A non-conforming loan (also called a specialist loan or alternative loan) is a home loan designed for borrowers who don’t meet the standard lending criteria of mainstream banks and lenders. While traditional lenders follow strict policies around income verification, credit history, and employment type, non-conforming lenders take a more flexible, common-sense approach – assessing your overall financial situation and ability to repay rather than rigidly applying standard criteria.
These loans provide genuine pathways to home ownership or investment for people with unique circumstances that don’t fit the traditional lending box.
Non-conforming lenders take a different approach to assessing your application:
Non-conforming lenders accept various ways to verify your income:
Non-conforming lenders consider various credit issues that would typically result in mainstream rejections:
For self-employed borrowers who can't provide full tax returns. Income verified through accountant declarations, BAS statements, or business bank statements.
For borrowers with past credit issues now resolved or improving. Focus on current capacity to repay rather than past mistakes.
Income assessed based on 3-12 months of bank statements showing regular deposits and cash flow, rather than traditional income documentation.
Lending decision based primarily on property value and equity rather than income. Suitable for asset-rich, income-poor situations.
For borrowers earning income overseas or expats working in Australia. Income verified through foreign payslips, contracts, and bank statements.
For borrowers who almost meet mainstream criteria but fall slightly short - perhaps minor credit issues or slightly lower deposit.
Short-term finance while you resolve issues and qualify for mainstream refinancing (typically 1-2 years).
While higher than mainstream rates, non-conforming loans are still significantly cheaper than unsecured alternatives and provide access to home ownership.
Non-conforming lenders typically require larger deposits than mainstream lenders:
The more complex your situation or credit history, the higher the deposit requirement. However, this is still achievable compared to saving 100% to buy without finance.
Non-conforming loans often have fewer features than standard home loans:
Non-conforming loans provide essential access but require careful consideration:
Interest rates are significantly higher, increasing your total loan cost and monthly repayments.
Plan how and when you’ll refinance to mainstream lending to minimise time in higher-rate loans.
Check whether early refinancing incurs penalties.
Depending on your situation, you may provide:
Non-conforming loans are particularly valuable for:
A non-conforming loan might be right for you if:
Don’t let non-traditional circumstances prevent you from achieving property ownership. Non-conforming loans exist specifically to help people like you. Get in touch today for a confidential, no-obligation discussion about your situation and discover how we can help you secure the finance you need.
Your past doesn’t have to determine your future. Let’s work together to make your property goals a reality.
We deliver personalised, high quality lending solutions.