Lenders usually let you borrow up to around 80 percent of your home value before lenders mortgage insurance applies. Your usable equity is roughly that 80 percent figure minus what you still owe, subject to your income supporting the larger loan.
Written by Ross McFarlane, Licensed Mortgage Broker (Credit Representative 526725). About the authorTwo limits apply at once. The property sets a ceiling, often around 80 percent of value, and your income has to service the bigger loan. People often focus only on the property and forget the serviceability test. A broker can run both at once so you know your real accessible figure, not just the theoretical one.
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Last reviewed: June 2026
General information only. This page provides general information about home loans and is not financial or credit advice, a quote, or a guarantee, and your personal circumstances have not been considered. Lending policies, interest rates, fees and eligibility vary by lender and change over time. Always confirm your own situation with a licensed mortgage broker or lender before acting. Ross McFarlane (Credit Representative 526725) is an authorised Credit Representative of Australian Associated Advisers Pty Ltd t/a Keylend, Australian Credit Licence 392169.