Self Build Mortgages > Best UK Self Build Mortgage Lenders

Best Self Build Mortgage Lenders in the UK 2025

Who are the best Self Build Mortgage lenders in the UK?

If you’re planning to build your own home in 2025, you’re probably already deep in research mode. And that means choosing the right lender for your self build mortgage.

The best self build mortgage lender for you will depend on your situation, your build plans, and how much flexibility or support you need. So we’re here to break it down.

And of course, we’ll also explain why Mayflower Mortgages has been named Best Self Build Mortgage Advisory Firm 2025 by the Design and Build Awards, as well as being a finalist at both Mortgage Strategy Awards for Best Specialist Broker and the Financial Reporter awards for Best Specialist Broker.

What is a Self Build Mortgage?

A If you’re new to self build mortgages, then as a top-line overview, rather than borrowing a lump sum upfront (like a traditional mortgage), self build mortgages release your funds in stages. These usually line up with key construction milestones like laying the foundations, getting the roof of, or installing windows.

Lenders do this to reduce their risk and to make sure your project is progressing to plan. It also helps ensure you only pay interest on what you’ve borrowed so far.

Check out our Self and Custom Build Mortgages page for more information.

The different types of Self Build Mortgage lenders

When looking for the best self build mortgage lender, it helps to understand the different types of lenders that are available. Currently, none of the large retail High Street Banks offer Self Build Mortgages. So you have two main options:

Building Societies

Many building societies in the UK offer great self build mortgage options. These lenders tend to be more flexible in how they assess applications.

Pros:

  • Often more open to non-standard projects

  • May allow stage releases in advance (not just arrears)

Cons:

  • Rates and product ranges vary widely

Specialist Lenders

Specialist mortgage lenders like private banks focus on unique and more high end projects.

Pros:

  • Deep understanding of the the net worth client

  • More tailored options and flexible underwriting

Cons:

  • Not always accessible to every one.

What do the best Self Build Mortgage lenders offer?

Flexible stage payments

Some lenders only release funds after each stage is complete (arrears payments), which means you’ll need savings to cover the upfront costs. Others offer advance stage payments, which can improve your cash flow during the build.

Clear criteria & fast turnaround

Look for a lender that’s clear about their process, has a reputation for quick decisions, and offers good communication along the way.

Dedicated Self Build support

Some lenders have specialist teams that only handle self build mortgages. And trust us, this makes a huge difference in how smoothly your application goes.

Specialist understanding

If you’re doing something unique (like a barn conversion, off-grid home or using modern methods of construction), you’ll want a lender that understands these projects and won’t penalise you for doing something different.

How to choose the right Self Build Mortgage lender

Every self build project and borrower is different, so the right lender is a personal choice to you. But here’s how to work out what lender might suit you the best:

  • Think about cash flow. Do you need advance stage payments to keep your project moving, or can you fund each stage upfront?

  • Consider your deposit. If you have a larger deposit saved, you’ll have more choice. But some lenders may work with less.

  • Factor in your timeline. If you’re ready to move quickly, you’ll want a lender with a straightforward application process.

  • Be honest about complexity. If your project is unusual or in a remote area, you’ll need a lender who’s comfortable with that, and has the specialist experience to help you.

  • Get expert help. A specialist broker can help you compare your options, negotiate the best deal, and avoid wasting time on unsuitable lenders.

Why work with Mayflower Mortgage?

We’re proud to have been named:

  • Best Self Build Mortgage Advisory Firm 2025 – Design and Build Awards

  • Finalist, Best Specialist Broker – 2025 Mortgage Strategy Awards.

  • Finalist, Best Specialist Broker - 2025 Financial Reporter Awards.

At Mayflower Mortgages, Self and Custom Build projects are our speciality. We have dedicated underwriters with lenders and our own exclusive products.

We know how to get complex projects approved. Our job is to match you with the lender that fits your situation best. And this isn’t just in terms of rate, but also in terms of flexibility, support, and long-term success.

If you’re not sure where to start, we offer free consultations to talk through your plans and help you figure out your next step.

You can visit our Self Build Mortgage page to learn more, or book a free call with one of our expert advisers.

  • Winner badge

    Best Self Build Mortgage Advisory Firm

    Design and Build Awards 2025

  • Finalist badge

    Best Specialist Broker

    Finalist at the 2025 Mortgage Strategy Awards

  • Best Specialist Broker

    Finalist at the 2025 Financial Reporter Awards

Ready to take the next step?

We’ve helped hundreds of self builders find the right lender and secure the best deal possible for their project. And we’d love you to be next. You can get a FREE personalised quote today and see how we can support your self build journey.

How can we support your self build journey?

Frequently asked questions

  • It depends on the type of build, your deposit, your timeline, and your appetite for project management. Some lenders are more hands-on than others, some only lend at specific stages, and some won’t fund certain types of builds. That’s why it’s so important to speak to a specialist like us, as we can match you with the right lender based on your exact project.

  • Self build lenders expect you to have planning permission in place before approving your application. There are a few specialist lenders who may consider lending based on outline permission or if you’re in the early stages, but the number is limited and it can affect your rates or deposit requirements.

  • If you go directly to a lender, you’re only seeing one option. A broker like Mayflower compares self build mortgage lenders, so you get access to a much wider market. Plus, we handle all the paperwork and make sure your application is tailored o suit the lender ensuring a smooth underwriting process

  • In theory yes, but in practice it’s tricky. Most self build mortgages are designed to last the duration of the project, and switching mid-build can cause delays or funding gaps. But, once your build is complete, you can usually re-mortgage onto a better deal. We usually help clients move onto a ‘standard’ mortgage, which typically has better rates, after their build is complete as part of their long-term financial plan.