Minimum 5% for most lenders, but 20% avoids Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). First home buyers may access schemes requiring as little as 5% without LMI. We assess your options based on savings and circumstances.

Fixed rates provide certainty but limit flexibility. Variable rates move with the market but allow extra repayments and redraw. Many clients choose a split—part fixed, part variable. We model scenarios specific to your risk tolerance and plans.

Conditional approval typically takes 3-5 business days. Full approval (with valuation complete) takes 1-2 weeks. We fast-track urgent purchases and communicate timeline expectations clearly.

Previous declines don't disqualify you. We review why you were declined, address those issues (credit repair, alternate documentation, different lender criteria), and resubmit to appropriate lenders.

Yes, if you have 20%+ equity remaining after borrowing. We structure equity release for deposits, renovations, or investments while ensuring you don't overextend.

Application fees ($0-$700), valuation ($200-$600), settlement fees ($300-$600), and potentially LMI if under 20% deposit. We disclose all costs upfront and factor them into your comparison.

Absolutely. We specialize in self-employed applications using tax returns, BAS statements, or accountant letters. We know which lenders have flexible policies for business owners.