If you’re a tradesperson living or working on Sydney’s North Shore, you’ve likely thought about buying a home or investment property. Whether you’re a carpenter, electrician, plumber, or builder, you’ve got strong income potential—but banks can still be picky when it comes to self-employed income.

The good news is that home loans for tradies North Shore Sydney are more achievable than ever in 2025, if you prepare the right way. Let’s break down how you can qualify, where to buy, and what lenders are really looking for. And with North Shore house prices averaging $2.3 million in 2025, according to SQM Research, it pays to approach things smartly.

Let's get started.

Why Do Lenders Hesitate With Tradies?

Even if your income is solid, lenders sometimes hesitate if your paperwork doesn’t clearly show it. That’s especially true for sole traders or contractors who rely on invoicing.

• Many tradies invoice clients instead of earning PAYG wages
• Income can vary with seasons or contracts
• Poor bookkeeping or missing tax returns can raise red flags
  
  
  

What Documents Do Tradies Need for a Home Loan?

Whether you’re self-employed or on wages, your goal is to prove stable and sufficient income. You’ll need to be a little more organised than your 9-to-5 mates—but it’s doable.

• Two years of personal and business tax returns
• BAS statements if you’re GST registered
• ATO Notice of Assessment
• Business bank statements
• An accountant’s letter confirming your income
  
  
  

Can You Borrow More as a Self-Employed Tradie?

Yes—if you’ve got solid financial records. Some lenders may even offer higher borrowing limits if your income has been consistent or rising over the last two years.

• A clean credit report and strong income history boost borrowing power
• You may qualify for full-doc loans if you’ve lodged two years of returns
• Low-doc or alt-doc options are available if paperwork is limited

Are There Home Loan Types Designed for Tradies?

Tradies often benefit from loan products that offer flexibility. Whether you're investing, buying your first home, or upgrading, the right loan structure can save you time and money.

• Offset accounts help reduce interest
• Split loans offer rate certainty and flexibility
• Interest-only periods can support cash flow
• Redraw facilities let you access extra repayments
  
  
  

Can You Get a Loan With Less Than 20% Deposit?

Yes, you can. And if you’re a first-time buyer or have consistent income, you might not even need to pay Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

• 10% deposit is often accepted with LMI
• 5% deposit possible under the First Home Guarantee
• LMI waivers may apply for high-income or skilled trade roles
  
  
  

What Government Support Is Available for Tradies?

As a tradie, you’re eligible for the same government support as other buyers—if you meet the income and property thresholds. For up-to-date information, check NHFIC.gov.au.

• First Home Owner Grant (NSW) – $10,000 for new builds
• First Home Guarantee – Buy with 5% deposit and no LMI
• Stamp Duty Exemptions/Concessions – For eligible homes under value caps

Where Are Tradies Buying in the North Shore?

You probably want a balance of lifestyle, workshop space, and access to job sites. The North Shore offers a mix of leafy suburbs, central hubs, and tradie-friendly blocks.

• Hornsby – affordable and close to transport
• Lane Cove – central and residential
• Chatswood – for investors or duplex opportunities
• St Ives – great family homes with garages or sheds
• Artarmon – access to the city and workshops

How Can You Improve Your Chances of Loan Approval?

Getting approved is all about showing you’re in control of your finances. That means keeping things clean, organised, and declared. Don’t leave it to chance.

• Lodge all tax returns on time
• Separate business and personal expenses
• Keep business bank accounts tidy
• Avoid applying for credit just before your loan
• Use a broker who understands tradie income

What If You’ve Just Started Your Trade Business?

You can still get a loan—especially if you’ve been working in the same industry before going out on your own. Some lenders will accept just 1 year of financials.

• At least 12 months in business
• Industry experience beforehand helps
• Show growing income and clean finances
• Provide solid bank statements or BAS
  
  
  

Why Work With a Local North Shore Mortgage Broker?

The property market on the North Shore is competitive. You need more than just a good income—you need strategy. That’s where a local mortgage broker can help.

• We know lender policies for self-employed tradies
• We work with lenders who don’t penalise ABN income
• We know which banks offer low-deposit or LMI-free deals
• We understand the local property trends across suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can tradies get home loans on Sydney’s North Shore?
Yes, with the right financial documents and support, tradies can qualify for home loans even with ABN or contract income.

What documents do self-employed tradies need for a home loan?
You’ll need two years of tax returns, BAS, bank statements, and possibly a letter from your accountant.

Can I get a home loan if I’ve just started my trade business?
Yes, some lenders will accept one year of business income if your experience and income are solid.

What deposit do I need as a tradie?
Most lenders accept 10% deposits, and 5% may be enough under the First Home Guarantee if you're eligible.

Do tradies pay higher interest rates?
Not if you apply correctly. With full documentation and stable income, you can access competitive rates like any PAYG borrower.

Are low-doc or alt-doc loans good for tradies?
Yes, if you don’t have full tax returns. These options use BAS or business bank statements instead.

How can a mortgage broker help tradies?
We prepare your documents, match you with tradie-friendly lenders, and manage the entire process to reduce stress.

Summary: Ready to Secure a Home Loan as a Tradie?

You’re building a solid future through your trade - now it’s time to turn that into a home. Whether you're self-employed, on ABN, or working PAYG, you absolutely have options. The key is to work with a broker who understands the nuances of tradie income and can present your finances the right way. Lenders are out there who want your business, you just need help finding them.

At Sabea Financial, we specialise in home loans for tradies North Shore Sydney. We’ll walk you through the process, organise your documents, and negotiate the right loan for your situation. You focus on the job, we’ll handle the finance.

📞 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.