A Solution That Means Pupil Barristers Don’t Need to Wait Two Years to Get on the Property Ladder

Every year, as September and October approach, aspiring barristers prepare to begin their pupillage. For many, this exciting professional milestone coincides with another significant goal: purchasing a first home.

But all too often, pupil barristers are told the same outdated line: “You’ll need two years of accounts before you can get a mortgage.”

At Henry Dannell, we’re here to tell you that’s not true.

The Myth of the ‘Two-Year Rule’

Do Pupil Barristers Need Two Years of Accounts to Get a Mortgage?

Because barristers are self-employed from the outset of their careers, there’s a common assumption that lenders won’t entertain a mortgage application until you’ve built up two years of trading history. While this may be the case with many high street banks, it’s not a blanket rule, and it certainly doesn’t reflect the reality of the whole mortgage market.

There are specialist lenders, including several progressive building societies and challenger banks, that take a more forward-thinking approach. And that’s exactly where we come in.

Mortgages Based on Your Pupillage Income

Can You Get a Mortgage During Pupillage? Yes, Here’s How.

Once pupillage has commenced and your income is established, some lenders will accept it as a reliable basis for assessing your affordability.

We can help you secure a mortgage based on:

• Your guaranteed pupillage award, even if you have only just started.
• Your chambers offer a letter confirming your start date and remuneration
• The strength and stability of your career trajectory, including your likely tenancy prospects

Some lenders recognise that securing pupillage is not just a starting point, but a strong indicator of future earning potential. The competitive nature of the Bar, combined with your academic and professional achievements, signals both sustainability and a steep upward income trajectory. Certain lenders are prepared to lend based on that future potential rather than current earnings alone.

How We Support You as a  Pupil Barrister to Buy a Property Sooner

At Henry Dannell, we’ve advised many pupil barristers at the very beginning of their careers. We understand the unique position you’re in: recently qualified, often with a deposit saved, and eager to step onto the property ladder as your professional life takes shape.

Here’s what we do differently:

• We place you with lenders who welcome newly qualified professionals, even without two years of tax returns or accounts
• We help you build the strongest case, using your pupillage income and supporting documents to evidence future income
• We advise you on realistic borrowing options, including how your circumstances will evolve post-pupillage and into full practice

In some cases, we can even arrange mortgage offers that run alongside your pupillage timeline, giving you the flexibility to complete once you’re a few months into the role.

No Need to Put Your Plans on Hold

Your career as a barrister is just beginning, but that doesn’t mean your property ambitions need to wait. Whether you’re relocating for pupillage, moving closer to chambers, or investing in your first home, we’re here to help you make it happen now, not in two years.

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Please note: A mortgage is secured against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it. Mortgage deals may not be available, and lending is subject to individual circumstances and status.