Getting a new job offer can be exciting – especially if it comes with a better salary, work-life balance, or career prospects. But what if it happens while you’re right in the middle of buying a home? Many buyers ask: is changing job before mortgage completion a good idea? Changing job before mortgage completion can raise concerns for lenders and even risk your approval. In this guide, we explore the potential risks, lender requirements, and best practices to help you protect your homebuying plans if you’re considering a move.
How job changes can influence your mortgage approval
Mortgage lenders assess your employment status as a key indicator of financial stability. Changing jobs during mortgage application — or just before funds are released — can introduce risk in the eyes of a lender. Lenders in Ireland typically want you to be in permanent, full-time employment and to have completed any probation period (usually 6 months) before they’re happy to release the funds.
When your employment situation changes mid-process, the lender may have to re-evaluate your income security, delaying or even derailing your mortgage approval.
Can you change jobs while applying for a mortgage?
Technically, yes, but it’s not without risk. There are conditions where it may be acceptable — and others where it might cause delays or even rejection.
When it’s usually okay:
- You’re moving to a similar role in the same industry with equal or higher pay.
- Your new employer is willing to waive the probation period or provide a letter confirming permanent employment status.
When it raises red flags:
- You’re switching industries or job functions entirely.
- You’re moving to part-time, contract or self-employed work.
- Your new position includes a probation period with no waiver.
Probation periods are a major concern. Most lenders won’t release mortgage funds until you’ve completed probation or secured written confirmation it will be waived.
Changing job before mortgage completion: what lenders look for
The risk of job changes close to completion date
Changing jobs right before mortgage completion can lead to delays, reassessments, or, in some cases, a full stop to your mortgage application. Even a last-minute switch can mean your lender will want fresh documentation, proof of your new employment and re-evaluation of your financial stability.
What documents and proof of employment lenders might ask for
Be ready to provide:
- Signed new employment contract
- Confirmation of start date
- Letter from your new employer confirming: job title, salary, terms of employment and probation status
- Updated payslips (once available)
Be prepared to provide any additional proof that your new role offers the same or improved financial security.
What happens if you change jobs after mortgage approval?
Changing jobs after mortgage approval but before completion can complicate things but isn’t necessarily the end of the road. Lenders in Ireland often reserve the right to review your financial situation again before releasing funds.
Potential outcomes include:
- Delay completion while they review your new employment
- Requests for updated details – employment and salary information
- Risk mortgage withdrawal if your new role doesn’t meet lending criteria
Keep in mind: changing jobs after mortgage approval in Ireland is treated differently by various lenders, so transparency and proactive communication is essential. Talk to your Mortgage Broker.
Changing jobs and getting a mortgage: best practices
Changing jobs while navigating the mortgage process doesn’t have to spell disaster — but it does require careful handling. With the right timing, open communication, and updated documentation, you can still secure mortgage approval without major delays. Here are some essential best practices to follow if you’re changing roles while applying for a mortgage.
Timing your job change if a mortgage is in progress
Ideally, hold off on changing jobs until after your mortgage has completed and you’ve got the keys in hand. If that’s not possible, plan the timing carefully and discuss options with your mortgage broker early.
Communicating openly with your lender
Will changing jobs affect getting a mortgage? Possibly — but being upfront helps. Always notify your lender or broker immediatelly if you’re thinking of making a move. Surprises during the process don’t go down well when large sums of money are involved!
Getting pre-approval again if needed
If your employment change is significant, your lender may require decides to reassess your application. You may need to submit updated documentation and secure fresh mortgage pre-approval based on your new employment.
What to do if you’ve already changed jobs
If you’ve already accepted a new job or started a new position during your mortgage application, don’t panic — but do act fast. Lenders value transparency, and swift communication can help protect your approval status.
Actions to take if you’ve switched jobs mid-process
If you’ve already accepted a new job while applying for a mortgage, act quickly:
- Notify your lender or broker immediately
- Provide a signed employment contract
- Submit a confirmation letter of permanent role and salary
- Clarify your probation period and whether it can be waived.
When to notify your lender / Mortgage Broker
The golden rule: as soon as you know a change is coming. Even if it’s just an offer letter, early communication helps avoid nasty surprises down the line.
Supporting documentation to strengthen your application
To reduce risk:
- Get a letter from your new employer confirming permanent, full-time status
- Proof of new salary details and employment terms
- Request written confirmation that your probation period is waived or will be short
These documents go a long way in demonstrating that your financial stability remains intact. For a full list of the documents required for mortgage, check our handy guide.
Final tips to reduce the risk of mortgage issues
- Avoid switching jobs right before completion if you can.
- Maintain complete transparency with your broker and lender at every stage.
- Speak to your mortgage broker if you’re even considering a job change.
- Always get professional advice if you’re unsure of the impact.
- Ask your broker: “Can I change job after mortgage approval?” They’ll guide you through your specific case.
We also recommend brushing up on how long does it take to get a mortgage approved, so you have a good sense of your timeline.
How MortgageLine can support you through job changes and mortgage approval
At MortgageLine, we understand that life doesn’t always follow a tidy timeline. Our team is here to offer expert advice, liaise with lenders, and help navigate any bumps in the road – including those tricky job changes. As the best mortgage company for first time buyers, we work closely with lenders to minimise delays and keep your mortgage journey on track.
Whether you need an initial free chat or hands-on help with your application, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Find out what a mortgage broker can do for you today.
FAQs
How long do you need to be employed to get a mortgage in Ireland?
Most lenders prefer you to be in full-time permanent employment and past your probation period (usually 6 months). However, exceptions can be made depending on your industry, role, and the lender’s flexibility.
What will stop me from getting a mortgage?
Biggest culprits include poor credit history, unstable employment, insufficient income, and lack of proper documentation. Lenders need to see that you’re a low-risk borrower.
Need help navigating a mortgage while changing jobs? Contact MortgageLine today for expert advice and a free mortgage review call.
