What else other than salary count as income (mortgage)?

[Marghe87]

We have a family income of around £110K (two salaries). Based on halifax calculator, we could borrow around £415K, because we have high outgoings with nursery fees.
i do get a bonus on top of that of around £6K although it is not guaranteed (but I get it every year)
is there anytjing else that counts towards income, for example tax credit on childcare or flexible benefits cash from my employer?

@Londongent well, we are first time buyers in London with no help from family for a deposit. Our incomes have changed massively over the past 2-3 years which is why we have a decent wage but low deposit at the moment. On top of this we are paying for full time childcare fees, which are very very high but only temporary so hopefully once DD full be in schools, outgoings will decrease significantly. So I think it all depends on circumstances.

Majority of the people I know in London who have not had help from parents, had to borrow the maximum to be able to afford a first home.

This is why I said rarely. If you are confident that your disposable income is going to increase over the next few years then it of course can make sense. You just need to be aware of all your outgoings, eg. Increased council tax, heating bills etc, does the house need any immediate repairs, boiler replacement etc.