Self-employed Home Loans

Being self-employed shouldn't stop you from owning your dream home. At Ferns Finance, we specialise in self-employed home loans, understanding the unique financial structures of business owners and contractors. We're here to make securing your home loan a straightforward process, even without a traditional payslip.

Self-employed home loans, your path to homeownership

For many self-employed individuals and business owners, securing a home loan can feel more challenging than for those on a traditional salary. Lenders often have different criteria for assessing income, which can make the process seem complex or restrictive. However, being your own boss shouldn't mean you can't own your own home.

At Ferns Finance, we celebrate entrepreneurship and understand the nuances of self-employed finances. We're specialists in self-employed home loans for clients throughout Beenleigh, Logan, Scenic Rim, and the Gold Coast. We work diligently to present your financial position effectively to lenders, highlighting your true income and business strength.

We can assist with a range of scenarios, including:

  • Low-Doc Loans: For self-employed individuals who may not have all the standard financial documentation, but can demonstrate consistent income through other means.
  • Alternative Income Verification: Utilising bank statements, BAS statements, or accountant's letters to prove your income, even without traditional payslips.
  • Business Structure Considerations: Understanding how your company structure (sole trader, partnership, company, trust) impacts your borrowing capacity and loan options.
  • Maximising Borrowing Power: We look beyond the surface, finding lenders who are more flexible and willing to assess your overall financial health and business performance.

We partner with over 60 banks and lenders, many of whom have specific products and policies designed for self-employed applicants. This means we can compare a wider range of options to find a loan that genuinely suits your unique financial situation and lifestyle.

Don't let perceived hurdles hold you back from homeownership. Talk to us today to explore your self-employed home loan options and make your dream home a reality.

The home loan process for self-employed

From a quick chat to settlement, here's how we make owning your first (or next) home a reality for business owners like you.

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1

Let's Start Your Home Journey

‍Your dream home starts with a simple, one-minute chat. We'll ask a few easy questions to understand your unique circumstances and goals as a self-employed individual. Then, we'll connect in person or online to discuss your opportunities and next steps.

2

Tailored Loan Solutions for You

‍We understand that self-employed income can look different. Once we know what you need, we'll research over 60 banks and lenders to find specific loan recommendations that best suit your unique financial situation and goals, not just a standard one-size-fits-all.

3

The Paperwork Power-Up

‍Found a lender you like? Excellent! Now, you can relax while we handle the "nitty gritty" paperwork. We'll expertly prepare, sign, and lodge all your documents, getting you primed and ready for that all-important pre-approval, understanding the nuances of self-employed financials.

4

Discover Your Buying Power

‍Once your pre-approval gets the green light, your true borrowing power will be revealed! This amount is valid for three months, giving you a clear idea of what you can comfortably spend. Let the exciting house hunting begin!

5

Securing Your Dream Home

‍After the ups and downs of finding your perfect place and making an offer, it's time to celebrate! While you pop the champagne, we'll diligently track your application and work with all parties to ensure everything runs smoothly towards settlement.

6

Settlement - Your Big Day

‍Get excited – it's time for settlement! Sit back and truly enjoy this moment. We'll keep you informed every step of the way, letting you know when everything is finalised and your lender has released the funds. Congratulations, you're a homeowner!

Explore your loan options & their features.

There are a number of loan types available to you; variable rates, fixed rates, guarantor loans and more, scroll through some of the options below to get a better understanding of what the differences are. We’re here to answer your questions when you’re ready.

Variable rate loan

As the name suggests, the interest rate can change over the life of the loan. This gives you flexibility, but can also leave you open to rate rises. These loans offer more flexible features like unlimited additional repayments, redraw, and offset accounts.

Fixed rate loan

Basically, this is the opposite of a variable rate loan. Your interest rate and repayments will stay the same during the fixed term, no matter what. So no surprises.

Split Loan

You’re able to fix part of your loan, while leaving the rest variable.

Packaged Loan

Professional packages offer discounts on standard variable and fixed rates, the waiving of fees, and in some cases, great deals on other products from the same lender. A packaged loan usually comes with one annual fee for the bundled products.

Introductory Rate Loan

Also known as ‘honeymoon’ loans, these offer a low interest rate for a short period (eg. a year), after which the rate moves to the standard variable rate.

Interest Only Loans

As the name suggests, you only pay the interest on the principal balance for a set term, with the principal balance unchanged.

Guarantor Home Loans

A guarantor uses the equity they’ve built up in an existing property to help you purchase your property sooner. Guarantors could be your parents, parent-in-law or a step parent or grandparents.

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Helpful calculators.

Explore your financial possibilities and understand potential costs with these handy calculators.

Borrowing Calculator

Use the calculator to find out how much you could borrow.

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Budget Planner Calculator

Use this budget planner to help understand your income and expenses, and where you could make savings.

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Extra Mortgage Repayments Calculator

You could potentially save thousands of dollars and take years off your loan by making extra repayments. Let’s run the numbers.

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Honeymoon Rate Loan Calculator

A honeymoon loan can help reduce your monthly repayments for a set term. Use this calculator to compare what your repayments would be compared to a variable loan.

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Income Tax Calculator

The income tax calculator can be used to calculate your net income.

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Loan Repayment Calculator

Use this repayment calculator to understand how much your loan repayments might be.

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Lump Sum Repayment Calculator

This home loan repayment calculator helps you calculate the savings benefits of making additional lump sum repayments on your home loan.

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Mortgage Offset Calculator

Use the calculator to see how quickly you could pay off your loan with an offset account.

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Savings Planner Calculator

Use the calculator to find out how much you could save.

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Stamp Duty Calculator

Find out how much budget you need to set aside to cover Stamp Duty costs and what the requirements are in your state or territory.

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Frequently asked questions.

View our full FAQs
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Are finance brokers regulated?

Yes, finance brokers are regulated to ensure they operate fairly and transparently. In many countries, brokers must be licensed and adhere to specific industry standards. This regulation helps protect consumers by ensuring that brokers act in their clients' best interests and provide accurate information.

Before working with a broker, it's advisable to verify their credentials and ensure they are compliant with local regulations.

Are there differences in borrowing power between Brisbane and Gold Coast properties?

Yes — location affects property values and lender risk profiles. We’ll assess your borrowing capacity based on the exact suburb you’re targeting.

Are there loans for building or renovating in Tamborine?

Yes, we can help with construction loans or renovation-specific personal loans. Even if you’re just upgrading a shed or adding a studio — we can find options.

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Can I still get a home loan in Logan with a low deposit?

Yes! There are low-deposit options available, including First Home Guarantee schemes and lender-specific products. Ferns Finance Brokers can help you find the best fit based on your situation.

Can a finance broker help with bad credit?

Yes, finance brokers can assist clients with bad credit. They have access to lenders who specialize in offering loans to individuals with less-than-perfect credit histories. Brokers can help you understand your options and find a lender willing to work with your situation.

While securing a loan with bad credit may come with higher interest rates, a broker can help you navigate these challenges and find the best possible terms.

Can you help me refinance my current mortgage to a better deal?

Absolutely. We offer free assessments to compare your current rate with what’s available — and if there’s a better option, we’ll make it easy to switch.

Do I have to come into an office to apply?

Not at all! We offer phone, video, and online appointments — perfect if you're in a rural spot or juggling a busy schedule.

Do I need a finance broker?

Whether you need a finance broker depends on your financial situation and comfort level with the borrowing process. If you have a good understanding of financial products and feel confident negotiating with lenders, you may not need a broker. However, if you're unfamiliar with the process or have specific needs, a broker can provide valuable assistance.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your individual circumstances and preferences.

Do you help with house and land packages in new developments around Logan or Yarrabilba?

Definitely. We often work with clients purchasing in estates like Yarrabilba, Flagstone, or Ripley Valley. We can guide you through finance stages tied to construction.

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Do you work with local real estate agents and conveyancers?

Yes — we have a strong local network and can connect you with trusted professionals to make the process smooth.

How do finance brokers get paid?

Finance brokers typically earn their income through commissions paid by lenders when a loan is successfully arranged. This means that their services are often free for clients, as the lender covers the broker's fees. However, some brokers may charge a fee directly to clients for their services, especially if they provide additional consulting or financial planning.

It's important for clients to clarify the payment structure with their broker upfront to avoid any surprises later in the process.

How long does approval usually take in Logan or Gold Coast?

Depending on the lender, approvals can take 2–10 business days. We’ll prep your application to reduce delays.

How to choose a finance broker?

Choosing a finance broker involves several key considerations:

  • Experience: Look for brokers with a proven track record in the industry.
  • Reputation: Research reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge their reliability.
  • Services Offered: Ensure the broker provides the specific services you need, whether it's mortgages, personal loans, or business financing.

Taking the time to choose the right broker can lead to a more successful borrowing experience.

I run a small business in Beenleigh — can I get a home loan without two years of tax returns?

Yes! We have access to lenders who accept alternative documentation for self-employed applicants, including BAS statements and bank feeds.

What are the benefits of using a finance broker?

Using a finance broker offers several benefits, including:

  • Access to Multiple Lenders: Brokers have relationships with various lenders, giving clients access to a wider range of financial products.
  • Expertise: Brokers are knowledgeable about the finance industry and can provide valuable advice tailored to individual circumstances.
  • Time-Saving: Brokers handle the paperwork and negotiations, saving clients time and effort.

Overall, finance brokers can simplify the borrowing process and help clients make informed decisions.

What documents do I need for a finance broker?

When working with a finance broker, you'll typically need to provide several documents, including:

  • Proof of Identity: A government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver's license.
  • Income Verification: Recent pay stubs or tax returns to demonstrate your financial stability.
  • Credit History: Brokers may request your credit report to assess your borrowing eligibility.

Having these documents ready can streamline the process and help your broker find suitable options for you.

What government grants are available for first-home buyers in Queensland?

As of now, eligible first-home buyers in QLD can access the First Home Owner Grant and possibly stamp duty concessions. We’ll check your eligibility and help with the paperwork.

What is a finance broker?

A finance broker is a professional who acts as an intermediary between clients and lenders. They help individuals and businesses secure loans, mortgages, and other financial products. By leveraging their knowledge of the market, finance brokers can find the best deals tailored to their clients' needs.

Finance brokers are particularly useful for those who may not have the time or expertise to navigate the complex world of finance on their own. They provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the borrowing process.

What is the process of working with a finance broker?

The process of working with a finance broker typically involves the following steps:

  1. Initial Consultation: Discuss your financial needs and goals with the broker.
  2. Document Submission: Provide necessary documents for assessment.
  3. Loan Options: The broker will present suitable loan options based on your profile.
  4. Application Process: The broker will assist you in completing the application and submitting it to the lender.

This structured approach ensures that you receive personalised service throughout the borrowing process.

What should I ask my finance broker?

When meeting with a finance broker, consider asking the following questions:

  • What lenders do you work with? Understanding their network can help you gauge your options.
  • What fees do you charge? Clarifying costs upfront can prevent misunderstandings.
  • How will you communicate with me? Establishing communication preferences can enhance your experience.

Asking the right questions can lead to a more productive relationship with your broker.

Talk to us today about your options.

Talk to us today about your options. Whether you're in Beenleigh, Logan, Scenic Rim, or on the Gold Coast, Gwen @ Ferns Finance is ready to provide expert, straightforward advice.

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