Take the stress out of applying for a home loan with a little preparation. Here are a few things you can expect to encounter when seeking loan approval.

Whether you are applying for your first or fourth loan, the process can seem overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be.

By familiarising yourself with some of the common home loan requirements and terms, you will immediately feel more confident when applying for your next loan.

ID check

Firstly, you will need photographic proof of identity – a driver’s licence, passport or proof of age card will suffice. You will also need secondary documentation, such as a Medicare card, rates notice or utility bills that are no more than three months old.

Most lenders will be looking for as much information as possible, so it’s not a bad idea to provide as many of these documents as you have available. It would also be good to have your IDs certified as some lenders may require this.

Income suitability

When determining your borrowing capacity, lenders will request documents outlining your financial situation. This will include payslips, bank statements and written references from your current employer.

Assets and liabilities

Be prepared to declare everything you own and any outstanding debt you have at the time of application.

This information will go a long way to determining your borrowing capacity, as well as providing lenders with peace of mind, should you find yourself unable to repay the loan.

Remember to provide bank statements, any savings accounts and term deposits, as well as details on any current liabilities or financial obligations – these might include Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) statements, credit card statements and other repayment records.

Establishing your expenses

Your ability to meet monthly loan repayments is paramount for lenders, so be prepared to outline all your current expenses.

Instead of plucking numbers from the air, make a list of your monthly outgoings. Your list should include everything from rent, utility bills and travel expenses to gym memberships and leisure activities.

This will not only help your lender evaluate your loan application, it will also give you a good indication of what you can realistically afford.

While you may encounter some troubles along the way, coming prepared when applying for a loan can make the whole process run a lot smoother.

If you are unsure of what is required, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.