Buying a home while working fly-in fly-out (FIFO) can feel like navigating a maze - especially if lenders don’t quite understand your income setup. If you’re a FIFO worker living in or looking to buy property in North Shore Sydney, the good news is: you’ve got options.

At Sabea Financial, we specialise in helping local residents and FIFO professionals just like you get approved for the right home loan, without the runaround. With North Shore’s median house price now sitting at $2.3 million in 2025 (source), it’s more important than ever to have someone on your side who understands both the property market and the unique nature of FIFO income.

Let’s walk through the key things you need to know.

What Makes FIFO Workers a Unique Borrower Group?

FIFO workers often face more scrutiny from lenders, not because of income level, but due to how it’s structured. Many lenders view your earnings as inconsistent - even if you’re pulling in six figures regularly.

That’s why having a broker who can explain your income structure clearly to lenders can make or break your application.

Key income factors FIFO workers face:

• Income based on fixed-term or rolling contracts
• Split between base salary and site or travel allowances
• Roster patterns like 2/1 or 4/2 making income seem irregular
  
  
  

Do FIFO Workers Need Special Documentation?

Lenders need extra assurance about your job and earnings. That means more paperwork up front, but it pays off in the long run. Your loan application will be stronger with documents that show both income and job security.

Common documents required include:

• Minimum 6 months of recent payslips
• A current employment contract
• Employer letter confirming your role and work roster
• The last two years of tax returns or group certificates
  
  
  

How Much Can FIFO Workers Borrow in 2025?

Your borrowing power in 2025 will depend heavily on whether your lender accepts 100% of your income—some only accept 80% of allowances or bonuses. With many FIFO jobs paying over $150,000 per year, the right lender can significantly improve your borrowing potential.

Borrowing capacity increases if:

• The full base + allowance income is accepted
• You’ve held your role for 6–12 months or more
• You have a 10–20% deposit and strong credit history
  
  
  

Are There Lenders That Favour FIFO Income?

Yes, and they’re not always the big four banks. Some lenders have more flexible lending policies, and we work closely with them to secure approvals for FIFO workers. We tailor your application so it aligns perfectly with the lender’s income verification criteria.

Features of FIFO-friendly lenders:

• Accept income from rosters and site allowances
• Approve contract-based or remote worker roles
• Offer split loan options and offset features
  
  
  

Is the North Shore Sydney Market Worth Investing In?

Absolutely. The North Shore remains one of Sydney’s most in-demand regions, thanks to its prestige suburbs, excellent schools, and leafy lifestyle. Even in a higher-rate market, prices are holding firm. According to SQM Research, the annual growth rate across key North Shore suburbs has averaged 4.2% in 2025, reinforcing the area's investment strength.

Top growth suburbs include:

• Chatswood
• Lane Cove
• St Leonards
• Wahroonga
• Neutral Bay
  
  
  

How Much Deposit Do FIFO Workers Need?

A 20% deposit helps you avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), but don’t stress if you haven’t saved that much. With the right guidance, FIFO workers can still secure financing with less. We’ll also help you check if you’re eligible for government-backed schemes.

Deposit options available:

• 20% to avoid LMI
• 10% with LMI approval
• 5% under First Home Guarantee Scheme
  
  
  

Can FIFO Income Be Used with Government Grants?

Definitely. FIFO income doesn’t exclude you from applying for government support if you meet the property and residency criteria. We help you navigate what’s available so you don’t miss out on support you’re entitled to.

Government programs FIFO workers can access:

• First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) – $10,000 for eligible new builds
• First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme – Stamp duty savings
• First Home Guarantee – Low deposit options with no LMI
  
  
  

What Are Common Loan Structures FIFO Workers Use?

Since FIFO workers often have strong income but irregular monthly cash flow, smart loan structures can help you get ahead financially. You can reduce your interest and still keep flexibility for future changes in your job or roster.

Popular loan setups include:

• Offset accounts to reduce interest
• Split loans for rate flexibility
• Interest-only periods for lower repayments
  
  
  

How Do FIFO Workers Avoid Loan Rejections?

Lenders can get nervous if your application isn’t packaged properly. That’s where a skilled mortgage broker steps in—we know exactly what lenders want to see from FIFO workers. We prep your file to give you the best chance of approval on the first try.

Key steps to avoid rejection:

• Don’t apply to multiple lenders at once
• Prepare a clean, consistent income history
• Work with a broker who understands FIFO-specific lending rules
• Avoid unnecessary debt before applying
  
  
  

Why Work With a North Shore Broker Like Us?

We’re not just brokers—we’re locals who know both the market and the lender landscape inside and out. That means we can provide personalised advice, right down to your suburb and situation. From understanding North Shore prices to knowing which lender will view your roster favourably, we’re here to make the process simple.

Benefits of working with Sabea Financial:

• Local knowledge of North Shore market trends
• Access to FIFO-friendly lenders
• Tailored advice to match your work schedule and goals
  
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can FIFO workers get home loans in North Shore Sydney?
Yes. With the right documents and lender, FIFO workers can absolutely qualify for home loans in this region.

What documents do FIFO workers need for a home loan?
You’ll need payslips, tax returns, an employment contract, and a letter from your employer.

Are there specific lenders for FIFO workers?
Yes. Some lenders specialise in non-traditional income structures like FIFO and contract work.

Can FIFO workers access the First Home Owner Grant?
Yes, if they meet eligibility conditions including property type and residency.

Is contract-based FIFO income acceptable to lenders?
It can be, especially if the contract has been ongoing or you have consistent employment history.

How do FIFO workers improve borrowing power?
By documenting income thoroughly, keeping debts low, and choosing a lender who accepts allowances.

Why use a mortgage broker in North Shore?

A local broker understands both the property market and which lenders support FIFO borrowers.

Summary: Make Your FIFO Income Count in North Shore Sydney

If you’re working FIFO and dreaming of buying a home in North Shore Sydney, now’s a great time to act. With property values holding strong and tailored lending options available, your FIFO income can open the door to long-term wealth.

At Sabea Financial, we’re your local mortgage experts for Home Loans For FIFO Workers North Shore Sydney. We understand your unique income structure and match you with lenders who get it too.

📞 Call us on 1300 001 755
Or email us on info@sabea.com.au

Let’s help you find the perfect suburb - and the right loan to make it happen.