What Are Low Deposit Home Loans?

Understanding Low-Deposit Home Loans
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Low deposit home loans are designed to help buyers enter the property market with a smaller upfront deposit—typically ranging from 5% to 10% of the property’s value—rather than the recommended 20% deposit that most lenders require. These loans offer a practical solution for buyers who have a steady income and a good credit profile but haven’t yet saved a large deposit, making homeownership more accessible sooner.

While traditional home loans require significant savings to meet deposit requirements, low-deposit home loans allow buyers to borrow a higher percentage of the property’s value. In many cases, this means borrowing up to 90-95% of the purchase price. Lenders may require borrowers to pay the Lender’s Mortgage Insurance (LMI) if the deposit is below 20%, which protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on the loan.

At Smartfinn Advisors, we specialise in guiding clients through the process of securing low-deposit loans, offering personalised advice and personalised loan solutions to meet their financial needs.

How to Qualify for a Low-Deposit Home Loan

Eligibility for Low Deposit Loans
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Qualifying for a low-deposit home loan is possible for many buyers, but lenders typically have specific requirements to ensure the borrower is at a good financial risk. Here are the main factors that determine eligibility:

Good Credit Score

A solid credit score is essential for securing a low-deposit loan. Lenders need assurance that you can manage loan repayments despite the smaller deposit. The higher your credit score, the better the loan terms you’re likely to receive.
Lenders look for borrowers with a consistent and reliable income to ensure that they can comfortably manage the loan repayments. Providing proof of stable employment and income history is key to qualifying for a low-deposit loan.
If your deposit is less than 20%, most lenders will require you to pay LMI, which protects them in case of default. Although this adds to your loan costs, it allows you to secure a loan with a lower deposit. Some borrowers may qualify for exemptions from LMI, especially first-time homebuyers.

Some buyers can qualify for a low-deposit loan with the help of a guarantor, typically a family member. The guarantor provides security by using their property as collateral, which may reduce the lender’s risk and allow you to avoid LMI.

First-time buyers may be eligible for government schemes such as the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS), which allows eligible buyers to secure a home loan with as little as a 5% deposit without paying LMI. Additional grants and concessions may also be available depending on your location.
FAQS

How much deposit do I need for a low-deposit home loan?

Most low-deposit home loans require a deposit of at least 5% of the property’s value. If your deposit is less than 20%, you may be required to pay Lender’s Mortgage Insurance (LMI) to cover the lender’s risk.
LMI is a type of insurance that protects the lender if you default on your loan. it is usually required when your deposit is less than 20% of the property’s value. The cost of LMI can be added to your loan amount, but some buyers, such as first-time homebuyers, may qualify for exemptions through government schemes or by using a guarantor.

Yes, in some cases. If you qualify for the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS), you may be able to secure a home loan with a 5% deposit without paying LMI. Another option is to have a guarantor who can use their property as security for the loan, eliminating the need for LMI.

Some risks include higher monthly repayments due to borrowing a larger loan amount, the potential for higher interest rates, and the need to pay LMI if your deposit is under 20%. If property values fall, you could face negative equity, where the loan amount is higher than the property’s current value.
It is more difficult to secure a low deposit loan with a poor credit score, as lenders view it as a higher risk. If you have a guarantor or meet other strong criteria (like stable income), there may be options available. Smartfinn Advisors can work with you to explore your possibilities and strengthen your application.
To apply for a low-deposit home loan, you’ll need to provide documentation such as proof of income, credit history, and savings. We can assist with the pre-approval process, helping you gather the necessary documents and present your financial profile to lenders for the highest chance of approval.
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