Getting a Mortgage When You’re Self-Employed: What You Need to Know
Date 11 Sep 2025
If you’re self-employed, this one’s for you. Getting a mortgage can seem more complicated than it does for salaried employees – but with the right help, it’s often easier than you think.
Why It’s Different for the Self-Employed
In New Zealand, banks want to see that your income is steady and sustainable. For PAYE employees, that’s simple – a couple of payslips usually does the job. But for self-employed clients, the process is more involved.
Most lenders will ask for:
- At least two years of financial statements
- Filed tax returns
- Business bank statements to show cashflow
These documents help the bank assess your ability to service a mortgage.
The Challenge of Self-Employed Income
If you run your own business, you know income isn’t always straightforward. You may reinvest profits into growth, claim legitimate expenses to reduce tax, or have income that fluctuates from month to month. On paper, that can sometimes make your income look lower than it really is.
This is where expert guidance matters. At The Mortgage Hub, we help present your financials in the best light. We explain add-backs (like depreciation or one-off costs), highlight consistent drawings, and demonstrate the true strength of your business to the bank.
Why Choice Matters
Not all banks look at self-employed clients the same way. Some are stricter, while others are more flexible. The difference could be the deciding factor between approval and decline – or between a higher and lower interest rate.
That’s why choice matters. We compare multiple lenders, match you with the one most open to your situation, and structure the loan so repayments fit your lifestyle and long-term goals.
The Good News
Plenty of self-employed Kiwis buy homes every single day. The process is simply more complex – but with the right guidance, it’s entirely achievable.
With us in your corner, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
How The Mortgage Hub Helps
When you’re self-employed, we:
- Review your numbers and give you a realistic assessment of what you can borrow
- Explain the fine print so you know what lenders will be looking for
- Shop around to find the lender who best fits your situation
- Structure your loan so repayments are manageable, not stressful
- Guide you step-by-step through the process, taking the complexity out of the journey
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re self-employed and not sure where to begin, let’s review your numbers and map out a clear path to home ownership.
Contact us today at [email protected] or send us a DM.
Check out our video here for a quick overview of how we help self-employed Kiwis turn their home ownership goals into reality.
With the right support, what feels complicated now could be much simpler than you think.
What else is happening in the market?
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