What Is a Private Bank Mortgage (and Should You Consider One)?
DIRECTOR AND MORTGAGE ADVISER
Specialist broker for high-earning professionals and complex income cases.
When your borrowing needs exceed the norm — whether you're purchasing a high-value property or have a complex income profile — a high street lender might not be the best fit.
That’s where private bank mortgages come in. These are bespoke lending solutions designed for high-net-worth clients who need more flexibility than mainstream lenders typically offer.
Request your fee free mortgage consultation today. No obligation, just sound advice.
What Is a Private Bank Mortgage?
A private bank mortgage is a loan offered by a private bank or specialist lender, typically for:
Loans over £1 million
Clients with significant assets or wealth
Individuals with complex income (bonuses, carried interest, foreign currency, trusts, etc.)
These lenders don’t rely solely on rigid affordability formulas. Instead, they look at your overall financial profile — including your assets, income potential, investment portfolio, and long-term relationship value..
Who Are Private Bank Mortgages For?
Private bank mortgages may suit:
Equity partners at law or accountancy firms
Finance professionals with carried interest, deferred bonuses, or foreign income
Entrepreneurs with liquidity but irregular income
High Net Worth Individuals buying multi-million-pound properties
Foreign nationals or expats with international assets or earnings
If your financial situation doesn’t fit neatly into a mainstream lender’s criteria — or you’re borrowing at a higher level — private banking can offer more tailored underwriting.
How We’ve Helped Clients Like You
These clients faced similar challenges - here’s how we helped them secure the right deal.
Key Features of Private Bank Mortgages
Loan Size - Typically £1m+
Underwriting - Manual, bespoke — based on wealth and profile, not just salary
Income Flexibility - Carried interest, RSUs, overseas income, and trust distributions can count
Interest Rates - Often competitive, but can vary — may require assets under management (AUM)
Repayment Options - Interest-only or capital & interest, with flexible structuring
Relationship-Based - You may be expected to move assets or invest with the bank
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What Are the Pros and Cons of Private Bank Mortgages?
Pros:
Flexible underwriting – tailored to your specific income and asset structure
Larger loans available – often up to 80–85% LTV on £1m+ properties and up to 95% in some cases
Access to bespoke structuring – including interest-only, bullet repayments, and foreign currency loans
Private client service – more personal, with direct banker relationships
Cons:
Assets under management may be required, though many now offer ‘dry lending’ options
Longer process – private underwriting can take more time than automated approvals
Not always the cheapest – while rates can be competitive, some deals reflect the tailored nature of the lending
How to Access a Private Bank Mortgage
Private banks don’t usually advertise mortgage products publicly. Instead, they work via:
Introducers – like mortgage brokers, wealth managers, or private client lawyers
Referral – from within your existing banking or investment relationship
A specialist broker can introduce you to the right bank, help structure your income presentation, and negotiate the terms — including whether AUM is required.
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Conclusion: Is a Private Bank Mortgage Right for You?
If you’re borrowing £1m+ or have income that doesn’t fit the standard mould, a private bank mortgage could offer the flexibility and terms you need — especially if you value a more bespoke approach.
Not sure if you qualify for private banking?
We’ve helped equity partners, entrepreneurs, and high earners secure flexible terms from private banks across the UK.
Request your fee free mortgage consultation today. No obligation, just sound advice.
FAQs
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Not necessarily — while many private banks target HNWIs, some will lend from £500k+ if your profile is suitable.
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Often, yes. Private banks may consider income that mainstream lenders won’t, and can stretch affordability based on net worth and assets.
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AUM stands for “Assets Under Management”. Some private banks require you to invest a portion of your wealth (e.g. £250k–£500k) with them in return for bespoke lending terms.
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It can take longer than a standard mortgage, as underwriting is more detailed — but the flexibility and service can make it worthwhile for the right client.
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Yes — many private banks can offer loans in USD, EUR, or other currencies if you’re paid overseas or buying an international property.
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APPROVED BY THE OPENWORK PARTNERSHIP ON 14/07/2025