5 Things You Can Do to Help Secure a Mortgage When Going Through a Divorce or Separation

Divorce or separation can feel like your world’s been turned upside down — and trying to sort out a mortgage on top of everything else? Overwhelming doesn’t even cover it. But here’s the good news: there are things you can do right now to get yourself in the best possible position when it comes to buying a new home or taking over the mortgage on your own.

Here are five practical steps that can really make a difference.

1. Get a Clear Picture of Your Current Finances

Before you make any big decisions, it’s important to know exactly where you stand. Look at what you owe on the mortgage, what your home’s worth, and what other debts or joint commitments you have.

If you and your ex are both named on the mortgage, you’re both responsible for it until it’s changed — even if only one of you is living there. That’s the bit that catches a lot of people out. Your divorce decree doesn’t override your mortgage contract with the lender, so knowing what’s in your name (and what isn’t) will help you plan your next steps with confidence.

2. Don’t Rely on Your Ex to Cover the Mortgage

This one’s really important, and I can’t stress it enough. Even if your ex has agreed to keep paying their share, remember that lenders will hold both of you responsible for any missed payments. If the money doesn’t come in as expected, it’s your credit score that could take the hit too.

Try to make sure the payments are covered in full every month, regardless of whether maintenance or other contributions arrive on time. It might feel unfair — I know that — but protecting your credit record now will make a huge difference later when you’re applying for a mortgage in your own name.

3. Start Building Your Own Financial Profile

Once a joint mortgage or account starts to wind down, it’s a good idea to start separating things financially. Check your credit report with all three UK agencies — Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion — to make sure everything’s up to date and correct.

If you’ve got old joint accounts you no longer use, close them. Set up bills in your own name and keep things tidy. Lenders like to see clear, consistent financial history. It helps them build a picture of you as an independent borrower, which is exactly what you need when you’re applying on your own.

4. Speak to a Mortgage Adviser Early

Mortgage situations after a separation can be complicated — there’s no getting around that. Whether you want to buy your ex out, move somewhere new, or just get a sense of what’s possible on your own, chatting to a mortgage adviser early can save a lot of stress.

At Honey Financial Solutions, helping people through divorce and separation is what I specialise in — and it’s never about judgement or pressure. Just honest, practical advice to help you work out what’s achievable and how best to get there. The earlier we can have that conversation, the more options we can explore together.

5. Get Your Paperwork in Order

It might not sound exciting, but having your documents ready really does help when it comes to applying for a mortgage. You’ll usually need a few recent payslips, bank statements, and proof of any maintenance or benefits you receive.

If your income situation is changing, gather as much proof as you can to show consistency — lenders like evidence and preparation. The more organised you are now, the smoother the whole process will be later on. Trust me on this one.

Final Thoughts

Divorce and separation are tough — I see it every day in my work, and I understand how hard it is. But sorting your mortgage doesn’t have to be another thing that overwhelms you. With the right guidance, good organisation, and a bit of planning, you can move forward with confidence and start building a fresh chapter on your own terms.

If you’re in this situation and want a friendly chat about your options, I’m always happy to help — no jargon, no judgement, just clear advice tailored to you.

Get in touch with Honey Financial Solutions /www.honeyfinancial.co.uk/07739 338998 today to discuss your mortgage options.

A mortgage loan will be secured against your home or property.