Last updated: July 2026 · Reviewed by John Pierre Saliba, Director and Mortgage Broker, MFAA Accredited
Borrowing Power on $150,000 Per Year
On a $150,000 salary, you can typically borrow approximately $825,000 to $900,000. This opens up houses in many Sydney suburbs and most of Brisbane, Newcastle, and the Central Coast. Lend & Loan compares 50+ lenders. Call 02 8046 3933.
Estimates only. Actual borrowing power varies by lender, expenses, debts, and personal circumstances.
On a $150,000 gross salary with no dependants and minimal debts, most Australian lenders will approve a home loan between $825,000 and $900,000. At this income level, you are well above the Australian median and lenders view your application favourably.
The range depends on your individual circumstances. Existing debts, dependants, and the lender you choose all shift the number. At $150K income, the difference between the most conservative and most generous lender can be $100,000 or more in borrowing capacity.
$DISCLAIMERAt $150K, you start entering the range where profession-based LMI waivers can make a big difference. If you are a doctor, lawyer, accountant, or other eligible professional, you may be able to buy with just 10% deposit and no LMI. That can save $15,000 to $30,000 upfront.
What Affects Your Borrowing Power?
Existing debts
Credit cards, car loans, HECS/HELP, personal loans, and buy-now-pay-later accounts all reduce borrowing power. On a $150K salary, a $20,000 car loan can reduce capacity by approximately $50,000 to $70,000.
Number of dependants
Each dependant reduces borrowing power by approximately $30,000 to $60,000. A couple on a combined $150K with two children will borrow less than a single borrower on $150K with none.
Living expenses
Higher income earners often have higher declared expenses, which can offset the income advantage. Reducing discretionary spending three months before applying strengthens your position.
Lender choice
Some lenders are more generous with higher income earners. A broker comparing 50+ lenders can find the one that maximises your borrowing power for your specific situation.
What Can You Buy on $825K to $900K?
With borrowing power of $825,000 to $900,000, plus a 20% deposit, your total purchase price sits around $1.03M to $1.125M. Here are areas where that budget opens doors.
Chatswood and Cronulla units fall within this range, offering strong lifestyle locations on Sydney's North Shore and Sutherland Shire. Newcastle houses are well within budget. On the Gold Coast, you can access beachside apartments and houses in growing suburbs.
Single vs Couple on $150K
| Scenario | Borrowing Power | Monthly Repayment |
|---|---|---|
| Single, $150K, no debts | $825K - $900K | ~$5,030/mo |
| Single, $150K, $20K car loan | $755K - $830K | ~$4,600/mo |
| Couple, $150K combined, no debts | $780K - $850K | ~$4,750/mo |
| Couple, $150K combined, 2 children | $660K - $730K | ~$4,020/mo |
Estimates only. Actual borrowing power varies by lender, credit history, and individual circumstances. Rates and calculations as at June 2026.
How to Maximise Your Borrowing Power
- Close unused credit cards. Even a $0 balance card reduces capacity.
- Pay down personal loans and car finance before applying.
- Check if you qualify for an LMI waiver through your profession (doctors, lawyers, accountants, engineers).
- Reduce declared living expenses by cutting subscriptions and discretionary spending 3 months before applying.
- Use a mortgage broker to compare 50+ lenders and find the one that assesses your income most favourably.
Get a personalised estimate with our borrowing power calculator. For a precise figure across 50+ lenders, call John on 02 8046 3933 or book a free consultation.
