I'm employed on a contract. Can I still get a mortgage?

Q Like many newly qualified junior university lecturers, I am on a fixed-term six month contract. My past contract was also for six months and it is likely to be renewed again next year on a rolling six monthly basis. Would mortgage lenders consider someone with a short fixed-term contract for a mortgage? I have savings that would cover about 10% to 15% of a deposit if that helps. LC

A Some lenders can be a bit sniffy about contract workers - but not all. And the fact that you have a sizeable deposit is a distinct advantage, as is the fact that your contract has already been renewed once by the same employer. However, being able to show regular contract renewal over a two-year period will give you access to a greater number of lenders willing to give you a mortgage.

If you are keen to get on the property ladders as soon as possible, you might want use an independent mortgage adviser such as London & Country (www.lcplc.co.uk) to find you a willing lender and also advise on other things you can do to help you get a good deal, such as asking your parents to act as guarantors.