Yes, You Can Buy a Home! A Guide to Home Loans for Single Mothers

Can single mums buy a home? With home loans for single mothers, the answer is a clear yes. It's not just possible; it's entirely within reach!

Between unpredictable incomes, soaring house prices, and tight lending criteria, many single mums often feel locked out of Brisbane’s property market. Homeownership isn’t just a dream for many single mums—it’s a path to stability, security, and a better future for their families. 

That’s where Brisbane mortgage brokers at Kelly Brothers Finance step in. With local know-how and access to a wide network of lenders, we help single mums find the right home loan and avoid common setbacks. 

Working with a broker means less stress, more support, and a stronger chance of reaching your homeownership goals. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about applying for a home loan as a single mum. Let’s dive in.

What are Home Loans for Single Mothers?

Home loans for single mothers, or mortgages for single mothers, are standard mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of single-parent families, specifically mums raising children on their own. These loans work much like traditional home loans, but they often come with added support, lower deposit requirements, or access to government schemes. 

Compared to traditional loans, these options are designed with more flexibility in mind. Lenders may consider alternate income sources, like child support payments, and offer more lenient eligibility for mums with limited savings or single incomes. 

While the loan terms are similar, the process often involves extra guidance and tailored solutions for the single mum’s unique financial situation.

Key Features of a Single Mother Home Loan

These loans aren’t just “normal” loans with a new label. They come with features that better fit the life and budget of a single-income household. 

Here’s what you can typically expect:

• Lower deposit requirements – As low as 2% with schemes like the Family Home Guarantee.
  
  
• Lenders may consider government benefits – Child support, pensions, and Centrelink payments may count as income.
  
  
• Access to government schemes and grants – Stamp duty concessions and first home owner grants.
  
  
• Flexible income assessment – Including part-time work or multiple income sources.
  
  
• Support from mortgage brokers – Help understand options and boost approval odds.
  
  

These features aim to give single mums a fairer shot at homeownership in Brisbane’s competitive market.

Eligibility Criteria for Single Mothers Applying for a Mortgage

While each lender may have slight differences, the core criteria are consistent across Brisbane and the rest of Queensland.

Here’s what you’ll generally need to qualify for a home loan as a single mum:

1. Australian citizenship or permanent residency – Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or legal guardian
   
   
2. Stable income – Accepted forms include full-time, part-time, casual work, and consistent government payments
   
   
3. Proof of income – Includes your 2022–23 or 2023–24 NOA, recent payslips, and evidence of child support payments, Centrelink, or disability support pension
   
   
4. Good credit history – A clean credit report strengthens your application
   
   
5. Low debt-to-income ratio – Your debts must be manageable based on your income
   
   
6. Minimum deposit – Usually 5–10%, but can be as low as 2% with the Family Home Guarantee
   
   
7. Bank statements – Typically 3 to 6 months of recent transaction history
   
   
8. No previous ownership of residential property – For some government schemes, you must not have previously co-owned a residential property
   
   
9. Be the primary carer of at least one dependent child – Required for most single-parent-specific programs
   
   

These criteria apply throughout Queensland and are designed to ensure single mums can access fair lending opportunities—regardless of whether you’re buying in Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, or a regional centre.

Home Loan Options for Single Mothers That Brokers Can Help With

Home loans aren’t one-size-fits-all, especially for single mums managing tight budgets. Brokers help match you with the right loan and flexible lenders.

Here are the main options available: 

Family Home Guarantee Loans (2% Deposit Scheme)

Offered by Housing Australia, this scheme lets eligible single parents buy a home with just 2% deposit and no Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). It's available across Queensland, including Brisbane, and applies to both new and existing owner-occupied properties.

Fixed-Rate Loans

These loans lock in your interest rate for a set period (usually 1–5 years), making it easier to budget your monthly repayments. They're great for single mums who need payment certainty and want to avoid sudden increases in living costs.

Variable-Rate Loans

Variable loans often start with lower rates and give you the flexibility to make extra repayments without penalty. They’re suitable for single mums expecting income changes or wanting to pay off their loans faster when possible.

Low-Deposit Home Loans

Many lenders accept 5–10% deposit home loans, especially with a solid credit history and income proof. A broker can help you access these without incurring high mortgage insurance costs or unnecessary fees.

Interest-Only Loans

This option allows you to pay just the interest for a set period (usually 1–5 years), reducing short-term repayments. It can suit single mums who expect higher income in the near future or want to ease financial pressure early on.

Shared Equity Loans

These involve buying a property in partnership with the government or another entity that covers part of the cost. You repay their share later, usually when the property is sold—ideal if your current borrowing capacity is limited.

Family Pledge or Family Guarantee Loans

If a family member owns property, they can offer equity as security instead of a cash deposit. This helps single mums buy sooner without needing a large upfront deposit.

Green Home Loans

Offered by some lenders like Bank Australia Ltd, these loans offer lower interest rates for environmentally friendly homes. They’re useful if you’re building or buying a sustainable property in Brisbane.

First Home Owner Grant (QLD)

While not a loan itself, brokers can assist with accessing the $30,000 grant (as of 2025) for eligible first-time buyers purchasing newly built homes or land packages. It’s a significant boost for single mums looking at new developments.

Each lender may offer unique loan products not publicly listed, and government policies or grants may evolve from year to year.

That’s exactly why partnering with Brisbane mortgage brokers from Kelly Brothers Finance makes all the difference. Our brokers have access to a wide range of lenders, exclusive deals, and the know-how to match you with the right loan based on your income, deposit, and personal circumstances. Call us today at (07) 3847 9450 to get started. 

How to Apply for Home Loans for Single Mothers

Applying for a home loan as a single mum can feel daunting, but breaking it into simple steps makes it much more manageable. Here’s how the process works: 

1. Check your eligibility: Make sure you meet the basics, like being an Australian citizen, earning a stable income, and caring for at least one dependent child.
2. Speak with a mortgage broker: A broker helps assess your borrowing power, compares loans, and connects you with lenders that support single-parent applications. They'll also walk you through the paperwork and available government grants.
3. Organise your financial documents: Gather proof of income, bank statements, tax returns (e.g. 2022–23 NOA), child support payments, and any debts. Clear and current documents reduce delays.
4. Get Pre-Approval: This gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you're serious. It also reveals your potential lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) costs if your deposit is under 20%.
5. Apply for grants or assistance: Your broker can help you apply for the First Home Owner Grant (QLD) or the Family Home Guarantee, which can reduce upfront costs and deposit requirements.
6. Choose the right property: Stick to your budget and make sure the property meets price caps for government schemes. Your broker will confirm if it qualifies—whether it’s a house and land package or a separate contract build.
7. Submit the loan application: Once you've chosen a property, your broker will submit your full application, including the contract of sale and any scheme approvals, to a suitable lender.
8. Loan approval and settlement: If approved, you'll receive a formal offer—review it with your broker or seek legal advice. Once signed, the settlement finalises the purchase, and the home is officially yours.

As a single mum, you don’t have to navigate the home loan process alone. Kelly Brothers Finance specialises in helping mums like you find the right loan—affordable, family-friendly, and stress-free. Chat here with our Brisbane mortgage brokers or call (07) 3847 9450 to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best home loan for a single mother?

The best home loan depends on your financial circumstances, goals, and credit score. A broker can help eligible home buyers, including adoptive parents, find the right option based on income, property types, and available government programs.

How much does a single mum need for a house deposit?

Single mums may need as little as 2% with certain government programs, but a larger deposit (10–20%) can reduce costs like Lenders Mortgage Insurance. The exact amount depends on property prices and your eligibility requirements.

Can a single mum buy a house in Australia?

Yes, eligible home buyers like single mums—including adoptive parents—can buy homes with the right support and preparation. Lenders assess taxable income, credit score, and other financial circumstances to approve a loan.

How much deposit do you need for a $600,000 home loan?

Typically, you’d need 10–20% (i.e. $60,000–$120,000), but government programs like the Family Home Guarantee allow lower deposits. Final figures depend on property price caps and your lender’s list of property criteria.

Can I buy a house with $10,000 deposit in Australia?

In some cases, yes—if you qualify for specific government programs and meet strict eligibility requirements. A cash payment of $10,000 might be enough with additional grants or if you’re purchasing within certain property types and caps.

Can you get a home loan on Centrelink?

Yes, some lenders accept Centrelink payments as part of your taxable income, especially if combined with wages. Approval depends on your credit score, financial circumstances, and advice from a mortgage broker or financial advisor.

Wrapping Up

Buying a home as a single mum in 2025 is absolutely doable with the right support. At Kelly Brothers Finance, based in North Brisbane, we specialise in helping single mums across Brisbane and Queensland access the most suitable single mothers' home loans for their specific needs.

We know life’s busy, and making big financial decisions can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer a free consultation to help you understand your options and move forward with clarity.

Start today at kellybrothersfinance.com.au or call (07) 3847 9450 to speak with our experienced mortgage brokers.