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
AI

AI summary

To estimate your borrowing power, a simple guide is your gross salary multiplied by five. Lenders will conduct a detailed assessment of your income, expenses, dependents, and savings habits.

A 20% deposit is standard and helps secure better rates, while your credit score also significantly impacts your application. Pre-approval provides a good framework, but the final loan amount is confirmed once the bank assesses 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