If you’re planning to buy a home, one of the first things you might be thinking about is how long it takes to get a mortgage.

The truth is, it depends on a few things, like your personal finances, how fast your lender works, and how prepared you are with documents. But in most cases, the process takes between 2 to 6 weeks from start to finish.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step, explain what might speed things up (or slow them down), and give you tips to help things go smoothly.

How long does a mortgage application take?

Filling out a mortgage application is usually the quickest part—it can take just a few hours. But getting from start to finish with your mortgage approval usually takes longer. Here’s a quick look at what happens:

  1. Decision in principle (DIP) – A quick check to see how much you might be able to borrow.
  2. Full application – You share full details about your income, spending, and the property.
  3. Checks – The lender reviews your credit history and makes sure you can afford the loan.
  4. Valuation – They check the property to make sure it’s worth the price.
  5. Offer – If everything looks good, the lender sends a formal mortgage offer.

Each step can take a few days, or sometimes longer, especially if anything needs to be double-checked.

The 5 key stages of the mortgage process

1. Get a decision in principle (DIP)

This is a short letter or email from a lender saying they’re likely to lend you a certain amount, based on a quick credit check and your income details.

  • How long it takes: A few minutes to a few hours.

It’s useful to have before house hunting, as it shows estate agents and sellers that you’re serious. Learn more about what a decision in principle involves and how to get one.

2. Submit your mortgage application

Once you’ve found a property and had your offer accepted, you complete the full mortgage application. This includes more detailed questions about your income, savings, spending, and the property itself.

  • How long it takes: 1 to 2 hours.

It’s best to get help from a mortgage broker if you’re unsure about anything—mistakes can slow things down.

3. Credit and affordability checks

The lender takes a deeper look at your finances. They’ll check your credit report and compare your income against your monthly expenses to make sure you can afford the mortgage.

  • How long it takes: Typically, a few days. However, if your finances are complex, for example, if you’re self-employed, it may take a bit longer.

4. Property valuation and underwriting

Next, the lender will carry out a valuation to confirm that the property is worth what you’ve offered to pay. This protects both you and the lender.

At the same time, an underwriter reviews all your documents to make sure everything lines up.

  • How long it takes: 1 to 2 weeks.

5. Completion

Once you receive a formal mortgage offer, your solicitor or conveyancer will start the legal work. This part is called conveyancing and includes reviewing contracts, doing property checks, and finalising the sale.

The process ends with exchanging contracts and picking up the keys to your new home.

What can slow the process down?

Even when you’re organised, some things can delay your mortgage. Here are some common issues:

  • Lender processing times – Some lenders are faster than others. High-street banks can take longer than specialist or online lenders.
  • Credit problems – If your credit report shows missed payments or defaults, lenders may take longer to approve your mortgage.
  • Low property valuation – If the property is valued lower than your offer, you may need to renegotiate or find a bigger deposit.
  • Slow legal work – Delays from solicitors or missing paperwork can also slow things down.

How to speed up your mortgage application

Here are a few easy ways to keep things moving:

Improve your credit score

Check your credit report before you apply. Fix any errors, pay down debts, and avoid taking out new loans or credit cards before applying.

Gather your paperwork early

Be ready with all the documents lenders usually ask for, such as:

  • Proof of ID (passport or driving licence)
  • Recent payslips and P60s
  • Bank statements (usually 3–6 months)
  • Proof of deposit
  • Tax returns and business accounts (if self-employed)

Stay in contact

Answer emails and phone calls from your solicitor and lender quickly. If anything is missing, try to provide it as soon as possible. Don’t be afraid to chase them for updates.

Use a mortgage broker

Mortgage brokers understand which lenders are fast to process applications and which are more flexible with different types of income. They can help you avoid delays, sidestep common mistakes, and save valuable time.

What if you don’t have a full-time job?

You don’t need to be employed in a 9-to-5 job to get a mortgage. Lenders may accept other types of income if they’re regular and provable. Here are some examples:

  • Rental income – From properties you let out.
  • Investment income – Like dividends or interest, if it’s regular.
  • Pension income – A steady source for retired applicants.
  • Freelance or contract work – May be accepted if you can show a consistent history.

To get approved, you’ll need to show that your income is reliable. Most lenders will want to see:

  • Recent bank statements.
  • Tax returns or SA302 forms.
  • A clear pattern of income coming in regularly.

Why a mortgage broker is worth it

Getting a mortgage can be stressful, especially if you’re self-employed, have multiple income sources, or have never applied before. That’s where a mortgage broker can really help.

A broker is someone who understands what different lenders look for. They can:

  • Help you find out which income sources count.
  • Make your application stronger.
  • Find lenders who are flexible and open to different situations.
  • Handle most of the paperwork for you.
  • Explain the process in simple terms.

A good broker can save you time, reduce your stress, and help you avoid costly delays or mistakes.

Summary: How long does a mortgage take?

Most people get their mortgage approved in 2 to 6 weeks. The exact time depends on how prepared you are, how complex your finances are, and how fast your lender and solicitor work.

To move things along:

  • Get a decision in principle early.
  • Gather your documents ahead of time.
  • Stay in close contact with your solicitor and lender.
  • Use a mortgage broker to guide you through the process.

Need assistance? Find a mortgage broker to help you through the process.