Low doc home loans are a type of mortgage that is designed for individuals who may not have the typical documentation required to apply for a traditional home loan. These loans are perfect for self-employed individuals, freelancers, small business owners, or anyone who has difficulty providing the standard proof of income and financial documents.
What are the Requirements for a Low Doc Home Loan?
1. Proof of Income
While low doc home loans do not require the extensive documentation that traditional loans do, you still need to provide some form of proof of income. This can include bank statements, business activity statements (BAS), or a letter from your accountant verifying your income.
2. Good Credit History
Just like with any other type of loan, having a good credit history will increase your chances of being approved for a low doc home loan. Lenders want to see that you have a history of managing your finances responsibly and making payments on time.
3. Larger Deposit
Because low doc home loans pose a higher risk to lenders due to the lack of traditional documentation, you will likely need to provide a larger deposit than you would with a standard home loan. This can range from 20% to 40% of the property’s value.
4. Property Valuation
As with any mortgage, the property you are purchasing will need to be valued by a professional valuer to ensure it is worth the amount you are borrowing. This valuation will also help determine the loan-to-value ratio (LVR) of your loan.
5. Mortgage Insurance
If your deposit is less than 20% of the property’s value, you may be required to pay lenders mortgage insurance (LMI). This insurance protects the lender in case you default on your loan and can add to the overall cost of your mortgage.
Benefits of a Low Doc Home Loan
While low doc home loans may have stricter requirements than traditional mortgages, they offer several benefits that make them a great option for certain borrowers:
- Flexibility for self-employed individuals
- Quick approval process
- Ability to purchase a property without traditional proof of income
- Options for borrowers with non-standard financial situations
Conclusion
Low doc home loans are a valuable option for individuals who may not meet the strict documentation requirements of traditional mortgages. By providing alternative forms of proof of income and meeting other specific requirements, borrowers can still achieve their dream of homeownership. If you are self-employed or have difficulty providing standard income documentation, a low doc home loan could be the solution you’ve been looking for.