Affordability

Why lender affordability differs from online estimates

Income multiples are only a starting point; commitments and criteria matter too.

9 min readUpdated

Models use different assumptions

Lenders assess income, committed spending, household circumstances and potential rate changes using their own models. The same applicants can therefore receive different results.

Income is not always treated equally

Overtime, bonus, commission and self-employed income may be averaged or discounted. Evidence requirements and acceptable sources vary.

Treat calculators as illustrations

Online estimates help with early planning but are not lending decisions. A full application also considers credit history, property acceptability and verification.