Calculators
How much could you borrow?
A simple, transparent estimate of your borrowing power. Every lender assesses differently, so treat this as a starting point.
Estimate only. This calculator uses a simplified version of how lenders assess serviceability, based only on the figures you enter. Lenders’ actual policies, expense benchmarks, buffers and income treatment vary, and your result could be higher or lower. It isn’t a quote, an offer of credit or a pre-approval. The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information, consider whether it is appropriate for you and seek professional advice. All applications for credit are subject to the lender’s credit assessment and lending criteria. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply.
You may be able to borrow about
$0
Repayments about a month at
How I worked it out (per month)
- Income after tax & Medicare
- Less living expenses
- Less other loan repayments
- Less credit cards (3% of limits)
- Left for a home loan
- Tested at (rate + 3%)
The method, step by step
No black box. This is exactly how the estimate above is calculated.
- 1 Income after taxI work out each applicant’s take-home pay using the ATO’s 2026–27 resident tax rates plus the 2% Medicare levy. Tax offsets, the low-income Medicare reduction, HELP repayments, overtime, bonuses, rental and other income aren’t included.
- 2 Living expensesI subtract the monthly living expenses you enter. Lenders use the higher of your declared expenses and a benchmark such as the Household Expenditure Measure (HEM). HEM figures aren’t published, so please enter realistic expenses.
- 3 Existing debtsI subtract your other monthly loan repayments as entered.
- 4 Credit cardsI subtract 3% of your total credit card limits each month, whether or not you use the cards. Reducing or closing unused limits can increase what you can borrow.
- 5 Buffer and termWhat’s left is the most you could put towards a home loan each month. I find the loan that payment would cover over 30 years (principal and interest) at your rate plus a 3% buffer, then round down to the nearest $1,000.
Want a real number?
Lenders’ policies differ a lot. Book a call and I’ll compare what different lenders could offer you.