Well hang on a second, AlpinePony, fair enough for the borrower to think carefully about taking up a mortgage - but let's be very clear that it's neither the bank's or any of our place to ASSume what the OP may or may not feel post partum. True, SOME women feel differently and decide to take longer, but not all women do. And in fact, I know several women who planned to take extended take off work and got bored after 8 months and went back.
(and can I just point out that Tezbean has not yet told any of us what her maternity package is like? and did no one else take note that she says she has sufficient savings to cover the mortgage anyway???)
I'm very much for people taking responsibility for the mortgages they apply for, and actually think we in the UK have focused too much of the blame for the credit crisis on the bankers, and not enough on the borrowers. Both played a part and I feel no sympathy for anyone who knowingly borrowed more than they could afford and ended up defaulting.
Now that said, Tezbean, why oh why did you offer that information up? At 16 weeks preggers it none of their d*mned business, unless you are actually indeed planning on giving up work and don't have an alternative source of income/savings to cover the mortgage.
It's your right to change your mind. Just as you don't have to tell your employer how long you are planning to take, you don't have to tell your bank either.
(don't lie if asked outright either - BUT - there are plenty of lenders who will not ask. I have taken out several mortgages in my lifetime and have never been asked this question)