- Home
- Services
-
Professional Loans
-
- About Us
- Calculators
- Location
- Blogs
- Contact Us
Saving a 20% deposit can be difficult in many parts of Australia where property values continue to rise. For buyers without this amount saved, this may present a challenge to entering the market.
If you’re in this position, you might consider exploring low-deposit home loans. These may suit first-time buyers, professionals, or investors who have a smaller deposit and meet specific lender criteria.
Low-deposit home loans are generally known as high Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) loans. They allow you to borrow more than 80% of a property’s value.
In situations where your deposit is below the usual 20%, lenders may still offer a loan, though you may need to pay Lenders’ Mortgage Insurance (LMI) to offset the lender’s increased risk.
Some financial institutions may offer up to 85% or 95% LVR loans, depending on your income, credit profile, and the lender’s specific policies. To understand your potential eligibility, you can contact one of our reliable mortgage brokers.
The First Home Guarantee is a government-backed initiative available to eligible first-home buyers. It is offered through Housing Australia, formerly known as NHFIC.
This scheme provides a limited number of places and may allow eligible applicants to buy a home with as little as a 5% deposit, without paying LMI. The availability and eligibility requirements may change, so we suggest speaking with our brokers to see whether you qualify under current criteria.
Low-deposit loans often require a more thorough application assessment due to the higher risk to lenders. While requirements vary, you may be considered if you meet criteria like the following:
Lenders usually review income carefully to ensure the borrower can meet repayment obligations. Consistent, stable income may strengthen your application.
How you plan to use the funds—whether to purchase a home, refinance, or consolidate debt—can influence how a lender evaluates your application.
The type and location of the property can impact the lender’s risk assessment. Properties in high-density zones or areas with fluctuating values may be subject to stricter review.
A strong credit history can support your application. If there are minor blemishes, providing a larger deposit might help balance perceived risk.
Many lenders prefer to see at least 5% of the property’s value saved over time in your own account. This is often referred to as “genuine savings.”
Some lenders may look at your existing assets—like a vehicle, cash reserves, or superannuation—as part of your financial profile, though these are not typically the main approval factors.
Having a long-standing job in a stable industry can support your application. Certain professions, such as those in legal, accounting, or healthcare sectors, may be considered lower risk.
If your other debts—such as personal loans or credit card balances—are relatively low, this may improve your borrowing capacity. Still, responsible credit behaviour is often just as important as the amount of debt.
Buying with a smaller deposit can feel overwhelming, but there may be lending options worth exploring depending on your circumstances. Factors like income, employment, and credit history often play a role in what’s available.
Speaking with a specialist can help make sense of your potential options. Our team here at Ausfirst Lending Group offers tailored guidance to help clarify what might be possible.
Want to understand where you stand? Get in touch to talk through your goals and see what paths might be open to you—no pressure, just a helpful conversation.
Not all lenders offer low-deposit loans. However, both major banks and non-bank lenders may have suitable options, depending on your profile and the property type.
Interest rates vary depending on factors such as your deposit size, profession, income, and credit history. Some borrowers—particularly professionals with stable income—may be able to access competitive rates even with a smaller deposit.
Some lenders may offer home loans between 85% and 95% LVR without LMI, depending on their policies and your eligibility.
Sometimes, a smaller deposit may result in a higher interest rate. However, this depends on the overall application. Strong income, secure employment, and a good credit history could potentially help you access more favourable terms.
Some major lenders do provide low-deposit loans, although this varies by lender and your financial position. We can help assess which lenders may align with your goals and eligibility. In certain situations, you may also be able to access flexible loan features or reduced LMI costs.
Memberships
Business Information
Ausfirst Lending Group Australian Credit Licence Number: 387366 | ABN: 68 845 798 048
Finsurance Pty Ltd t/a Ausfirst Lending Group credit representative number 414391. Finsurance Pty Ltd is a credit representative of Oshawa Pty Ltd Australian Credit Licence number 387366. AFCA 42404
Your full financial situation and requirements need to be considered prior to any offer and acceptance of a loan product.
Copyright © 2024 Ausfirst Lending Group | All Rights Reserved | Design & SEO by Marketing Agency Pro
