Buying guide

How much can I borrow for a mortgage?

Before looking for a home, you should calculate how much you can borrow and afford for a mortgage.

Gill South
Last updated: 27 August 2025 | 5 min read
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Before house hunting, it's crucial to calculate your borrowing capacity. A rough guide is your gross salary multiplied by five, but online borrowing calculators provide a more accurate estimate based on income, expenses, and dependents.

Lenders typically require a 20% deposit (10% for new builds) and will assess your credit score. Getting pre-approval gives a strong indication of your budget, though the final loan amount depends on the specific property. A mortgage broker can help navigate different lender criteria.

What you’ll learn:

How much can I borrow for a mortgage?

How much of a mortgage can I afford?

How can I borrow as much as possible?

Regular income earners are treated differently to those that are self employed

Will pre-approval on a home loan tell me exactly what I can borrow?

How can my credit rating affect my ability to borrow for a mortgage?

Author

Gill South Gill South
Business and property journalist