Medical staff face extra challenges when building credit:
Good credit helps you:
These challenges make good credit even more important.
UK credit scores work differently for each company:
Each mortgage lender has its own method of credit checking – some will look at just one of these systems, some will look at a combination. Some aren’t concerned about your score at all but rather your credit history and general credit conduct.
Your credit report shows lenders how you handle money. It includes:
Lenders use this to decide if you're safe to lend to. Bad marks like late payments or CCJs make mortgages harder to get.
Check your report often. Fix mistakes quickly. Keep it clean and accurate for better mortgage chances.
1. Waiting Too Long Start building credit during training. Don’t wait until you need a mortgage.
2. Missing Payments One missed payment hurts your score. Set up direct debits.
3. Never Checking Your File Check for mistakes. Fix them before applying for mortgages.
4. Avoiding All Credit You need some credit to show you can manage it.
Avoiding these mistakes helps prevent credit issues that could impact your ability to get a mortgage.
Get free reports from all three companies. Look for:
If you find a mistake, contact the company that reported the incorrect information to fix it straight away.
Sign up at your current address by registering on the electoral register, also known as the electoral roll. Being listed, helps lenders verify your address and residency history, which can improve your credit score and enhance your creditworthiness.
For students: Get a student credit card
For others: Try a credit builder card
Use it for small purchases. Pay it off each month. Never use more than 30% of your limit.
Set up direct debits for:
Don't worry if your credit score is already poor. You can improve it.
First, check your credit report. Look for what's hurting your score:
Get help if you need it: Talk to a mortgage broker who understands medical careers. They can give you personal advice and help you plan your next steps.
Remember: bad credit isn't forever. With good habits, you can rebuild your score and get better mortgage deals later.
Month 1: Get credit reports, fix mistakes, register to vote
Months 2-6: Use credit card, pay bills on time
Months 6-12: Build steady payment history
12+ Months: Good credit score, ready for better mortgage deals
There is no minimum credit score or specific credit score needed for getting a mortgage, as requirements vary by lender.
While a higher credit score can improve your chances, each lender has different criteria and there isn't a fixed minimum credit score needed.
How much deposit you need can also depend on your credit score, property value, and the lender's terms. Getting a mortgage involves more than just your credit score—lenders work by assessing your full financial situation, including your income, debts, and overall affordability.
Your medical career will pay well later. Good credit now means better mortgage deals when you’re ready to buy.
