Envision Finance
Home loans

Low Doc Home Loans

We help self-employed Australians compare lenders who offer 'low doc' or 'alt doc' solutions, allowing you to secure a home loan using business bank statements or accountant declarations.

Whole-of-market comparison

We look across banks, credit unions, non-bank lenders and specialist financiers, then explain the shortlist in plain English.

Answers within one business day

Send your situation and we come back with indicative options, realistic rates and what each lender will actually ask for.

No obligation to proceed

Comparison and guidance cost nothing. You choose whether to apply, and you keep control of the paperwork.

Low Doc Home Loans

Low Doc (Low Documentation) home loans are lender-designed finance products created specifically for self-employed borrowers, contractors, and small business owners who may not have up-to-date tax returns or traditional payslips. Instead of the standard two years of tax assessments, these lenders accept alternative forms of income verification, such as six to twelve months of business bank statements, Business Activity Statements (BAS), or a signed declaration from a qualified accountant. It is important to note that low doc loans are not available to everyone and are strictly for borrowers who can demonstrate a genuine ability to repay through these alternative means. The main trade-off is that these loans often carry slightly higher interest rates and may require a larger deposit (typically at least 20%) compared to full-doc loans. We help you compare the market to find lenders whose policies are most favorable to your specific business structure, ensuring you don't pay more than necessary for the flexibility you need.

When it makes sense

  • Buying a home when your most recent tax returns are not yet filed.
  • Refinancing an existing loan to a lender with more flexible criteria.
  • Self-employed borrowers with complex business structures or trusts.
  • Contractors who have recently switched from PAYG to ABN work.
  • Small business owners who have experienced recent significant growth.
  • Purchasing property when you have large tax-deductible expenses.
  • Using business bank statements to prove consistent cash flow.

Indicative terms

Indicative loan size00,000 to ,000,000+
Indicative max LVRTypically 60% to 80% (rarely 90%)
Indicative rate range6.75% p.a. – 8.50% p.a.
Loan termUp to 30 years
Repayment typesPrincipal & Interest or Interest Only
Income verificationBAS, bank statements, or accountant letter
ABN requirementUsually active for at least 12-24 months
Indicative feesApplication and higher valuation fees

How it works

  1. Business Assessment — We review your ABN history, GST registration, and the type of alternative documentation you have available (like BAS or bank statements).
  2. Lender Matching — Our team identifies lenders whose 'alt doc' policies align with your business type, focusing on those with the lowest rate premiums.
  3. Accountant Liaison — If required, we work with your accountant to ensure any declarations or letters meet the specific wording requirements of the chosen lender.
  4. Approval & Settlement — We manage the submission and valuation process, ensuring the lender understands your business's true earning capacity beyond just the paperwork.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Low Doc and Alt Doc?

In the modern Australian lending market, these terms are often used interchangeably. They both refer to loans where traditional tax returns are replaced by 'alternative' documents like BAS or bank statements. These products are designed to verify income for self-employed individuals who have a clear ability to repay but don't fit a standard bank box.

How long do I need to have had my ABN to qualify?

Most lenders require your ABN to have been active for at least two years, and often you must have been registered for GST for at least one year. However, there are specialist lenders who may consider a one-year ABN history under certain circumstances. We can help you check your eligibility across our panel.

Are the interest rates much higher for low doc loans?

Typically, yes. Lenders charge a risk premium for low doc loans, which can range from 0.50% to 2.00% above their standard rates. However, many lenders allow you to 'switch' to a lower full-doc rate once you have two years of tax returns available, provided your repayment history is perfect.

Can I get a low doc loan with a 5% or 10% deposit?

It is very difficult. Most low doc lenders require a minimum deposit of 20% (an 80% LVR). If you have a smaller deposit, you will usually need to provide full documentation, as mortgage insurers (LMI providers) are generally very strict about self-employed income verification.

What documents do I actually need to provide?

The most common requirements are either the last 12 months of BAS (Business Activity Statements) or the last 6 months of business bank statements. Some lenders also require a 'self-declaration' of income and a short letter from your accountant confirming your business's viability.

Is a low doc loan the same as a 'no doc' loan?

No. 'No Doc' loans, where no income verification was required at all, essentially no longer exist in the regulated Australian mortgage market. You must always be able to demonstrate your ability to service the loan through some form of evidence, even if it's not a tax return.

Start your enquiry

Find a lender that understands business

Tell us about your situation and we'll respond with suitable options, usually within one business day.

  • A response within one business day
  • Compared across banks and specialist lenders
  • No obligation and no cost to compare
Every enquiry lands directly with our finance team.

Submissions are validated server-side before they reach our credit team. By submitting you agree to our Privacy Policy.

Ready to see your options?

Send through your details and we'll compare lenders for you — no obligation, no cost.