High LTV and High LTI Mortgages: What Borrowers in Swindon, Cirencester and Bristol Need to Know
By Samuel Mather-Holgate
For many people, buying a home feels just out of reach. Rising house prices, especially in Swindon, Cirencester and Bristol, mean larger deposits and bigger loans are needed. The good news? Lenders are beginning to re-open their doors to high loan-to-value (LTV) and high loan-to-income (LTI) mortgages.
If you’re wondering whether these products are right for you, or how to get approved, this guide explains everything you need to know — and why speaking to a mortgage adviser can make all the difference.
What Are High LTV and High LTI Mortgages?
LTV (Loan-to-Value): This is the percentage of the property’s value you borrow. A 95% LTV mortgage means you only need a 5% deposit.
LTI (Loan-to-Income): This is how much you can borrow based on your income. While most lenders cap borrowing at around 4.5x your salary, some now stretch to 5 or even 6 times under certain criteria.
Why Are Lenders Bringing These Back?
Recent changes in the mortgage market, combined with a slowdown in house price growth, have encouraged lenders to cautiously offer higher LTV and LTI options again. For first-time buyers, this could be the difference between renting and owning.
For example:
Nationwide’s Helping Hand product has reduced income thresholds, allowing more buyers to access up to 6x income.
Specialist lenders are competing to attract younger buyers with smaller deposits.
In areas like Swindon and Bristol, where affordability has been stretched, this shift could open the door for many buyers who were previously locked out.
Who Can Access High LTV and High LTI Mortgages?
Not everyone will qualify. Lenders look closely at:
Credit history – any missed payments may make it harder.
Employment type – stable salaried roles are often favoured over irregular income.
Other commitments – loans, credit cards and childcare costs all affect affordability.
Property type – some lenders avoid flats above shops, new builds, or non-standard constructions.
How a Mortgage Adviser Helps
This is where using a broker really matters. At Mather & Murray Financial, our advisers know exactly which lenders will accept which circumstances. We’ve helped clients who:
Were self-employed with only one year’s accounts.
Had minor credit issues but a strong overall profile.
Wanted to maximise borrowing to buy their family’s forever home.
Struggled to save a big deposit but had solid incomes.
By working with the whole of market, we can:
Place your application with the right lender first time.
Secure exclusive deals not available directly.
Monitor rates — and if a better deal comes along before completion, we can switch you over.
Local Markets: Swindon, Cirencester and Bristol
Swindon – New developments continue to attract first-time buyers, but deposits remain the biggest hurdle. High LTV products are a lifeline.
Cirencester – With higher property values, high LTI borrowing is often required to bridge the gap between income and house prices.
Bristol – Demand outstrips supply, and competition is fierce. Access to the right lender can make or break a purchase.
FAQs
Can I get a mortgage with just a 5% deposit?
Yes, some lenders now offer 95% LTV mortgages, though criteria are strict.
Will a lender give me 6 times my income?
Some products allow this, but usually for higher earners in stable jobs. Advice is essential.
Do I need a mortgage adviser for high LTV or LTI cases?
Absolutely. The criteria are complex, and an adviser will know which lender is the best fit.
What if I’ve been declined by my bank?
That doesn’t mean all lenders will say no. We’ve placed many mortgages that seemed “impossible.”
Contact us…
High LTV and high LTI mortgages are making a comeback, but they aren’t easy to secure without the right guidance. At Mather & Murray Financial, our experienced mortgage advisers in Swindon, Cirencester and Bristol specialise in helping clients who thought home ownership was out of reach.
Call us today on 01793 261626 or BOOK A CALL BACK to find out how we can help.
