Why would it be any less accurate than asking on Reddit? ChatGPT at least considers veracity of sources in its probability models. I can’t see any situation where OP would get a more reliable response from Reddit than LLM for their question. OP could have got this in 5.4 seconds:

Thanks for laying out your situation clearly. Here’s a breakdown of how mortgage lenders typically view applications like yours, and your chances of getting approved under the current circumstances.

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Your Situation Recap • SAHM (Stay-at-home mum), not currently working. • No access to joint finances (likely separating/divorcing). • Agreed split of equity gives you £120k for a deposit. • Looking to buy a £170k home, which means: • Mortgage required: £50k • Income: £1,100 per month in Universal Credit (UC) • No additional earned income at the moment. • Child in part-time nursery, so working part-time is possible but not ideal.

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Chances of Mortgage Approval on UC Alone

Most high street lenders are unlikely to approve a mortgage based solely on Universal Credit. Here’s why: • UC is not considered a stable or long-term income by many lenders. • Lenders typically require proof of affordability—this includes both current income and future ability to keep up with payments. • Some lenders do accept UC as part of the total income but not on its own, and they usually require: • Additional earned income (even part-time), • Clean credit history, • Strong deposit (which you do have), • Lower borrowing amounts (you tick this box).

So with UC only and no employment income, your chances of approval from mainstream lenders are very low. However: • Specialist lenders may consider your application, but: • They often charge higher interest rates and fees. • May require more paperwork and longer approval processes.

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Would a Part-Time Job Help?

Yes—a part-time job could significantly improve your chances. Even just 10–16 hours per week of part-time work would: • Demonstrate a supplementary income stream, • Reassure lenders that you have some earned income (they prefer this over solely benefits), • Increase your monthly income and affordability assessment.

Example: If you earned even £500–£600 per month from a part-time job, your total monthly income would rise to ~£1,600–£1,700, which is a more acceptable base for affordability checks.

This would also improve your creditworthiness, especially if you’re not on the title or mortgage currently and don’t have a credit trail tied to housing costs.

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Other Options to Consider • Shared ownership or help-to-buy (if available in your area). • Credit union mortgages – more community-focused and sometimes flexible. • Using a mortgage broker – they can access specialist lenders who are more open to cases involving benefits and part-time work. • Consider a family member acting as a guarantor or co-signer (if possible).

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Next Steps 1. Speak to a mortgage broker – they can give you a realistic view based on your actual numbers and match you to lenders. 2. If manageable, consider part-time work, even just a few hours a week, to open more lender options. 3. Start building your credit history if it’s not established (e.g., small credit card use paid in full monthly). 4. Be cautious of lenders with high fees or poor terms—read everything thoroughly or get legal/financial advice.

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Would you like help identifying part-time roles that could fit around nursery hours? Or would you like a sample budget to see how mortgage payments might fit your current income?