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Do you know what documentation you need to get hold of a mortgage if you are a self certified borrower? Do you know how much money you will need? If you don't know what you need to get accepted for a self cert home loan then you need to talk to a mortgage adviser.

It's very difficult to get anywhere anymore without reams of documentation and paperwork when it comes to finances – even to open a bank account you need to have numerous official statements and documents. So imagine the problems that could come from taking out a self cert mortgage?

Some lenders will demand to see accountant's letters, some will not allow online tax forms. Some will want you to have at least 35% of the house's worth as a down payment, and some will not accept someone without a PAYE at all. There are hundreds more caveats and details that come along with such a complicated mortgage and a normal person simply cannot meet all the demands without some help.

A mortgage adviser can help. A mortgage adviser has years of experience in dealing with lenders and self cert mortgages. They will be able to tell you exactly what you need to get accepted, what you need to have saved and what you need to say to the bank or the building society lending you the mortgage.

Self cert mortgages are very tough to get hold of in 2009, and any tiny detail that isn't just right will mean a no from the lender. So don't let details get in the way, and seek out some professional advice and make sure your application gets to the top of the list.

Keep up with the latest news and comments on Self Employed Mortgages at the Self Cert Mortgage Blog