For many Australians, saving for a large home loan deposit can be a major hurdle to buying a home. A low-deposit home loan is designed for those who want to enter the property market without waiting years to save a 20% deposit.
This type of loan is ideal for:
- First-home buyers who don’t have a large deposit but have stable income.
- Home buyers who want to secure a property before prices rise further.
- Investors looking to leverage their funds while maintaining cash flow.
With options to borrow up to 95% of the property value – and even 100% with a guarantor – a low-deposit home loan can be a smart way to buy a home with less upfront capital. Let’s explore how it works, who qualifies, and how you can apply.
What Is A Low-Deposit Home Loan?
A low-deposit home loan allows homebuyers to purchase a property with a deposit smaller than the traditional 20%, typically starting from 5% with most lenders but as low as 2% through government-backed schemes. This can make it easier for people to enter the property market sooner.
How Do Low-Deposit Loans Work?
Low-deposit home loans allow individuals to purchase property with a smaller initial deposit than the standard 20% of the property’s value.
This is particularly helpful for first-home buyers or those struggling to save a large deposit due to living expenses.
While these loans make entering the property market more accessible, the borrowers are required to pay Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) – a one-off payment that protects the lender against financial loss if the borrower defaults on the loan.
While a minimum 2%-5% deposit can help you get started, please remember that additional funds will be needed to cover costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

Why Choose A Low Deposit Home Loan?
Saving a 20% deposit can take years. With a low-deposit home loan, you could buy your first home, upgrade, or invest sooner than you think even with as little as a 2% deposit.
Our expert mortgage brokers help customers who:
- Are first-home buyers with limited savings
- Want to beat rising property prices
- Need guidance navigating government schemes
- Are self-employed or have unique financial situations
You don’t have to wait years to buy. Let’s make it happen now (link enquiry form).
How Much Deposit Do You Really Need?
Scenario | Minimum Deposit | LMI Waiver |
---|---|---|
Standard low-deposit loan | 5% | No |
With guarantor support | 0% | Yes |
First Home Guarantee | 5% | Yes |
Family Home Guarantee | 2% | Yes |
Government Schemes That Help You Buy Sooner
You may qualify for one of the following schemes:
- First Home Guarantee: Buy with just 5% deposit and no LMI
- Regional First Home Guarantee: For eligible regional buyers
- Family Home Guarantee: Single parents can buy with as little as 2% deposit
- Help to Buy Scheme: Government shares up to 40% of the home price (pending launch)
Pros And Cons – Is a Low-Deposit Loan Right for You?
Pros
- Buy Sooner with Less Savings
- Access competitive interest rates
- Break free from renting
- Potentially benefit from rising property prices
Cons
- May need to pay LMI
- Lower Equity = higher financial risk if prices fall
- Lenders may assess your financials more strictly
Get Expert Help Securing a Low-Deposit Home Loan!
We take care of the entire application process for you, from checking eligibility to securing approval. All you have to do is focus on finding your dream home!
Let's Get StartedDo You Qualify?
We’ve helped thousands of Australians get approved, even when they thought they didn’t qualify.
You may be eligible if:
- You have stable income and employment
- Your credit score is solid (no defaults or late payments)
- You’ve saved at least 5% over the past 3+ months
- Your debts are manageable, and your financials align with your age/income
- The property meets lender criteria
Ready To Buy With a Smaller Deposit?
Don’t let a 20% deposit stand in your way. Whether you’re a first-home buyer or investor, our brokers will find the right loan for you and support you through the entire process.
Call 1300 889 743 or complete our online enquiry form to get a mortgage for a low deposit loan.
FAQs
Can I Avoid LMI Or Reduce The Cost?
Yes, even with a low-deposit home loan, there are ways to avoid or reduce the cost of LMI.
One option is to use a guarantor, usually a parent, who offers their property as security. This can allow you to borrow up to 100% without paying LMI.
Eligible first-home buyers may also avoid LMI through government schemes.
Some professionals, such as doctors or lawyers, may qualify for waived or discounted LMI with a 10% deposit. In other cases, certain lenders offer LMI waivers if you can provide a 15% deposit, even if you are not in a professional field.
When Do I Need Genuine Savings For A Low-Deposit Home Loan?
Do Low-Deposit Home Loans Offer The Same Features As Standard Loans?
How Do I Work Out My LVR?
How Do I Calculate LVR With LMI On A 5% Deposit?
Do Low-Deposit Home Loans Always Have Higher Interest Rates?
Still need answers? We're here to help!
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