How Hard Is It to Become a BOHO – Business Owner Home Owner
Are You a BOHO?
(Business Owner, Home Owner)
There’s a saying that echoes through family gatherings and Sunday barbecues:
“It’s hard to get a home loan when you’re self-employed.”
Sound familiar? If you’re a business owner, you’ve probably heard this one a few times—usually from well-meaning family or friends who heard it from someone else years ago.
But here’s the thing… times have changed.
In today’s lending world, being self-employed no longer means being sidelined from property ownership. In fact, there are more options now than ever before for business owners looking to buy a home—or their next one.
And no, we’re not just talking about fancy loan products with big price tags. We’re talking about the way lenders view and verify income. That’s the game changer.
Let’s Talk Income (and How You Show It)
If you’re running a business, chances are you have a savvy accountant doing their job—minimising your taxable income so you don’t pay more tax than you need to. It’s smart. It’s strategic. But when it comes to applying for a home loan, it can seem like a double-edged sword.
Because the less income you show on paper, the less you can typically borrow. That’s often the catch, and why so many business owners believe they won’t qualify for the amount they actually need.
But here’s the part most people don’t realise:
It’s not just about how much income you show—it’s about how you structure it.
Every Lender is Different
Some lenders are more traditional—they want to see two full years of tax returns and financials. Others? More flexible. They may accept one year of tax returns, 6 months salary credits, or even payslips if you pay yourself a wage.
Or alternative methods entirely can include BAS statements, accountant declarations, or business bank statements to verify your income.
This is where having the right guidance becomes invaluable.
Because when it comes to lending, one lender’s “no” might just mean you’re not the right fit for them—not that you can’t get a loan at all.
So… Are You a BOHO?
At Indigo Finance, we work with all types of clients, including a growing number of BOHOs—business owners who are ready to become (or already are) homeowners.
We understand how to navigate the complexity of self-employed income and present your case in the best light to the right lenders. It’s not one-size-fits-all. It’s about strategy, structure, and understanding your goals.
Curious about what’s possible for you as a business owner?
Let’s chat. You might be surprised at how close you actually are to owning your next home.
