Unlock your mortgage potential with bonus income & restricted stock units

For many professionals in the UK particularly in finance, consulting and the tech sector, total compensation goes well beyond base salary. Annual bonuses and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) often form a substantial part of income, yet they are frequently misunderstood or underutilised in mortgage applications.

At Versed Financial, we specialise in advising clients with complex income structures. We provide tailored mortgage strategies that take full account of bonuses and RSUs, ensuring they are recognised by the right lenders at the right levels.

Why Variable Income Matters in Mortgage PlanninG

When assessing mortgage affordability, lenders categorise income as either guaranteed (your base salary) or variable (bonuses, commission, RSUs and similar earnings). While guaranteed income is straightforward, variable income is assessed more conservatively. It can, however, be included if it is presented correctly and backed by the right documentation.

We often see high earning professionals being offered less favourable borrowing terms simply because their bonus or equity income was not properly factored into their application. With the right guidance, this income can unlock significantly higher borrowing power and improved mortgage options.

How Lenders View Bonuses and RSUs

Not all lenders treat variable income the same way. Some will include 100% of your bonus if there’s a consistent track record over two or more years. Others will only use 50%, or the lower of your last two years' figures. Some high street lenders may exclude RSUs altogether unless they are already vested and liquidated.

RSUs in particular require more nuanced treatment. While their value may be considerable, many lenders will only consider them if you can demonstrate a consistent vesting schedule and previous sales history. The nature of your employment contract, the company’s stock performance, and your ability to liquidate shares are all taken into account.

This is where expert advice becomes critical.

Versed Financial: Expert Navigation of Lender Criteria

We maintain a constantly updated understanding of lender policy across high street banks, private lenders, and specialist providers. We know:

• Which lenders accept RSU income and at what thresholds

• How bonuses can be averaged for maximum borrowing potential

• What supporting documents are needed and how best to present them

• Which underwriters are experienced with equity-heavy compensation

We ensure that your application reflects your true financial position without overstating or underselling your income.

Strategic Ways to Use Bonuses and RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS in the Mortgage Process

Increasing Your Borrowing Capacity

If your base salary does not stretch far enough especially in high value markets like London or the South East then bonus and RSU income can make a significant difference. When properly presented, this income can increase your mortgage affordability and give you access to properties that better match your goals.

Enhancing Your Deposit

Liquidating vested RSUs or using your bonus towards your deposit can improve your loan-to-value ratio. This often results in more competitive interest rates and greater lender choice, as well as stronger negotiating power with sellers.

Reducing Debt and Strengthening Your Profile

Using a bonus to clear credit card balances or personal loans reduces your monthly commitments and improves your debt-to-income ratio. This can lead to better mortgage terms or increase the amount you're eligible to borrow.

Demonstrating Financial Stability

Consistent bonus or RSU income supported by payslips, P60s, vesting schedules or brokerage statements can position you as a low risk applicant. Even if your compensation package appears complex, we help you present it clearly and credibly to lenders who understand your sector.

Why Bespoke Advice Matters

Mortgage lenders apply policy, not judgment. Unless your income is packaged in a way that fits their criteria, valuable compensation can be ignored entirely. That’s why working with a specialist adviser makes all the difference.

At Versed Financial, we build bespoke mortgage strategies for professionals with complex, performance based income. We liaise directly with underwriters, shape your application with precision, and secure terms that reflect your true borrowing power.

Let’s Put Your Compensation to Work

Whether you're buying your first property, moving up the ladder or refinancing, your bonus and RSU income can be an asset if handled correctly.

Speak to us today for a confidential conversation about how to structure your mortgage strategy around your full earning potential.