By James Evans, Director, TouchPoint Mortgages.
If you’re a professional athlete — whether you’re playing football, rugby, or any sport at a high level — getting a mortgage isn’t always as straightforward as it should be.
Yes, you might earn well above the average salary. But if your income is short-term, irregular, or contract-based, some lenders might treat you as high risk — even when you’re financially stable.
This guide breaks down the realities of getting a mortgage as a sports professional, the challenges you might face, and how TouchPoint Mortgages can help.
Even though you might be earning a strong income, many lenders are cautious because:
Your earnings may be tied to short-term contracts
You might earn bonuses, sponsorships, or appearance fees
There could be large fluctuations from season to season
Retirement from sport can come earlier than most careers
Traditional banks often apply rigid criteria that don’t fit the reality of an athletic career — and that can make it harder to get approve
We regularly speak to sports clients who:
Have been turned down despite earning six figures
Are advised they need three years of accounts
Struggle to get lenders to accept endorsement or prize income
Are penalised for their short career span
Want to buy property now but plan to move post-retirement
Sound familiar?
💬 That’s where working with an experienced broker who understands specialist lending criteria becomes essential.
At TouchPoint Mortgages, we work with lenders who understand:
Short and fixed-term contracts (even 1–2 years)
Large seasonal income variation
Self-employed athletes with multiple income sources
Sponsorship, prize money, image rights
Future earning potential — not just historical data
We’ll help package your case to the right lender and get you a mortgage that suits your lifestyle both now and in the years to come.
🏡 Already own a home? Visit our Remortgages page to see if we can help reduce your payments or release equity.
📦 Planning to move? Our Homemovers page lays out everything you need to know.
Here are a few unique things we help our sporting clients with:
Career planning: Choosing a mortgage term that won’t extend past retirement
Protection planning: Ensuring income protection or life insurance is in place
Property investment: Helping clients build a buy-to-let portfolio while income is high
Post-retirement options: Reviewing remortgage or property sale strategies down the line
Whether you’re early in your career or nearing the end of your contract, it’s never too soon to start planning properly.
At TouchPoint, we offer tailored advice for athletes across West Sussex and beyond. We know your time is limited — that’s why we do the research, speak to underwriters on your behalf, and keep the process simple and efficient.
You won’t have to repeat yourself or deal with endless admin — we’re your personal team off the pitch.
📍 Based locally? Speak to a mortgage advisor in Littlehampton or Rustington
If you’re a professional athlete looking to buy your first home, invest in property, or remortgage — you need a mortgage advisor who understands your world.
At TouchPoint Mortgages, we’ll help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity — so you can focus on what you do best.
👉 Start your journey with TouchPoint Mortgages
👉 Read our guide on porting your mortgage if you’re moving
👉 Or explore remortgage options
Send your message and we will be in touch, alternatively you can book an appointment to chat to one of our team.
