How much you can borrow will depend on your circumstances. Lenders have specific criteria, regardless of whether you’re opting for a two-year fixed-rate or a five-year variable-rate deal. Factors that impact how much you can borrow include: How much you earn - most lenders will offer at least four times your salary How much you can put down as a deposit - the bigger the better How much you already owe - other loans and credit cards  How much you spend - for example on household bills or child maintenance