How the home loan process works.

1. Talk to us first

Before you start house hunting, it helps to know what you may be able to borrow and how much deposit you need. We look at your income, expenses, debts and deposit, and give you a realistic price range. It costs you nothing, and it means you can look at the right homes with confidence.

2. Get your documents ready

Lenders usually ask for ID, recent payslips or financial statements, bank statements and details of any debts. Getting these together early saves time later. See our guide Getting ready to apply.

3. Pre-approval, or a live deal

With a deposit of 20% or more, a lender may give you pre-approval: a conditional indication of how much it will lend. With a deposit under 20%, lenders generally don't pre-approve. Instead, they assess a live deal, usually once you have a conditional offer on a property. That's why talking to us first matters: you'll know your likely borrowing before you make an offer.

4. Find a home and make an offer

When you find the right home, your offer is usually conditional, for example on finance and a builder's report. Your lawyer reviews the agreement before you sign, and you complete your checks, such as the LIM and building report, within the time allowed.

5. Loan approval

We submit your application to the lenders that suit you best and work through their questions. Some lenders may ask for a registered valuation. Once a lender approves your loan, you can confirm your finance condition.

6. Unconditional and settlement

Once all conditions are met, the agreement goes unconditional. Before settlement, lenders require building insurance to be in place. Your lawyer handles the settlement, the lender pays the funds, and you get the keys.

7. After you move in

Our help doesn't stop at settlement. We keep in touch and review your loan before your fixed rate ends, so your lending keeps up with your life.