How much could I borrow?

Mortgages are meant to make buying property easier. But all too often, borrowers can forget to include even the most basic details on a mortgage application - from omitting a current address to misspelling their name! So when arranging a mortgage, it pays to do your homework and avoid these common application mistakes.

1. 1. Forgetting to prove it’s your home
   You know where you live - but that doesn't mean your mortgage provider does! 18%* of people forget to include proof of address with their mortgage application - but this is essential to make sure we can contact you when processing your mortgage.
2. 2. Forgetting to pay for the survey
   You wouldn't take your shopping home without paying for it - so why apply for a mortgage without paying for the survey and product fees? Amazingly, 17%* of people do. But to make sure your mortgage application can be processed, it's essential to pay this fee.
3. 3. Losing your last pay slip
   We may need to see your last three payslips before processing your mortgage application - but 14%* of mortgage applications come without one. Your latest payslip gives us an idea of how much capital you're bringing in each month, helping us determine the type of mortgage that might be suitable for you - so don't lose it!
4. 4. Forgetting your bank statement
   Another 14%* of people forget to submit their last bank statement with their mortgage application. But this is crucial, as your salary credit as shown by your statement could be a deciding factor in the outcome of your application.
5. 5. Not saying which mortgage you actually want
   Unbelievably, 11%* of mortgage applications don't specify which mortgage they're applying for. Your mortgage provider can do a lot of things - but they can't read your mind! Tell us what type of mortgage product you're interested in so we can cater to your needs accordingly.
6. 6. Not telling your provider why you need a remortgage
   Why are you remortgaging your home? Is it to reduce your mortgage payments or to get a better rate? Are you cashing out to buy another house or tend to a large expense? 6%* of remortgage applications won't say - but whatever the reason, your mortgage provider needs to know.
7. 7. Forgetting to sign the application form
   'Sign on the dotted line': it's a simple concept. Yet a mind-boggling 6% forget to sign their mortgage application. Check (and double check) your mortgage application to ensure you've signed all the necessary documents.
8. 8. Forgetting to sign your trading accounts
   Just as with your mortgage application, your provider can't get very far without your signature. 4%* will forget to sign their trading accounts - so ensure that this is done before proceeding with your mortgage application.
9. 9. Forgetting who is lending you the money
   When it comes to processing your mortgage application, the more relevant information you can provide, the better. If you're dealing with an outside lender, make sure to supply your mortgage provider with their policy - 3%* of mortgage applications don't.
10. 10. If you own a business don’t forget to tell your provider
    If you own a portion of a business, your mortgage provider needs to know just how large or small that portion is. 2%* of mortgage applications won't say so - but supplying a percentage of the business owned in your application will ensure that your mortgage provider can find the most applicable deal for you.

If you're in the process of applying for a mortgage, don't make the same mistakes! Keep a simple checklist to ensure you're doing everything right on your mortgage application, or consult the Barclays Mortgage calculator for help.

* Figures taken from Barclays survey "Top 10 Repairs by Channel 2008"