When you apply for a mortgage, lenders don’t just check whether you can afford the payments today. They also apply an affordability stress test, which looks at whether you could still manage your mortgage if interest rates were higher in the future.These stress tests are designed to protect borrowers from financial pressure if rates rise — but they can also limit how much some people are able to borrow. Over the past few months, some lenders have adjusted how strictly they apply stress testing. This is partly because:Mortgage rates have become more stable compared to the volatility seen previously.Lenders are competing more actively for new business.Regulatory guidance allows lenders flexibility, as long as responsible lending standards are met.In practice, this can mean slightly improved borrowing potential for some applicants — particularly those with strong income profiles and low existing commitments. Who could benefit — and who might not These changes don’t apply to everyone equally.Borrowers with stable incomes, low debt, and good credit histories may see the biggest impact.First-time buyers close to affordability limits could benefit with the right lender.Applicants with complex income, credit issues, or high outgoings may see little change.It’s also important to remember that each lender sets its own criteria — one lender easing stress tests doesn’t mean the whole market has followed. Why advice still matters Even small changes in affordability calculations can make a meaningful difference to the options available. Choosing the right lender — and structuring the application correctly — can affect:How much you can borrowWhich products you qualify forThe long-term sustainability of the mortgageIf you’re near the top of your budget or unsure how lender criteria apply to you, it’s worth reviewing your options carefully before committing.