26/10/2026
Ready to buy a home? Before you even apply for a mortgage, set yourself up for success by ticking off these three steps:
1. Know your budget: Take a good look at your income and expenses to work out how much you can comfortably afford in loan repayments. Factor in a buffer for rates going up. A quick chat with a broker or using an online calculator can help you pin down a realistic price range before you start house hunting.
2. Check your credit health: Request a free copy of your credit report and credit score. Make sure there are no errors or unpaid defaults lurking. Paying down credit card balances and avoiding any new loans or credit cards in the months leading up to your application can give your credit profile a boost, which may help you score a better rate.
3. Organise your documents: Lenders will want to see paperwork like payslips, bank statements, proof of savings, ID, and details of any debts. Start gathering recent documents (last 3–6 months) so you won’t scramble later. Having everything ready to go can make the application process much smoother and quicker.
A little prep work can make a big difference in getting that 'approved' decision. By being prepared, you’ll feel more confident and avoid last-minute surprises on your home loan journey.
