How to apply for a mortgage

Applying for a mortgage or remortgaging with us is simple. First, you'll need a 'decision in principle' (sometimes called an 'agreement in principle'), and then you can apply for your mortgage.

Find out how to apply for a mortgage with HSBC

1. Prepare your details

You'll need details of your income, employment and outgoings.

2. Get a decision in principle

This will give you a good idea of the amount you may be able to borrow. It's quick and easy and it won't affect your credit score.

3. Apply for a mortgage

Once you’ve got your decision in principle, you can start your full mortgage application.

Think carefully before securing other debts against your home.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Ready to get a decision in principle?

Before you apply, you should make sure that:

We'll ask you a few questions about yourself and any other person you want to take out a mortgage with. It takes about 5 minutes, and won't affect your credit score.

If you don't meet all of the criteria, get your decision in principle here.

For buy-to-let mortgage applications find out more.

Or, if you're not a UK resident find out how to apply .

Apply for a mortgage

Once you've got your decision in principle, you can continue to complete your mortgage application.

Mortgages for self-employed

We're asking all applicants with any form of self employed income to apply by making an appointment over the phone, by Zoom or in a branch. This is to help us fully understand your income.

You can find out how much you may be able to borrow by completing a decision in principle online. Once you’re ready to complete your application, you’ll need to contact us to book an appointment.

Apply online

Before you apply online check that:

Apply with a mortgage adviser

You can also choose to apply with a mortgage adviser, by phone or in a branch. We can give advice on the most suitable residential mortgage for you, and guide you through the residential or buy-to-let mortgage process.

Give us a call to book your appointment

Our lines are open Monday to Friday 08:00 to 20:00, Saturday and Sunday 09:00 to 17:00. We may monitor and record calls. Opening hours within the mortgage departments may vary.

FAQs

Will you lend on flats that have failed their external wall system fire review (EWS1) but have funding plans in place to fix this?

We will consider lending on flats in England and Wales which have suitable remediations schemes, and those where leaseholders are protected under the Building Safety Act. In such cases an EWS1 report is not required.

How long does a mortgage application take?

How long your application will take depends on how you choose to apply and other factors. A more complex application, with more parties, may take longer.

How long does a decision in principle last?

At HSBC, decision in principle remains valid for as long as your circumstances and our lending criteria remain the same. Remember a decision in principle is only an indication of how much you can borrow. It's not an offer until you complete a full mortgage application.

How do mortgages work?

A mortgage is a type of loan that's used to buy a property. The property acts as security for the loan, so it could be repossessed if you can't meet the repayments.

When you apply for a mortgage, you need to put down a deposit. This will be a percentage of the cost of the property value.

The rest of the money you’ll need to buy your new home is covered by a mortgage.

There are different types of mortgage rates, different types of repayment options and a choice of terms to repay the mortgage over. You might find it helpful to speak to an adviser or broker to help you decide what mortgage is best for you.