THE UK has more self-employed workers than ever (4.8 million in total) and, according to Barratt Homes, the number wishing to buy new-build houses is rising.

Financial experts from Colchester-based The New Homes Group, which works with Louisburg Barracks developer Barratt Homes, said it was easier to secure a mortgage than many self-employed people think.

New Homes’ Adam Champion said there was plenty of opportunity for those with non-standard earnings to buy their own property in Bordon.

“In recent years lenders have been more than a little sceptical about taking the plunge by offering mortgages to those with finances that might fluctuate from year to year, or even month to month,” he said.

“But there are plenty of mortgage lenders offering finance and as long as buyers can prove their earnings they should have access to the same range of mortgages as any other buyer.”

There are many types of mortgages available to self-employed buyers - some from specialist lenders and some from high-street companies. Most lenders require two or three years of business accounts, but some will accept one year from those who have savings.