Working as a locum gives you flexibility and often higher pay, but when it comes to buying a home, you might worry that your variable income will count against you. The good news is that you absolutely can get a mortgage as an NHS locum doctor or nurse—you just need to know how lenders view your situation and what documentation they'll want to see.
Understanding how lenders assess locum income
Mortgage lenders need to be confident you can afford repayments both now and in the future. If you work through NHS bank shifts with PAYE deductions, lenders will typically assess your income using your payslips and P60, much like any employed worker. However, if you're self-employed or work through an agency, the process differs slightly.
Most lenders want to see at least 6 to 12 months of consistent income history through payslips. Some more flexible lenders will consider as little as 3 months of bank shifts if you can demonstrate regular work patterns. If you're self-employed, you'll typically need up to two years of accounts or SA302 forms from HMRC, though specialist lenders may be more flexible.
What documentation you'll need
Gather your paperwork early to streamline your application. This includes all payslips from the past year, your most recent P60, bank statements showing regular income deposits, and any contracts demonstrating ongoing work. If you've transitioned from permanent NHS work to locum positions, highlight your employment history—lenders often view this favourably as it shows career progression within a stable sector.
Making the most of your NHS income
Don't forget to include all elements of your NHS pay when applying. Many locum workers supplement their basic rate with unsocial hours payments, bank shifts, and overtime. Specialist mortgage brokers understand how to present complex NHS pay structures to lenders in the most favourable light, potentially increasing your borrowing power significantly.
Government schemes to help
As an NHS worker, you're part of one of the largest workforces in the UK, and various government schemes can support your home purchase. The 2025 Mortgage Guarantee Scheme enables first-time buyers and home movers to purchase properties up to £600,000 with just a 5% deposit. This government-backed guarantee helps lenders offer these products more widely, making homeownership more accessible even if you haven't saved a large deposit yet.
Why specialist brokers matter
Consider working with a mortgage broker who specialises in NHS professionals. They understand that your locum work isn't precarious—it's a respected, in-demand role within the healthcare system. These brokers know which lenders are most flexible with locum income and can present your application to maximise approval chances. They also have access to exclusive products and higher lending multiples that aren't available on the high street.
Contact us today to discuss your specific circumstances and discover which mortgage products suit your needs best.
