Understand assessable income
Review salary, drawings, company profit and legitimate add-backs without assuming every lender will treat them the same way.
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Self-employed home loans
Mortgage broker for self-employed borrowers
Running a business should not make your home loan options impossible to understand. Chris Berry helps sole traders, company directors and other self-employed borrowers prepare their figures and compare suitable lender policies.
Your options
Present your income in a way lenders can assess
Self-employed applications can involve more moving parts. Preparation helps identify the lenders whose policies better match your income history and business structure.
Prepare the right documents
Identify likely requirements such as tax returns, notices of assessment, business financials, BAS or supporting bank statements.
Compare lender policies
Consider how trading history, recent business changes and fluctuating income may be viewed by different lenders.
How it works
A straightforward path to your next decision.
- 01
Discuss your business structure, income history and borrowing goal.
- 02
Review available evidence and identify suitable lender pathways.
- 03
Prepare and lodge an application supported by a clear financial picture.
Common questions
What borrowers often ask
How many years of financials do self-employed borrowers need?
Requirements vary. Many lenders request two years of financial information, while some may consider a shorter period when other criteria are met. The applicable policy depends on the lender and the full application.
Can business expenses be added back to income?
Some expenses may be treated as add-backs by a lender, but the treatment is policy-specific and must be supported by the financial records. Not every expense will qualify.
Can I get a home loan if my income changes each year?
Potentially. Lenders may average income, use the lower year or apply another method depending on the trend and their policy. A complete review is needed before estimating borrowing capacity.
Is a low-doc loan the only option for self-employed borrowers?
No. Many self-employed borrowers qualify through a standard full-document application. Alternative-document options may be considered when conventional evidence is not available and the lender criteria are met.
Ready when you are
Let’s find your better rate.
Book a free 30-minute appointment with a mortgage broker to clarify your next step.