ll need, how your income is assessed, and the simple steps you can take to strengthen your application. And if you’d like to get a feel for potential repayments, you can use our mortgage calculator on our Mortgage page to see what might be affordable for you.
Why Getting A Mortgage When Self-Employed Is Different
For a PAYE, income is usually straightforward, with payslips and salary cert. However, when you’re self-employed, income can fluctuate, and that’s why lenders typically look for proven trading history, consistent income, tax compliance and evidence of sustainability.
Is It Harder To Get A Mortgage If You’re Self-Employed?
It’s not harder, it’s just more detailed. Lenders simply need stronger evidence of stable income. With proper preparation and the right support, many self-employed borrowers successfully secure mortgages every year.
How Long Do You Need To Be Self-Employed To Get A Mortgage?
Most lenders ask for 2 full years of trading history, 2 years of accounts or tax returns and revenue compliance. In some circumstances, if you have strong industry experience and a solid first year of trading, exceptions may be considered. Still, generally, two years is the standard benchmark for a self-employed mortgage Ireland application.
How Is Income Calculated For Self-Employed Mortgages?
This is one of the biggest concerns for applicants, as most lenders calculate income based on net profit (sole traders), salary + dividends (company directors), and average income over 2 years. At Croí Laighean Credit Union, we assess:
- Income sustainability
- Business stability
- Future earning capacity
- Sector outlook
- Your repayment history
This personal assessment often makes a real difference for self-employed mortgage loans.
How Much Can You Borrow?
Under Central Bank rules in Ireland, first-time buyers can borrow up to 4x gross income and second-time buyers typically up to 3.5x gross income. Your exact borrowing capacity depends on your income level, your existing commitments, the number of dependants and your repayment capacity.
Common Challenges Self-Employed Applicants Face
Many self-employed applicants will struggle with income that varies year to year, recent business start-ups, tax-efficient income structures, large retained profits in the company and irregular dividends. This is where personalised underwriting becomes important.
A manual assessment lets us look beyond a single number and understand the story behind your income.
What Documents Do You Need for a Self-Employed Mortgage?
A self-employed person looking for a mortgage will typically need:
- 2 years’ certified accounts
- Revenue Notice of Assessment
- Tax Clearance confirmation
- 6 months’ business bank statements
- 6 months’ personal bank statements
- Identification & proof of address
- Details of existing debts
If you are a company director, additional documentation may be required.
Best Mortgage Rates for Self-Employed in Ireland
Self-employed applicants are generally offered the same mortgage rates as PAYE applicants, provided the income documentation is strong.
At Croí Laighean Credit Union, we offer:
- Rates from 3.75% (subject to product type)
- No loan-to-value penalties
- Local decision-making
- Reducing balance interest
- No sale of mortgages to third parties
If you’re searching for the best mortgage provider for self-employed borrowers, transparency and flexibility matter more than headline rates alone.
You can use our mortgage calculator for self-employed applicants to estimate repayments based on different loan amounts and terms.
Step-By-Step: How To Get A Mortgage When Self-Employed
Here’s a simplified roadmap:
- Step 1 – Get your accounts in order and ensure your tax returns are filed and up to date
- Step 2 – Review your borrowing capacity and assess realistic repayments (use a mortgage calculator)
- Step 3 – Gather documentation: accounts, bank statements and tax documents
- Step 4 – Speak with a mortgage advisor who will assess your situation before you apply formally
- Step 5 – Apply, and if successful, you will receive your approval in principle letter so you can begin house-hunting confidently
Why Choose A Credit Union For A Self-Employed Mortgage?
For a self-employed looking for mortgage options, working with a lender who understands individual circumstances will make the process much smoother and increase the application success rate. As a not-for-profit lender, with a Credit Union:
- Applications are reviewed by real people
- A common-sense approach is used
- Interest stays in the local community
- Mortgages don’t get sold to vulture funds
Self-Employed Mortgage Advice: Practical Tips
We really think preparation is everything; however, here are some practical tips:
- Avoid large unexplained bank transactions before applying
- Keep business and personal accounts organised
- Minimise unnecessary new borrowing
- File taxes on time
- Maintain consistent drawings/salary where possible
Ready to Apply?
If you’re self-employed and planning to buy your first home, move house, or switch mortgage, speak to our team today. We’ll guide you through the process clearly, fairly, and without unnecessary stress.
Self-Employed Mortgages FAQs
Can I get a mortgage as a self-employed person?
Yes. Most lenders require two years of trading history and supporting financial documentation.
How long do you need to be self-employed for to get a mortgage?
Typically, two full years.
Are mortgage rates higher for self-employed?
No. The rates are usually the same, provided income verification is strong.
What is the best mortgage lender for self-employed in Ireland?
The best lender is one that offers flexible underwriting, competitive rates, and personalised advice.
Can I use a mortgage calculator if I’m self-employed?
Yes. Our mortgage calculator lets you estimate repayments for different loan amounts and terms.