Can I get a home loan when I'm self-employed?

It's one of the most common questions I get, and I understand why. When I was running Cockles Café, the idea of walking into a bank and explaining my income felt daunting. Some months were flat out. Some were quiet. And my tax return never quite told the whole story.

The short answer is: yes, plenty of self-employed people get home loans. But the process is a bit different, and being prepared makes a real difference.

Why it feels harder

When you're employed, a lender can look at your payslips and see a regular income. When you're self-employed, a lender needs to understand your business well enough to feel confident your income is stable and likely to continue.

That usually means looking at your business's history over time rather than a single snapshot. It's not that lenders don't want to lend to business owners — it's that they need more information to assess the application.

What lenders typically look at

Every lender has its own policies, but common things they consider include:

• How long you've been trading. Many lenders prefer a track record of a couple of years, though policies vary.
• Your income over recent years. Some lenders average two years, some use the lower year, and some may consider the most recent year in certain situations.
• Your business structure. Sole trader, partnership, company or trust — each is assessed a little differently.
• Add-backs. Some lenders may add certain expenses, such as depreciation or one-off costs, back into your income for assessment purposes.
• Debts and tax obligations. Including business loans, equipment finance and any ATO debt.

Having an ABN isn't enough on its own

You may have seen ads suggesting all you need is an ABN. In reality, lenders still need evidence that you can afford the loan. Where alternative documentation options exist, they generally have their own requirements and may come with different rates, fees or deposit requirements. They can suit some people, but they're not a shortcut, and they're not right for everyone.

How to put your best foot forward

A few things can help, whatever your situation:

1. Keep your tax returns and financials up to date. Lodging on time gives lenders the most current picture.
2. Talk to your accountant early. If you're planning to buy, let them know. They can help you understand how your financials present.
3. Keep business and personal finances separate where possible. It makes your position easier to understand.
4. Know your numbers. Be ready to talk about how your business earns, what changed between years and where it's heading.
5. Talk to a broker before you start looking. Understanding your options early means fewer surprises later.

Where I come in

My job is to take the time to understand your business — how it earns, why your income moved around, and what you want to achieve — and then explore which lenders may suit. I'll explain what each is likely to need, and the trade-offs, in plain English.

I can't promise an approval (no honest broker can), but I can help you understand where you stand and present the strongest, clearest application possible.