Finance Hub
Borrowing Capacity
Knowing how much you can borrow shapes every property decision. We introduce you to independent, licensed brokers who assess your capacity accurately, not optimistically.
What lenders assess
Borrowing capacity comes down to your income, your living expenses, your existing debts and commitments, and the buffer lenders build in to allow for rate movements. Two people with the same salary can have very different capacity depending on their commitments.
Lenders also apply their own assessment rules, so your capacity can vary noticeably from one lender to another for the same situation.
Strengthening your position
Reducing or closing unused credit facilities, tidying up spending in the months before applying, and presenting your income clearly can all help. A broker can tell you which changes are likely to make a real difference.
Our role
We do not calculate your borrowing capacity or give credit advice. We introduce you to independent, licensed brokers who do this properly and explain the levers you can pull.
Related reading
- Finance and lending introductions — get an accurate borrowing figure from a licensed broker.
- How to buy an investment property — how capacity fits into the wider purchase process.
Frequently asked questions
Why do different lenders offer me different amounts?
Each lender uses its own assessment rules for income, expenses, and buffers, so results vary. A broker can compare across lenders for you.
Do credit cards affect how much I can borrow?
Yes. Lenders often factor in the limit on your cards, not just the balance, so unused cards can reduce your capacity. Your broker can advise.