Mortgage After an IVA: Ben Walker Helps Client Find a Specialist Lender

Mortgage Case Study

Helping a Couple Move Forward After an IVA

Mortgage Adviser Ben Walker helped a couple understand their mortgage options after settling an IVA, ultimately helping them secure a mortgage for their new home.

Unfortunate life events had put a strain on the clients' finances, which resulted in necessary action being taken at the time to address their financial circumstances.

Having subsequently obtained new employment, the clients had worked hard to repay and settle their outstanding debts. When their IVA was settled in January 2026, they were ready to look ahead and explore their options for buying a home and being closer to family.

The timing was important. With the IVA only recently settled, finding a lender prepared to consider their circumstances would require careful research and a clear understanding of individual lender criteria.

The journey to mortgage approval

Financial position reviewed Ben reviewed the clients' circumstances and their plans for purchasing a home.

IVA settled The clients successfully settled their Individual Voluntary Arrangement in January 2026.

Agreement in Principle approved An Agreement in Principle was approved shortly after the IVA had been settled, giving the clients confidence to continue their property search.

Property found The clients found a suitable property and were ready to move ahead with their purchase.

Mortgage application submitted The full mortgage application was prepared and submitted in April 2026.

Mortgage offer issued The application was approved and a mortgage offer was issued.

The challenge: a recently settled IVA

Although the clients had successfully settled their IVA, the relatively short period since settlement meant that their circumstances would not fit the criteria of every lender.

Rather than assuming that a recent IVA settlement meant they would need to wait before applying, Ben researched the available lending criteria and looked at which lenders could potentially consider their position.

Why specialist lender research mattered

Lender criteria can vary significantly when an applicant has a history of adverse credit. Some lenders may require a longer period following an IVA settlement, while others may be able to consider an application sooner, subject to their individual criteria.

Ben discussed the circumstances with lender Business Development Managers before identifying an option that could consider the case at up to 85% LTV, subject to the lender's criteria.

Finding the right mortgage option

Once the appropriate lender criteria had been identified, the clients were able to move forward with their plans. The Agreement in Principle provided reassurance that their circumstances could be considered before they found a property.

When a suitable property was found, Ben helped prepare the full application and supporting evidence. The mortgage application was submitted in April 2026 and subsequently approved.

What made the difference?

Recent IVA settlement The IVA had only recently been settled, making lender selection particularly important.

Careful research Lender criteria were reviewed to identify potential options suited to the clients' circumstances.

85% LTV option The selected lender could consider the circumstances at up to 85% LTV, subject to criteria.

Clear route forward The clients were able to proceed with their property purchase once a suitable mortgage option had been identified.

Our mortgage advisers can help clients explore potential options where their circumstances do not fit a standard lending profile.

Supporting the application

Throughout the process, Ben helped the clients understand what was required and worked through the additional considerations created by their recent financial history.

Reviewing the clients' financial circumstances
Understanding the impact of the previous financial difficulties
Checking specialist lender criteria
Discussing the case with lender Business Development Managers
Preparing the required supporting documentation
Guiding the clients through the mortgage application process

The key takeaway

An IVA can make obtaining a mortgage more difficult, particularly soon after it has been settled, but it does not necessarily mean that home ownership is out of reach.

Understanding the circumstances and identifying lenders with suitable criteria can make a significant difference when a mortgage application is not straightforward.

When the mortgage isn't straightforward

Cases involving an IVA or other adverse credit history can require more research than a standard mortgage application.

Ben's approach was to understand the clients' circumstances first, then research the available lender criteria before moving forward.

Speaking to a mortgage adviser early can help you understand what options may be available and whether there are steps that could strengthen your position before applying.

Need help with a complex mortgage?

If you have experienced financial difficulties, an IVA or other adverse credit, our team can help you understand the mortgage options that may be available based on your individual circumstances.

Speak to the HHH Mortgages team to discuss your circumstances.

Important Information

This case study is for illustrative purposes only. Mortgage availability, lender criteria and affordability will vary according to individual circumstances. An application for a mortgage is subject to lender criteria and approval.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

House & Holiday Home Mortgages Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Mortgage Intelligence Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, in respect of mortgage, insurance and consumer credit mediation activities only.