Research from LendInvest Mortgages has revealed the professional toll of the UK’s rigid lending landscape, revealing that nearly a quarter of aspiring homeowners are sacrificing their career happiness to secure a mortgage.
Conducted by Opinium Research in the autumn of 2025, the survey of 1,000 UK adults seeking to purchase or remortgage a home within the next 5 years, revealed that 23% of respondents said they have remained in a job they dislike to increase their chance of getting a mortgage.
One in five (19%) revealed that they have taken a higher salary over their dream job, to appear more “lendable” to mortgage providers, and that rises to one-quarter (25%) of 18-34 year olds. The research also found that 13% of respondents delayed or cancelled plans to start their own business, and 12% delayed or cancelled plans to become self-employed or freelance for the same reason.
The data highlights a growing disconnect between today’s modern homebuyer and high street banks. With 35% of applicants feeling discouraged by traditional lenders due to their employment status, rising to 40% for the 18-34 demographic
The emotional toll is clear in the data as well, with one-third (33%) of borrowers feeling 'judged' by traditional lenders.
Furthermore, 33% revealed that they felt “judged” by mortgage providers.
Commenting on the research, Paula Mercer, Sales Director at LendInvest, says: “This data confirms that the profile of today’s modern homebuyer is changing, and high street lending criteria remains rigid.
Making important career decisions shouldn’t get in the way of applying for a mortgage. That’s why specialist lenders like LendInvest can be an important resource to mortgage intermediaries and brokers.
We’ve recently enhanced our residential lending criteria, free from the high street rigidity. We can take into account complex income streams and employment structures, including the self-employed. Our modern approach to underwriting factors in credit histories, not a credit score, and we will remain committed to supporting all types of borrowers in achieving their goals of purchasing or remortgaging a home.”
