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Property Finance Advice for Sports Professionals

Enness have arranged mortgages for elite sports people from all corners of the sporting world. Many choose us for our discretion, care and diligence but also because we are renowned for securing the best terms for our client’s unique circumstances. 

The breadth of our offering includes;

  • Personalised solutions for both national and international elite sportspeople
  • Bespoke lending solutions for prime properties globally
  • High loan to value mortgages – up to 100% in some cases
  • Specialists in £1m+ mortgages
  • Comfortable with complex and seasonal income and wealth
  • Interest-only mortgages
  • Solutions for complex ownership structures
  • Hyper-personalised support
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Property Finance Advice for Sports Professionals

Sports Professional Mortgage FAQs

What are the challenges professional sportspeople usually face when seeking a mortgage?

Professional sportspeople can often encounter unique challenges when applying for a mortgage, primarily due to the non-traditional nature of their careers and their income.

Unlike a typical salaried employee, elite sportspeople and athletes can have fluctuating incomes, shorter career spans, and sometimes even gaps between earnings, especially during off season.

Lenders may perceive this as higher risk, requiring more robust financial documentation to approve a mortgage that many high street banks may be reluctant to consider.

Athletes also face challenges with employment stability, particularly if their contracts have fixed terms or if they depend heavily on sponsorships or other streams of income.

Having a bespoke mortgage broker that's familiar with these hurdles can help streamline the process and secure favourable terms faster.

How do fluctuating income streams affect mortgage applications for professional sportspeople?

Fluctuating income streams are a major consideration when sports professionals apply for a mortgage. As their earnings can be unpredictable due to performance bonuses, seasonal contracts, or sponsorship deals, traditional lenders may be hesitant to offer standard mortgages. Many high street lenders prefer borrowers with steady, predictable incomes, so it’s vital to work with a broker experienced in structuring mortgage applications for high-net-worth individuals with irregular incomes.

We work with a network of lenders who understand these complexities and offer flexible mortgage solutions that account for varying cash flows.

Can I secure a mortgage using income from sponsorships and endorsements?

Yes, income from sponsorships and endorsements can be considered when applying for a mortgage, but it may require specialised lenders. Traditional mortgage providers may not always count this type of income unless it has been consistent for several years and is contractually guaranteed.

To optimise your chances, a broker can help present your complete financial profile, including endorsement deals and sponsorship agreements, in a way that shows stability and sustainability of your income. We work with lenders who understand the diverse income streams of professional sportspeople and can offer solutions that fit your unique financial situation.

What mortgage options are available for sports professionals with short career spans?

Given that most professional athletes have typically short careers compared to traditional occupations, it's essential to secure a mortgage solution that aligns with this timeline.

Sports professionals can access options such as interest-only mortgages, which lower monthly payments by focusing on paying the interest rather than the principal.

Other flexible options might include higher loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages or bespoke arrangements that accommodate large, irregular lump sum payments.

As specialist brokers for sportspeople, we ensure athletes have access to products that suit their financial planning, both during and after their careers.

How quickly can I get approved for a mortgage?

The timeline for mortgage approval varies depending on several factors, including your financial documentation, the type of property you’re looking to purchase, and the lender’s requirements.

With a bespoke broker, the process can be expedited significantly. For professional athletes and elite sportspeople, time is often critical, especially during the off-season or transfer windows, so working with a broker who has access to a network of fast-acting lenders can help speed up the approval process.

In some cases, mortgages can be approved within a matter of weeks, especially when working with lenders experienced in high-value loans for high-net-worth individuals.

What types of properties can sports professionals get a mortgage for?

Sports professionals can obtain mortgages for a wide range of property types, from residential homes and luxury estates to investment properties and vacation homes. Whether you’re looking to secure a mortgage for a prime London property, a second home abroad, or an investment portfolio, we can source an array of bespoke mortgage solutions to suit your needs.

When you work with a broker who understands the intricacies of the market and your financial situation they can ensure that you secure the best deal, regardless of the property type.

How does being an international athlete impact the mortgage process?

International athletes often face additional complexities in the mortgage process, particularly if they earn income in multiple currencies or are considered non-residents in the country where they want to buy property. Currency fluctuations, tax implications, and residency status can all impact a mortgage application.

However, specialist lenders and mortgage brokers familiar with international clientele like ourselves can help navigate these hurdles, ensuring that you secure the best possible mortgage terms despite these additional layers of complexity.

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What documentation is required for sports professionals to secure a mortgage?

Sports professionals will need to provide documentation that proves their income, such as payslips, contract details, tax returns, and endorsement or sponsorship agreements.

In some cases, additional paperwork such as proof of investments, savings, and asset portfolios may be required, particularly for high-value mortgages.

Given the unique structure of an athlete’s income, lenders may request longer financial histories to assess income stability.

However, a mortgage broker is here to help you gather and present the necessary documents to ensure a smooth and efficient approval process.

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