Self-Employed & Non-Bank Loans
Flexible mortgage options for business owners, contractors, and anyone the banks find “too hard.”
Why This Matters
Being self-employed shouldn’t make getting a home loan harder — but banks often make it feel that way. If your income fluctuates, your financials show write-offs, or you’re a contractor without tidy payslips, the lending process becomes frustrating fast. That’s where we step in.
At Best Mortgages, we specialise in helping self-employed Kiwis, sole traders, company directors, freelancers, commission workers, and anyone with non-traditional income. We know how to present your application so lenders understand your true earning power — not just your taxable income. We work with both banks and non-bank lenders who are far more flexible with income verification, alternate documentation, profit add-backs, GST returns, and cashflow patterns.
If your bank has declined you, or you simply don’t fit inside their narrow policies, we’ll find a lender who sees the full picture. Whether you need a standard home loan, refinance, top-up, or investment lending, we structure your file the right way from the start. No judgement. No obstacles. Just solutions.
What We Do For You
Loan Negotiation
We compare offers from multiple lenders and negotiate the best terms — so you don’t have to chase banks.
Application Support
We help you complete all paperwork, gather documents, and deal with lender requirements from start to finish.
Rate & Structure Comparison
We find the loan structure that fits your goals — not just the lowest rate.
KiwiSaver & Deposit Help
We’ll guide you through using KiwiSaver or applying for First Home Grants in the smartest way possible.
Specialist Lending
Self-employed? Low deposit? Credit hiccups? We find flexible options where banks say no.
Ongoing Support
You get real advice, regular updates, and personal support — even after you’re approved.
Case Study: Self-Employed Approval Win in Bethlehem
Jared runs a small painting business in Bethlehem. His income was strong, but because his accountant had minimised profit for tax purposes, his bank said he didn’t qualify. He came to us stressed and worried he’d miss out on the property he wanted.
We reviewed two years of financials, added back non-cash expenses, normalised irregular income, and prepared a file that clearly showed his true affordability. We then matched him with a non-bank lender who specialises in self-employed applicants and secured an approval within 72 hours. Jared purchased his home in Matua and later refinanced back to a bank 18 months later at a sharper rate.
Here’s How It Works
We keep things simple and stress-free. Our process is designed to help you move forward with confidence — no bank speak, no wasted time.
We analyse your financials, GST returns, cashflow, and add-backs to calculate your real borrowing power.
We gather exactly what each lender requires — no guesswork, no overwhelm.
We compare bank and non-bank options to find the right fit for your income structure.
From approval to refinancing later, we stay with you long-term — not just one transaction.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I get a home loan if I’m newly self-employed?
Yes — some lenders will consider applicants with less than 12 months in business. Others want 1–2 years of financials. We match you with the right lender for your stage.
What documents do I need as a self-employed borrower?
Usually GST returns, bank statements, financials, or accountant letters. Non-bank lenders can use alternate documents if your financials aren’t perfect.
Do non-bank lenders charge higher interest rates?
Sometimes slightly higher, but often worth it to secure approval. Many clients refinance back to a bank within 12–24 months once their financials improve.
Can I still get approved if my taxable income looks low?
Yes. We calculate add-backs like depreciation, one-off expenses, retained earnings, and cashflow to show your true affordability.
Do you help if I’m a contractor or earn commission?
Absolutely. We regularly help contractors, tradies, commission-based earners, and freelancers across Tauranga and NZ get approved with flexible lenders.
Ready for a lender who understands how you really earn?
Let’s assess your income properly — and find the right home loan without the bank hassle.
Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing for a better deal, or planning your next investment move, now’s the perfect time to get expert advice. Our friendly team at Best Mortgages is based right here in Tauranga and helps Kiwis across the Bay of Plenty make sense of these market shifts. We speak plain English (and a bit of Kiwi slang when needed) and work for you – not the banks – to find the right solution.
Ready to explore your options? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation chat and we’ll walk you through the latest rates, rules, and opportunities tailored to your goals. Let’s turn those property dreams into reality this spring – we’re only a phone call or coffee catch-up away. See our reviews to know why we are called the best. Also stay up to date with our latest news for the best tips and advice.
Best Mortgages — Operated by Ewald Biesenbach (FSP 320426) under The Best Limited (FSP 724451 – NZBN 9429043352067). Licensed under the Financial Services Legislation Act 2019.
