Lo Doc Construction Loans: How to Secure Home Loans for Self-Employed Individuals

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Lo Doc Construction Loans How to Secure Home Loans for Self-Employed Individuals Intellichoice Finance

There are over 2M self-employed and independent contractors in Australia. Many of them don’t have ready financials to show when they decide to go for a loan application. However, they can still pursue a mortgage through lo doc construction loans. Your best option is to talk to a mortgage broker.

A broker has the best knowledge when it comes to banks and loan companies that actually accept a low doc construction loan application. They can also guide you as to the requirements needed by lenders to assess your application. The best way to find a suitable mortgage is through the advice of a mortgage loan specialist.

Self Employed vs PAYG workers 


It is quite difficult for the typical Self Employed Australian to obtain a home loan from a bank when compared to PAYG workers.  Typically, PAYG workers only require 2 payslips to verify income. Self Employed individuals will need the most recent 2 years of filed financial records for personals and business.

Financial statements in addition to tax returns are generally not necessary for these types of loans. Lenders will demand some type of data that you could support the loan. For low doc loans, you might be required to give the loan provider with an affirmation verifying your earnings normally certified by an accountant. BAS Statements, Business Bank Statements, or a combination both are acceptable to verify earnings.
What is a low doc construction loan?

A construction loan is a home loan particularly intended to match the demands of borrowers who require funds to construct a new home. These loan types can also be utilized to finance significant home renovation projects.

In contrast to a standard home loan which makes it possible for you to borrow a huge amount of finances. When a loan provider gives a construction loan, it will initially determine the total loan amount you need to borrow to be able to pay a contractor to build your house. The total amount is eventually divided into smaller payments or referred to as progress draws. This allows you to pay for contractor services in installments.

Low doc construction loans are developed for self-employed individuals as well as others who cannot give the regular documents as proof of income.

How to apply for lo doc construction loans?


The application for a low doc loan is easier than an application for a full doc loan. There are fewer documents to put together. Requirements for proof of income through low doc loan is less complicated. You can increase the chance for approval once you learn specifically what’s needed in advance.

The primary documents you can submit to validate your earnings are as follows:


  • 6 - 12 months of Filed BAS Statements. The lender works with a formula of 40 > 60% of sales as revenue (this is dependent on the type of business)
  • A letter from a certified accountant confirming your income.
  • 3 - 12 months Business bank statements
  • Previous tax returns (more than 24 months) combined with current financial statements.


Lending conditions differ among loan providers. You will generally have to provide the following so as to obtain a low doc construction loan:


  • Personal information. Your complete name and contact information.
  • Loan amount. State the total amount you intend to borrow for the construction loan.
  • Loan purpose. While we know it is for construction, specifics are required. Like if the loan is intended for construction only or will it include the land? 
  • Income declaration. Lenders will use this information to validate your ability to make monthly payments.
  • Australian Business Number (ABN). Loan providers will use this to verify that you are, in fact, self-employed and the length of time you are self-employed.
  • Business Activity Statement (BAS). Lenders require you to give a business activity statement (BAS) or a written statement from your accountant outlining your business activities.
  • A contract. A signed set price building contract. This will contain project technical specs and cost estimations.
  • Building plans approved by Council. You might need to provide this document just before you can draw out from the loan.
  • Builders’ license (copy). The lending company will require that you are employing a licensed contractor for the building project.
  • Insurance. Lenders will want to make sure that your contractor has enough protection plans on hand
  • Additional quotes. Estimates will have to be presented for any added work not integrated within the building contract. Example: driveway, fences, landscape


Check with your state or your local government for grants or stamp duty concession.

You can also visit this article for a Low Doc Construction Home Loans Step by Step Guide for Application.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages: 

Little documents needed. Low doc loans make it easy for self-employed borrowers to obtain the financing they require to construct a home. No assessment notices or tax returns, no financial statements.
There is the flexibility of payment. Construction loans are particularly established to help you pay your contractor through the entire construction process.

Disadvantages:

Typically a higher rate of interest if the total loan amount is over 60% of the LVR or property value
Construction loans generally ask for a higher deposit.

It is advisable to seek help from a mortgage specialist to be able to increase your chances of securing a low doc construction loan that works with your needs and budget.