Buying your first home is a big step, but securing a home loan as a first-time buyer isn’t always straightforward. Lenders assess new buyers differently from those who already own property, and this can impact loan approval, borrowing capacity, and interest rates. Understanding how lenders view first-time buyers can help you prepare a stronger application and increase your chances of securing a good loan deal.
The Key Differences in How Lenders Assess First-Time Buyers
1. Lack of Borrowing and Repayment History
One of the biggest challenges for first-time buyers is their limited credit history when it comes to managing a mortgage. Unlike existing homeowners who have a track record of meeting home loan repayments, first-time buyers need to prove they can handle the financial responsibility.
Lenders will often look at:
- Credit card usage and repayment habits.
- Personal loans or car loans and whether they have been repaid on time.
- Rental payment history (some lenders now consider rental payments as proof of reliability).
2. Deposit Size and Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR)
Most lenders prefer a deposit of at least 20% of the property value to avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). However, first-time buyers often have smaller deposits, making them higher-risk borrowers.
Some lenders allow deposits as low as 5–10%, but this usually means:
- Higher interest rates.
- The need to pay LMI, which can add thousands to the overall loan cost.
- Stricter lending criteria, with more documentation required.
3. Employment Stability and Income Level
For first-time buyers, job stability is a key factor. Lenders want to see a steady income to ensure the borrower can meet repayments. They typically prefer:
- Full-time employment with at least six months in the current job.
- Consistent earnings if self-employed (usually requiring two years of tax returns).
- Limited gaps in employment history.
Casual or contract workers may find it harder to get approval unless they have a strong financial position or a larger deposit.
4. Government Incentives and Schemes
First-time buyers often qualify for government incentives, and lenders take these into account when assessing loan applications. Some key programs include:
- First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) – A lump sum grant available for eligible buyers purchasing new homes.
- First Home Guarantee (FHBG) – Allows first-time buyers to purchase a property with just a 5% deposit without paying LMI.
- Stamp Duty Concessions – Reduces upfront costs in certain states.
While these schemes can boost borrowing power, they don’t automatically guarantee loan approval. Lenders still conduct their own assessments to determine risk.
5. Existing Debt and Living Expenses
Lenders closely examine an applicant’s financial commitments, including:
- Credit card limits (not just balances).
- Personal loans and car repayments.
- Everyday living expenses such as groceries, utilities, and entertainment.
First-time buyers may be surprised at how detailed lenders can be when assessing spending habits. Reducing unnecessary expenses in the months leading up to a loan application can improve the chances of approval.
6. Risk of Over-Borrowing
Since first-time buyers don’t have experience managing a mortgage, lenders may be more cautious in determining how much they can borrow. A buyer with a high debt-to-income ratio (DTI) might be seen as a risk, leading to a lower borrowing capacity.
How a Mortgage Broker in Melbourne Can Help First-Time Buyers
Navigating the home loan process as a first-time buyer can be overwhelming, especially with the extra scrutiny from lenders. A mortgage broker in Melbourne can:
- Compare loan options to find lenders that cater to first-time buyers.
- Help structure your loan to maximise borrowing power while keeping repayments manageable.
- Assist in accessing government incentives to reduce upfront costs.
Final Thoughts
Lenders assess first-time buyers differently because they lack a home loan repayment history and often have smaller deposits. Factors like employment stability, existing debt, and government incentives all play a role in how much a lender is willing to approve. If you’re looking to improve your chances of securing the right home loan, working with a mortgage broker in Melbourne can make the process smoother and more successful.
