Free Mortgage Capacity Report & Estimate for Mediation
A mortgage capacity estimate tells you, in a realistic range, how much you could borrow for a mortgage on your own after separation. Our free estimator gives you that figure in about two minutes. It isn't the same as a formal Mortgage Capacity Report used in court — but for opening the financial conversation in mediation, it's a credible, no-cost starting point. Below we explain the difference between the two, what drives the number, and how to read it.
What is a mortgage capacity estimate?
An estimate is an indicative calculation of the maximum mortgage you could realistically obtain, based on the figures you provide — your income, outgoings, debts, age and circumstances. It applies the same lending principles a mainstream lender uses, such as income multiples and the term to retirement, but it's automated and unverified. It's designed to give you a realistic ballpark quickly and for free, so you can start planning.
What is a Mortgage Capacity Report (MCR)?
A Mortgage Capacity Report is a formal written expert report prepared for family law proceedings. It complies with Part 25 of the Family Procedure Rules, which governs expert evidence, and carries a statement of truth and the expert's duty to the court. It sets out, with reasoning, how much each party could borrow, and is used by solicitors, mediators and judges when dividing assets and deciding who can afford to rehouse. Unlike an estimate, it can be relied on as evidence and filed with the court. Help Network produces these for £99, delivered within 24 hours.
Estimate or report — which do I need?
Use the free estimate to understand your rough position and to start discussions in mediation. Commission a full report when your matter is heading to court, when a solicitor or judge asks for formal evidence, or when a figure needs to withstand scrutiny. Many people begin with the estimate and move to the report once their case formalises.
What factors influence your mortgage capacity the most?
Your income is the single biggest driver — lenders typically advance around 4.25 to 5 times your gross annual income, and employed, self-employed and other income are weighted differently. Your age and mortgage term matter next: most lenders expect the mortgage repaid by around retirement age, so the fewer years you have until then, the shorter the term and the lower the amount can be. Existing debts — loans, credit cards and car finance — reduce what's available. Maintenance cuts both ways: maintenance you pay reduces your capacity, while maintenance you receive can sometimes count as income, but usually only where it's confirmed by a court order or the Child Maintenance Service. Financial dependents reduce affordability, adverse credit (CCJs, defaults, IVAs) narrows the lenders and the amount available, and your deposit or equity — often from the split of the family home — affects both the loan you need and the rates open to you.
Is a high or a low mortgage capacity better in a divorce?
There's no universally "good" number — what helps depends on your position. If you want to keep the family home or buy your ex out, a higher capacity is an advantage, because it shows you can raise the funds to do it. If you're seeking spousal maintenance or a larger share of the assets, a lower capacity can support your case, because it shows you can't simply borrow your way to a solution and need more from the settlement. Either way, the figure that serves you best is a realistic and credible one. An over-inflated number can be challenged and can undermine your position; an artificially low one won't survive scrutiny either. Mediators and courts respond to figures that are honest and properly reasoned — which is exactly why a realistic estimate, and where needed a formal report, carries more weight than an optimistic high-street bank calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the mortgage capacity estimate really free?
Yes. The estimate is completely free and takes about two minutes, with no charge and no obligation.
Can I use a free estimate in court?
No. A free estimate is indicative and intended for guidance and mediation only. For court, you need a formal Mortgage Capacity Report that complies with FPR Part 25.
What's the difference between an estimate and a Mortgage Capacity Report?
The estimate is completely free and takes about two minutes, with no charge and no obligation. It is purely for use in Mediation. A full mortgage Capacity Report is a requirement for full court.
How much does a full Mortgage Capacity Report cost?
Help Network's Mortgage Capacity Report is £99 and is delivered within 24 hours.
Does maintenance count towards how much I can borrow?
Maintenance you pay reduces your capacity. Maintenance you receive can sometimes count as income, but usually only where it's confirmed by a court order or the Child Maintenance Service.
Why is my capacity lower than my bank's calculator says?
Bank calculators often show the maximum under ideal conditions. A divorce-focused estimate is deliberately realistic and reflects the commitments and circumstances lenders actually apply — which is the figure that stands up in mediation.
What should I want my affordability to be?
To be 100% clear, the best affordability figure is the honest one. 90% of people want the figure to be low, since a lower affordability than the other party can lead to a higher allocation of joint assets. Others want to prove they are able to take over the house, and so will want a figure that support their position. The best advice is to be as honest as possible with what you tell your report writer, warts and all. An accurate and fully supported report is your best weapon in court and for realistic planning after separation.