Running your own business gives you flexibility and control — but when it comes to applying for a home loan, the process can feel more complex than it should be.
If you’re self-employed in Brisbane, lenders assess your income differently to PAYG employees. However, with the right preparation and lender selection, securing approval is absolutely achievable.
As a Brisbane mortgage broker working closely with business owners, sole traders and company directors, we specialise in structuring self-employed home loans correctly from the outset.
Lenders generally classify you as self-employed if you own 20–25% or more of a business, operate as a sole trader, are in a partnership, act as a company director, or receive income via a trust structure. This definition applies regardless of whether the business is newly established or long-running.
Even if you pay yourself a regular salary, lenders will still assess you as self-employed if you have significant control or ownership in the business. Contractors and freelancers operating under an ABN may also fall into this category, depending on their income structure and level of independence.
Unlike PAYG borrowers who provide payslips, self-employed applicants are assessed using financial documentation.
• Two years personal tax returns
• Two years business financials
• Notices of Assessment
• BAS statements (in some cases)
• Accountant letter (for low doc loans)
Lenders assess net profit, director wages, dividends and allowable add-backs such as depreciation.
Most lenders prefer two years of trading history. However, some may consider 12 months depending on your industry, financial strength and deposit size.
Require complete financials and usually provide sharper interest rates and stronger borrowing capacity.
Designed for borrowers without full financials available. Often require BAS statements or accountant declarations and typically a larger deposit.
For independent consumer guidance on home loans, visit:
ASIC MoneySmart – Home Loans Guide
Deposit requirements vary:
• 5–10% possible with strong full documentation
• 20%+ avoids LMI
• Low doc loans often require 20% or more
• Minimising taxable income too aggressively
• Applying directly with restrictive lenders
• Not preparing financials early
• Signing contracts before loan strategy is confirmed
Business owners can absolutely invest in Brisbane property. However, lenders may shade rental income and apply stricter servicing buffers.
Self-employed lending is not one-size-fits-all. A specialist broker can compare 40+ lenders, structure income correctly, and improve borrowing power.
If you’re self-employed and planning to buy, refinance or invest in Brisbane, the right structure makes all the difference.
Book a call today to discuss your borrowing options with a specialist.
Yes, many lenders do offer this, however lenders may require higher deposit or attach a higher interest rate depending on your overall profile.
Not necessarily — full doc self employed loans often match PAYG rates.
Yes, provided income is verifiable.
Usually tax returns, financials and BAS statements.
Is a low doc loan harder to get approved? It can require a larger deposit but remains a viable option.
