Buying a home in North Shore Sydney while on maternity leave can feel like trying to sprint with a pram uphill, but it’s absolutely possible with the right support. 

In 2026, the North Shore’s strong property market and tighter lending environment mean many families face hurdles in securing home finance during maternity leave. Lenders often scrutinise income stability, return-to-work plans, and savings buffers, which can complicate approvals. That’s where a skilled mortgage broker steps in. 

North Shore Sydney brokers like Sabea Financial can help borrowers on maternity leave assess their situation, compare lender policies, and structure their loan to maximise approval and ensure it suits their financial circumstances.

Here’s what you need to know about getting a home loan while on maternity leave.

Can Maternity Leave Borrowers Qualify for Home Loans in North Shore Sydney?

Yes, borrowers on maternity leave can qualify for home loans in North Shore Sydney if they meet lender requirements around income, savings, and confirmed employment continuity. Many lenders assess projected post-maternity leave income and may require documentation confirming an approved return-to-work arrangement.

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Home Loans on Maternity Leave?

Eligibility for a home loan while on maternity leave often depends on a combination of current income sources, future earning capacity, and employment continuity. Most lenders will ask for:

• Confirmation from your employer of a return-to-work date
• Details on any maternity leave payments or other income
• Evidence of partner income, if applying jointly
• Centrelink documentation for government benefits
• Evidence of savings or a financial buffer to cover repayments during leave

In North Shore Sydney, where property prices remain high, lenders may also place more emphasis on your overall financial position. Some lenders are more flexible than others, so working with a mortgage broker can significantly improve your options.

What Types of Home Loans Are Available for Maternity Leave Borrowers?

While maternity leave borrowers may face stricter scrutiny, a range of home loan products are still accessible. These include:

• Variable and fixed-rate home loans with flexible repayment features
• Low-deposit loans, depending on lender policy and borrower risk profile
• Offset accounts to manage cash flow during unpaid leave
• Family guarantee loans, where a family member provides security

Specialist lenders may also offer tailored solutions, particularly if your income is supplemented by government benefits or a partner’s salary.

How to Apply for a Home Loan as a Maternity Leave Borrower in North Shore Sydney

Applying for a home loan while on maternity leave involves a few additional steps, but the process remains manageable with the right approach:

1. Review your financial position

Assess your savings, current income, and projected income when you return to work. This helps estimate your borrowing capacity.

2. Gather supporting documents

Collect payslips, maternity leave income evidence, return-to-work letters, bank statements, and partner income documentation (if joint).

3. Speak to a mortgage broker

A broker like Sabea Financial can match your situation with lenders who accommodate maternity leave borrowers.

4. Compare lender policies

Not all banks assess maternity leave the same way. A broker will help you compare which lenders accept future income or allow a lower deposit.

5. Submit your application

Once the broker structures your loan and you’ve chosen a lender, the application is submitted with all necessary documents.

6. Await pre-approval and final approval

Lenders may take slightly longer to assess applications involving maternity leave, but strong documentation speeds up the process.

What Challenges Do Borrowers Face When Applying for a Loan on Maternity Leave?

Applying for a home loan on maternity leave comes with some common hurdles, including:

• Lower assessed income: Reduced or no income can affect borrowing capacity
• Stricter documentation: Extra paperwork like employment letters is often required
• Higher deposit expectations: Some lenders require a larger deposit to mitigate perceived risk
• Limited lender availability: Not all lenders are maternity-leave-friendly

These challenges can delay approvals or lead to declined applications if not handled properly. That’s why tailored advice and careful lender selection matter.

How Mortgage Brokers Help Borrowers on Maternity Leave Secure Home Loan Approval

Mortgage brokers play a pivotal role in helping maternity leave borrowers in North Shore Sydney get approved for a home loan. Here’s how:

• Lender selection: Brokers know which lenders have favourable maternity leave policies
• Loan structuring: They can design a loan that aligns with your cash flow and employment plans
• Policy access: Brokers have access to lender guidelines not always available to the public

Sabea Financial, a trusted North Shore Sydney mortgage broker, takes time to understand your unique situation, and we advocate on your behalf to maximise your chances of approval. Our goal is to help you secure a home loan that fits both your family goals and financial circumstances.

For tailored loan advice, reach out today to our expert brokers.

FAQs 

Can I get a home loan while receiving paid parental leave?

Yes, many lenders consider paid parental leave as acceptable income, provided you can show a confirmed return-to-work plan.

Do lenders accept future income after maternity leave ends?

Some lenders accept projected income if it’s supported by an employer letter confirming return-to-work arrangements and hours.

Is my partner’s income considered if I’m on maternity leave?

Yes, if you’re applying jointly, your partner’s income can significantly support the application and boost borrowing power.

What if I’m self-employed and on maternity leave?

Self-employed applicants may face stricter scrutiny. Lenders will assess previous tax returns and ongoing business viability.

Can I apply for a home loan before going on maternity leave?

Yes, applying before maternity leave starts can make the process smoother, as your income will be fully counted.

Are there lenders that don’t accept maternity leave income?

Yes, some lenders won’t consider maternity leave income or future earnings, which limits your options without broker guidance.

Do I need a bigger deposit if I’m on maternity leave?

Not always, but some lenders may require a higher deposit as a buffer due to perceived income risk.

Final Thoughts

Securing a home loan while on maternity leave in North Shore Sydney is entirely achievable with the right strategy and support. While lenders may assess income and employment continuity more closely, Sabea Financial's expert brokers can guide you to the right lender, structure your loan for long-term comfort, and access policies suited to your family’s situation. 

If you're considering buying property during or after maternity leave, speak to the trusted North Shore Sydney mortgage brokers at Sabea Financial. Call us at 1300 001 755to get started today.

External Resources

• APRA – Lending Standards
• Services Australia – Parental Leave Pay
• MoneySmart – Home Loans